The Honda Civic Hybrid is a hybrid powertrain version of the Honda Civic sedan, introduced in Japan in 2001. It features a continuously variable transmission and Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system similar to that of the original Honda Insight. Integrated Motor Assist utilizes power assist hybrid technology.
The Civic hybrid was introduced to the U.S. in February 2002 as a 2003 model, based on the seventh generation Civic. Along with the conventional Civic, it received styling update for 2004. The second generation Civic Hybrid is based on the eighth generation Civic, with some styling differences between theUSDM and JDM models. As of the end of January 2009, the total global sales of all Civic hybrid exceeded 255,00.
The Honda Civic is a line of subcompact and subsequently compact cars developed and manufactured by Honda. In North America, the Civic is the second-longest continuously-running nameplate from a Japanese manufacturer; only the Toyota Corolla, introduced in 1968, has been in production longer. The Civic, along with the Accord and Prelude, comprised Honda’s vehicles sold in North America until the 1990s, when the model lineup was expanded. Having gone through several generational changes, the Civic has become larger and more upmarket, and it currently slots between the Fit and Accord.
It was introduced in July 1972 as a two-door coupe, followed by a three-door hatchback that September. With the transverse engine mounting of its 1169 cc engine and front-wheel drive like the British Mini, the car provided good interior space despite overall small dimensions.Early models of the Civic were typically outfitted with a basic AM radio, heater, foam-cushioned plastic trim, two-speed wipers and painted steel rims with a chromed wheel nut cap. As the years went by, it has become much more upscale with options such as air conditioning, power locks, and power windows, leather upholstery, satellite-linked navigation, and a six-speed manual transmission. Initially gaining a reputation for being fuel-efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly, later iterations have become well-known for performance and sportiness, especially the Civic Type-R and Civic Si.
The Civic has been rebadged for international markets with such models as the Hond Ballade and Honda Domani/Acura EL. The Civic platform also served as the basis for the CR-X sport compact, the CR-X deL Sol targa convertible, and the CR-V compact SUV.
As of 2008, the Civic has been the top-selling car in Canada for eleven straight years. With high gas prices and a weak economy in June 2008, the Civic supplanted the Ford F-Series to become the top-selling vehicle in the United States for that month. The 2010 Honda Civic ranks 3 out of 30 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 76 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Civic, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Reviewers agree that the 2010 Honda Civic is a winning combination of substance and style that has deservedly staked its claim as a class leader. It is one of the most reliable, fuel efficient and solid-performing vehicles in the affordable small car class. Although several compacts have more comfort or utility, few cars have captured the media attention for all-around excellence like the 2010 Honda Civic. Unchanged for 2010, it continues to offer the same winning combination of form and function that led Consumer Guide to name the 2009 model a “Best Buy.”
The Civic isn’t flawless. Despite its great performance, excellent fuel economy and impressive list of features, it lags behind certain class competitors when it comes to interior comfort and cargo capacity. For example, the Honda Fit (which costs about $500 less than the base Civic) is well worth a look for those in need of more cargo space. With a versatile rear “magic seat,” the Fit affords more cargo options than the Civic’s 60/40 split rear seats. Those who want a more comfortable interior should also check out the Volkswagen Rabbit, which costs about $1,000 more and doesn’t have the reliability scores of the Civic but, which is well-liked for its cushy interior, smooth ride and impressive power.
Choosing to buy a Civic is the easy part. The hard part is deciding which trim is right for you. The basic Civic comes in both sedan and coupe models and comes in several trims (DX, DX-VP, LX, LX-S, EX and EX-L) which range in price from approximately $15,500 to around $22,000. The Civic SI is performance-oriented trim, which offers 57 more horsepower than the base model, a few more performance options and a starting price of around $6,500 more. The Civic Hybrid has a separate review. The GX is an eco friendly alternative to the Hybrid and runs on Compressed Natural Gas, but it’s only sold in California (and other states that have accepted California’s Zero-Emission Vehicle regulations) and it starts at about $10,000 more than a base Civic.
The Honda Civic is essentially unchanged for 2010, so savvy car buyers may want to consider purchasing a 2009 model. Dealers are under pressure to make room on their lots for the new 2010 models so you may be able to snag a deal on a 2009. Be sure to check for current Honda deals that may be available on a Civic.
Honda Civic
Honda Civic
Honda Civic
Honda Civic
Honda Civic
