Overview & Reviews

Since its launch in 1973, the Honda Civic has been one of the most popular compact cars sold in America. Its success can be attributed in large part to its consistently high level of quality inside and out and its long-standing reputation for reliability and low running costs. Impressive fuel economy and engaging performance have also played a role in making the Civic a top choice for many Americans.

The competition has largely caught up with Honda, though, and there are now many excellent small cars vying for your attention. Still, we continue to recommend the Civic due to its ergonomic interior layout, wide range of models and high resale value. For small-car shoppers in search of a solid used vehicle, the Honda Civic is certainly a smart choice, as its long production run and many variants make it easy to find what you want.

User Reviews:

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  Noisy Engine - 2004 Honda Civic
  By gt7154d - January 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Honda. Heres a couple of negative, yet pertinent, comments: 1) noisy engine while idling, which should not happen to a mint new car. 2) noisy power steering at 90 degree turn. 3) not enough power on a 1:8 slope, no passengers and loads. 4) headlight still on after locking door.

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  Third Ones a Charm - 2004 Honda Civic
  By 4evrhonda - January 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my third honda. First bought a 94 hatchback, traded it in for a 98 CRV. I kept the CRV for weekends and bought an 2004 LX for the everyday commute. We wanted a sedan for better gas milage and went with the LX since it has all of the features we were used to with the CRV LX. Has the same light ride as the CRV but hugs the road better. I was surprised at the 15 inch wheels! Makes it look sportier. The lines remind you of a 3-series BMW. I love the new Magnesium Metallic color. First tank got us 30 to the gallon. Im glad they got rid of the the center lap belt. Internet sales helped us get it $500 below invoice.

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  Great Car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By dsturgill - January 25 - 2:00 am

  This is a realy great car. I needed to have something I could put some kids (big kids) into and this seems to be the answer. We occasionaly take a 275 mile trip to the Outer Banks and it performs well. Gas mileage isnt bad considering I have a lead foot. The whole family likes it.

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  Love this car - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Hondalover - January 22 - 7:12 pm

  I bought this car used with 89k miles a year and a half ago after totaling my 2004 Sunfire and I must say that this is probably the best car Ive ever owned. Sleek styling, smooth ride, excellent gas mileage, and very reliable. It now has 136k miles and the only thing Ive had to replace was a faulty starter at 119k miles, and a front bumper and fender after a collision at 125k. Repairs are rare but costly when needed. Car still looks and drives like new (no squeaks or rattles and everything still works) even after 136k miles and being wrecked, which says a lot about Honda products. If this car ever quits on me, which I doubt will be any time soon, I will definitely own another Honda.

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  188,000 and time to retire - 1997 Honda Civic
  By DaveInPhoenix - January 22 - 11:58 am

  I bought this car used with 125k mi. in 2001. I immediately recognized the potential for how fun this car would be with some modifications. I put 17" wheels on (best performance mod, BTW) and a 1.5" lower suspension. This car handles like its on rails. Every time I drive this car its like Im racing on Mazda Speedway. Much fun! Mileage is great with average 30mpg considering my driving habits. I grenaded the motor at 150k mi and the transmission is now in need of replacement, but I bear full responsibility for these things because of my driving style. The rest of the car is tip-top and would probably last another 200k mi. My only ongoing complaint has been effectiveness of A/C.

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  Somewhat disappointed - 2006 Honda Civic
  By brandonavich - January 21 - 11:53 am

  I bought this car on a whim, remembering my CRX Si from years ago. I hoped it could match the fun-factor that car had. Instead, this model feels a little nose heavy, and Honda has taken the "soul" out of the Si line. It has never left me straded, but there are little things here and there that i have had to visit the dealer for. It scoots ok when you ring it out, but is cumbersome in city driving due to its lack of torque. I would be happier if they got the weight down a little and increased low end torque so i am not revving to 4k rpms just to get up to speed. overall, a decently quick mode of transportation, but there are better choices out there.

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  2004 Civic LX Sedan - 2004 Honda Civic
  By acousticgtr - January 21 - 10:00 am

  I love it!

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  Civic comes out winner after long search - 2004 Honda Civic
  By satisfied_100percent - January 21 - 10:00 am

  Tested out Corolla an others - Glad I went with a Civic though! The grill and headlight shaping for 2004 are a big improvement over 2003. Interior is put together SO well. Not boring - love the electric-blue gauges. Each part of interior feels like it was crafted specifically for your car - not in mass. No rough edges on molded plastic. Ride is awesome! Told my wife I wouldnt consider anything but an EX. After testing an LX, I was surprised that the less powerful LX engine didnt feel lazy. Just wonderful! Handling is tight and responsive, not boaty like a Corolla. Transmission is SOOOO silky smooth!! Love it!

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  Finally bought Japanese - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Tim - January 20 - 9:06 pm

  This is a fun car to drive. The seating position can be made comfortable for both me and my wife. Handles great and has good acceleration. I like the look of the car and I have gotten used to the two tiered dash. Well thought out car. No complaints. One issue though, which suprised me. The interior fit has some issues. One of the trim peices was not properly attached and worse, there is a very pronounced and frequent rattling in the dash. What happenned to the famed fit and build quality. I havent had a chance to bring it in to fix yet. Better be.

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  honda hybrid - 2006 Honda Civic
  By m wilson - January 19 - 8:30 pm

  This car performs very good for the size of the motor. This car has a nice ride for its size.