2002 Honda Civic: Road Test

FUEL ECONOMY

Among our test cars, two extended-use EX/automatic sedans averaged a combined 30.5 mpg over 15,453 mi. (see Extended-Use Test Update). With more city driving, test EX/manual coupe averaged 26.5, an LX/automatic sedan 26.8. Despite gas-eating performance tests, another EX/manual coupe logged 30.4 mpg, an HX CVT 28.9, and an Si 23.3 mpg. A manual-transmission Hybrid averaged an outstanding 47.6 mpg, also including performance testing. An automatic-transmission Hybrid averaged 39.3 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving. Honda recommends regular fuel for all Civics.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Despite a simpler front suspension design than pre-2001 Civics, coupes and sedans are surefooted and nimble. EX models have slightly firmer damping and the best body control, but cornering lean evident in all models. Tires furnish only modest grip and allow mild wander in crosswinds and along road grooves. Hybrid has electric-assist power steering for outstanding sensitivity and response. Steering on other Civics is a bit light and numb. Si has sharp reflexes, good grip in fast corners despite noticeable body lean and tire squeal. The new Hybrid is lower, has wider stance the rival Toyota Prius, and thus drives much like any other Civic sedan. Routine braking good in all models, but test non-ABS LX showed mediocre control and longer-than-average distances in simulated panic stops. ABS provides surer stops, but shouldn't be limited to Si, Hybrid, and top-end EX.

CONTROLS

Ergonomics excellent in all models. Driving posture low and sporty except in Si, where, surprisingly, it's chair-height. With that and a different dashboard, taller Si drivers may have trouble placing steering wheel so as not to obstruct gauges. Si shift lever sprouts from dashboard instead of console, but is no less handy or positive. Like Insight, the new Hybrid includes a dial monitoring electric-motor assist and battery-charge level, plus instant- and average-mpg readouts. Workmanship sound across the board, but materials don't quite match VW's. Windows on a test LX sedan made a mild scraping sound when operated; test EX coupe had annoying rattle in driver-side door.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

No subcompact has enough width for three adults, but two have adequate head room in Civic sedans. Flat rear floor helps, but leg space tight with a front seat set well back. Coupes and Si are even more confining and require crouch-and-crawl entry/exit.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Minor test-car workmanship glitches and worrisome non-ABS braking dim its luster, but Civic is a clear Best Buy, with a class-leading blend of comfort, refinement, fuel thrift, great resale value, and strong reliability record. The new Si adds extra sportiness and utility to the mix. As for the new Hybrid, it's the least-quirky gas/electric car yet, utterly conventional to drive and amazingly frugal, but what you save on gas isn't likely to repay the higher purchase price.