The current generation Honda Civic was offered initially only in sedan form, but a coupe version appeared later in the model year, and now finally a hatchback version has appeared. With plenty of trim levels and a variety of body styles, there's a Civic for nearly every need.
The base LX comes simply equipped but leaves nothing out, and includes anti-lock brakes, power-adjustable mirrors, a 160-watt CD/MP3 stereo with Bluetooth, power windows and locks and remote keyless entry.
Coupe models offer an additional trim level, LX-P that adds a sunroof and keyless ignition to the LX model.
EX models add 16-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, an upgraded 8-speaker stereo as well as LaneWatch blind spot monitoring as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Leather seats, steering wheel and shift-knob are optional as are an 8-way power-adjustable driver seat.
The Touring Civic has 17-inch machined alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, a 450-watt audio system that also includes a 7-inch touchscreen that also includes all of the modern smartphone connectivity. Leather seats are standard on the Touring and they are heated and power-adjustable. Dynamic cruise control and dual-zone climate control are also included.
On LX and EX Civics, a 158-horsepower, 2.0L i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine is standard. The LX is the only trim that offers a 6-speed manual transmission. All others come with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The EX-T and Touring come with a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine makes 174 horsepower and 162 lb-feet of torque.
Civic Hatchbacks are also available in the Sport Touring trim. Sport Touring adds LED headlights, heated rear outboard seats, an aero kit and sport pedals.
The new-for-2017 Civic Type R is a performance powerhouse. A smooth turbo-charged 2.0L engine makes 306hp and nearly 300 lb-feet of torque and is only available mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The Type R is trimmed as a Touring model, but Honda added some premium features including 20" black wheels wearing performance rubber, a premium 540-watt audio system and integrated navigation, dual-zone climate control and high-bolster racing-style seats. The Type R's dramatic styling stands out in a crowd thanks to unique spoilers, body kit and a cool 3-outlet exhaust.
Safety takes a strong presence in the new Civic. Of course it includes front and side airbags, but low tire pressure warning, backup camera and stability control are also standard on every Civic. Starting with the EX, a blind-spot monitoring system is included.
Honda Sensing system, is optional across the board. It's a suite of safety features that includes Lane Keep Assist, which will monitor and can even nudge the vehicle back into its lane, Blind Spot sensors and Collision Mitigation that will detect an impending accident and can even apply the brakes if needed.
Responsive And Efficient Drivetrains
Roomy Interior
Standard High-tech Features
Extensive Safety Options
The biggest news for 2017 is the addition of a new body style in the civic lineup. Previously only available in coupe and sedan body styles, 2017 sees the reintroduction of the famed Civic hatchback. With a steeply raked roofline and rear hatch, the new body style looks extremely sporty and modern. Interior room us up for the hatchback with Honda claiming that it has best in class rear legroom, along with heaps of carrying capacity. A late-model-year addition of an all-new Type R brings a new level of performance aptitude to lineup.
The Civic has topped best compact car lists for decades. With its consistent balance of quality, performance and practicality, it should come as no surprise. 2016's redesign further improved the car, with extensive standard equipment, a high-quality stylish interior and a new powertrain lineup.
