2009 Honda Civic

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Honda Civic Sedan gets slightly freshened exterior styling, a few new features, and some new trim levels. The Civic comes as a 4-door sedan and a 2-door coupe (see separate report). Also offered is a gas/electric Hybrid sedan (see separate report), as well as a sedan that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). Sedans in DX, LX, EX, EX-L, and sporty Si trims. New for 2009 are DX-VP and LX-S. The limited-edition MUGEN Si has been discontinued. DX, DX-VP, LX, LX-S, EX, and EX-L have a 140-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. Si versions have a 197-hp 2.0-liter four. 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 CNG. All 140-hp Civics come with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. GX models are automatic only. Si only comes with a 6-speed manual. 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. A navigation system with voice activation is available on EX, EX-L, Si, and Hybrid. New for 2009 is an available wireless cell-phone link for EX, EX-L, 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 Chevrolet HHR, Hyundai Elantra, and Mazda 3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus (coupe), Hyundai Elantra Touring, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, and Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen. The Volkswagen Jetta also adds a diesel engine.