2008 Honda Civic: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Honda Civic adds some new models to its lineup. These compact cars come in 4-door sedan and 2-door coupe body styles and include a gas/electric Hybrid sedan. Sedans and coupes come in DX, LX, EX, new-for-2008 EX-L, and sporty Si trims. Also new is the Civic MUGEN Si sedan. MUGEN is a 3rd-party firm that supplies high-performance parts for Hondas. DX, LX, EX, and EX-L have a 140-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. All Si models have a 197-hp 2.0-liter four. The Hybrid combines a gas engine and an electric motor for 110 hp and requires no plug-in charging. It can run on one or both of its power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. Available for sale in California and New York and to fleets is the Civic GX, which uses a 113-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). DX, LX, EX, and EX-L use a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. GX models are automatic only. Si only comes with a 6-speed manual, and it has a sport suspension. Hybrids have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. EX-L models have leather upholstery with heated front seats. The MUGEN Si has high-performance tires, specific suspension tuning, and unique trim. A navigation system with voice activation is available on EX, EX-L, Hybrid, and Si.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, and Subaru Impreza.