2008 Honda Civic: Road Test

ACCELERATION

With either transmission, 140-hp Civics are lazy away from a stop, but have adequate power around town and for highway merging and passing; the automatic is especially alert to throttle inputs. Slick-shifting Si models crave high rpm and respond with terrific acceleration. Hybrids are also slow off the line and demand liberal throttle to build speed quickly. They are able to keep pace with fast-moving traffic. As with other CVTs, this one lets the engine rev ahead of vehicle speed. The hybrid powertrain has few overt vices; system shuts off engine at stops to save gas, restarts instantly--though sometimes with a noticeable judder, and maintains air-conditioner power. No Civic GX models have been made available for us to test.

RIDE QUALITY

Sedans take bumps in stride, with good absorbency and little float or wallow. LX and EX versions are especially stable at highway speeds. Coupes feel choppier on uneven surfaces, but even the firm-suspension Si never jars.

QUIETNESS

Sedans are near top of the class in suppression of road and wind noise. Hybrid's CVT promotes pronounced engine noise in rapid acceleration, but some testers find the 140-hp engine noisy as well. Coupes do not isolate nearly as well as sedans. Si models' snarling engine and exhaust notes are race-car invigorating.

DETAILS

Controls move with smooth precision. Civic's cabin materials are a laudable mix of high-grade plastics and fabrics. EX, Hybrid, and Si have richer trim with a more upmarket feel.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Sedans have decent adult headroom. Knee space is tight with the front seats far aft. Foot space is good unless the front cushions are near their lowest point. A flat floor aids overall comfort, as does the firm, well-contoured seat. Sedan doors open wide for good entry and exit. The coupe's tiny, hard-to-access rear seat is best left to toddlers.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Dynamically, Civic matches the class-leading Volkswagen Jetta and Mazda 3. That's high praise, even if the Honda isn't quite as substantial-feeling as the Jetta, or, except for the Si, quite as athletic as the Mazda. Civic is more comfortable than most rivals, despite being only as big inside as it absolutely needs to be. With its two-tiered instrument layout and some futuristic shapes, the interior is innovative, entertaining even, without sacrificing functionality. What no competitor matches is this Best Buy's particular fusion of reliability, engineering, style, and value Honda brings to this market segment.