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2011 Honda Civic Review
(5 Stars) Still strong at the finish
Reviewed by Internet Auto Guide
Civic is a rolling display of Honda core competencies; smart design, brilliant execution, all in a tidy package. Available in sedan and coupe body styles, Civic boasts the broadest selection of powertrains of any Honda vehicle, with four engine and transmission choices available. Base models receive the 1.8-liter, 140 hp engine and choice of 5 speed tranmission. A natural gas version of this engine is also available. A 1.3-liter engine and 20-hp electric motor paired with a CVT comprise the hybrid powertrain. Apremium sipping 2.0 liter and 6-speed manual make the drivers' choice Si.
When introduced, the eighth generation Civic won our Car of the Year award on the strength of this base covering line-up. Specialty models like the Si still hold up well, but less loaded Civics are starting to fare poorly against newer rivals Ford GM, Hyundai, Kia and VW.
In the twilight of its lifecycle, Civic remains a viable contender in a hotly contested marketplace, but consider holding out until the next generation launches sometime in 2012. ... Expand full summary 
The Range
- Bodystyle: sedan, coupe
- Engines: 1.3L + 20hp electric motor (hybrid) I-4, 1.8L I-4, 2.0L I-4
- Transmissions: 5-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, CVT
- Models (sedan and coupe): DX, DX-VP, LX, LX-S, EX/EX-L, Hybrid (sedan only), Si
What's New
A significant refresh in 2009 updated the Civic's exterior styling and increased the availability of certain tech features, so the 2011 Civic soldiers on unchanged. The ninth generation Civic is rumored to debut in 2011 as 2012 model.
Exterior
An aggressive cab-forward design pushes wheels to the corners to shorten front and rear overhangs and maximize the greenhouse. Although in the twilight of its lifecycle, Civic remains a blandly handsome player in the crowd.
Interior
Civic's roomy interior has a futuristic edge that still looks fresh. Simple controls and excellent ergonomics are a welcome relief within the brand. Base models are quite bare, but premium models come well equipped.
Performance & Handling
Once peppy performance numbers are gradually losing luster as the competition catches up. Base Civics remain a benchmark for tidy driving dynamics without the normal tradeoffs to ride quality. Enthusiasts will exult in the slick shifting, free revving 197-hp Si model, while commuters will enjoy the creature comforts of a fully loaded EX-L or Hybrid (that averages 42 mpg).
Safety
All passengers have 3-point seatbelts. Dual front, front-side, and side curtain airbags come standard, as do active head restraints for driver and front passenger. Brake assist and stability/traction control only available on EX-L, Hybrid and Si models.
EPA Fuel Economy
- DX, DX-VP, LX, LX-S, EX, EX-L (sedan and coupe): 25 mpg city/36 mpg hwy (5A), 26 mpg city/34 mpg hwy (5M)
- Hybrid: 40 mpg city/45 mpg hwy
- Si: 21 mpg city/29 mpg hwy
You'll Like
- The Si model
- Easy ergonomics
- Smooth revving engines
- Zero emission options
You Won't Like
- Lack of stability control in base models
Sum Up
Still strong at the finish
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