Review
Introduction
Whereas the Toyota Prius is selling like beer at Oktoberfest in this time of high gas prices, the Honda Civic hybrid hasn’t quite taken off in the same manner. Perhaps it’s because the Civic hybrid looks like, well, a Civic, whereas the Prius makes a statement that you’re a genuine tree hugger. Funnily enough, the Civic hybrid produces similar gas mileage and is a cheaper proposition, although we have to say that its combination of a 90-hp, 1.3-liter gasoline engine, 20-hp electric motor, and continuously variable transmission isn’t quite as seamless as the Toyota’s powertrain. Still, at 23 or 24 grand with a ton of standard equipment and EPA ratings of 40 mpg city and 45 highway, the Civic hybrid makes a lot of sense nowadays.
Verdict
The Civic hybrid is good enough to drive, although it isn’t as peppy as a regular Civic and is a lot more expensive. Inside, the Civic has a suitably space-age look, although we don’t like the vast acreage between the driver and the windshield and the reflection it causes. Interior room is incredible, however, for what is ostensibly a compact car. The Civic hybrid has decent steering, brakes, and handling, but it’s slow (0 to 60 mph in 10.8 seconds), and entertainment is low on the list of priorities. The premium over a similarly equipped Civic EX sedan also makes us wonder: For the average driver who covers 15,000 miles a year, it will take about six years to reap the fuel saving, according to EPA combined cycle numbers.
Click here to read our full review of the Honda Civic hybrid.
What’s New for 2009
Like the rest of the Civic range, the hybrid gets new front-bumper and grille designs and new head- and taillights. Inside, a USB audio interface is added, along with Bluetooth phone connectivity, although the latter is available only with the optional navigation system. The hybrid now has stability control as standard, and a leather-trimmed interior is optional—which might put off vegan eco-warriors.
Highlights and Recommendations
The hybrid includes lots of equipment, with automatic climate control, power locks and windows, cruise control, height-adjustable front seats, and a 160-watt AM/FM/XM-ready/CD audio system as standard. Pony up more money for a navigation system and leather seating, and it’s possible to turn the hybrid into a very plush green machine. A fully equipped Civic hybrid can near $27,000 with leather and navigation; know that you can get a larger Toyota Camry hybrid or Nissan Altima for about the same price, but you’ll sacrifice 8 mpg combined.
Safety
The Civic hybrid has a full gamut of standard safety features, including front, front side, and curtain airbags on all models, along with four-wheel anti-lock brakes. A stability-control system is standard for 2009.
