New 2009 Honda Civic [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Honda Civic - What the Auto Press Says
The Civic is one of the most reliable, visually appealing and solidly performing vehicles of the affordable small car class.
The small-car symbol for solid performance and outstanding value, the 2009 Honda Civic also wins praise for its outstanding safety features and high-class cabin appointments, plus a sleek body style that belies its entry-level pricing. Although there are several compacts that offer more comfort or more utility, few cars have captured the media attention as the Civic has for all-around excellence. The Civic is also respected among reviewers and drivers for its fuel efficiency. As recent automotive excesses (we're looking at you, Hummer) fade away, the Honda Civic could be poised to become the automotive symbol for leaner, more responsible times. Recently, the Civic became the best selling car in the U.S, knocking the Ford F-150 pickup truck off its longstanding pedestal for that title in May 2008.
The current generation Civic was named Car of the Year when it debuted in 2006 by Motor Trend and by a jury of automotive journalists at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. It was also a Consumer Reports Top Pick for 2007 (Hyundai Elantra snagged the prize in 2008.) For 2009, Honda has slightly modified the Civic's front end, and added such standard features as Vehicle Stability Assist or 60/40 split folding rear seats for the EX and EX-L trims. But as Motor Trend says, "The biggest news coming to your local Honda showroom will be in the form of two all-new variants, the DX-VP and LX-S. While neither car includes any dramatic changes from the rest of the lineup, both cars offer a unique combination of standard features designed to give buyers more choice."
Civic fans can choose between the four-door sedan, the two-door coupe, a hybrid model, and the performance oriented Civic Si, but this review focuses on the four-door sedan. If you're shopping for an affordable small car, also keep in mind the Honda Fit, which packs in some extra utility.
- "Honda knows how to time things. Just as fuel costs have prompted Americans to say 'Whoa, Mamma Joe!' on their personal appetites for fuel...Honda is ready to receive them with its fuel-sipping Civic lineup." -- Car and Driver
- "Feels like a car in an entirely different class." -- Motor Trend
- "My test vehicle was the EX Coupe, and I would recommend it if you are looking for a great little fuel-efficient car that's affordable, not too hard on the environment, and oozing with style and charisma." -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram
- "Some styling elements are rather odd, such as the minivan-like windshield, snub nose and the dual-tiered instrument panel that combines digital and analog gauges. But the high build quality, sporty driving dynamics, rock-solid reputation for reliability and impressive fuel efficiency more than make up for a few aesthetic quirks. Some may even think of such quirkiness as a plus." -- Edmunds
- "Looks, feels and drives like a car that costs thousands more." -- Kansas City Star
- "Civic has grown into a stylish sedan that, in most respects, rivals the mid-size Honda Accord of just a few years ago." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Civic Performance - NA
Even though several modifications were made to the 2009 Honda Civic's exterior design and cabin features, it still comes with the same powerplant and chassis that caused reviews like Motor Trend to write, "There's a velvety fluidity to this car's every move that sets it apart." Car and Driver says the Civic coupe is tough to beat "if you want a tasty blend of fuel economy, high style, and fun-to-drive." Our full Performance Review gives more details on the Civic's competitive fuel numbers, well-regarded handling and fast-acting brakes. continue
Civic Exterior - NA
Since a major redesign in 2006 the Civic has been one of the sleekest profiles in the small car class, and reviewers say updates to the 2009 model's sheetmetal will not upset its standing. Our full Exterior Review gives information on the changes made to the 2009 Honda Civic's front end, with critics' opinions on the changes. Also check out our Honda Civic Photo Gallery, to judge the new look for yourself. continue
Civic Interior - NA
As the Kansas City Star says, the Civic continues to feature "a surprisingly high level of fit and finish," with "tight panel gaps, an energetic interior design and a high level of standard equipment." But the 2009 Honda Civic isn't the gold standard on utility or space. Go to our Honda Civic Photo Gallery to view the Civic's dimensions, or Continue with our full Interior Review to learn more about the new DX-P and LX-S trims. continue
Civic Safety - NA
With excellent safety scores in federal government and insurance industry crash tests, as well as standard antilock brakes, side air bags and side curtain air bags, the Honda Civic makes a strong impression as a safe vehicle. Click to our Safety Review to read specifics on crash tests. continue
Civic Reliability - NA
Honda provides a basic warranty for the 2009 Civic that's good for the first three years or 36,000 miles, and has a longstanding reputation for high-quality and strong reliability. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn more about the Civic's maintenance package. continue
