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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  Excellent Honda - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Stew - August 15 - 2:30 pm

  Given the time Ive had this car, I have had no problems or issues with it. It is a honda. For gas mileage see around 30 now, but only will see greater numbers after 10k miles, proven industry fact. Sporty in manners, corners like a slot car, and driven correctly, will accelerate quickly. Tight as a drum. Excellent package for the money. If you want more, buy an accord, for more $$$.

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  Very good, but still lacking - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Sam - August 14 - 8:20 pm

  I got this car after owning many minivans. Most of the time I don’t have my family onboard, so it is a waste of $ and fuel to drive around a bigger size vehicle. First time for me to own a foreign vehicle. Overall I am impressed with the quality of everything, everything works nicely together. I love the small sport-sized steering wheel, good handling (some body lean, though), no squeaks & rattles; overly well built. Fuel economy so far is not that great (about 23mpg average), but having just 1,700 miles, I hope it will improve with time. I miss the illuminated power window switches - mirror switches which I use once in a lifetime is lighted, but window switches are not (except drivers)!

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  200,000 and still going - 1992 Honda Civic
  By Great Car - August 14 - 12:09 pm

  I just purchase my Civic two months ago. I believe the previous owner didnt take good care of it but, despite its abuse, its still in great condition. I did have to replace the water pump, and the CV boots were split, but once those things were taken care of it felt like I was driving a new car. Gas mileage is still around 35 mpg, the cars acceleration is very responsive, and steering is great.

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  Not as much pop, but overall a great car - 2009 Honda Civic
  By KR - August 11 - 11:06 am

  I previously owned a 1.8 Turbo Volkswagen Jetta that had some serious pep for a 4cyl engine. However, the thing was falling apart and overall my experience was poor. I was drawn to the Civic because of its reputation for reliability, fuel economy, and its nice design. After nearly 3,000 miles on the car, Im happy with my purchase. Its not as much fun to drive as the Jetta, but the 5 speed manual offers some excitement and better all-around control over the car. I ended up going with the EX-L because on the 2009s its the only version that offers stability control (VSA). Also, its worth noting that Im relatively tall (64"), and I fit very comfortably in the drivers seat.

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  Civic Slicker - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Don M. - August 11 - 4:56 am

  Ive found this Civic 4-Dr surprisingly comfortable, easy handling and fun to drive. Its 5-sp manual/clutch combo is about as good as it gets; light, positive and smooth. Its engine is not noiseless, but is smooth and pleasant, with a good usable rpm range, from 1500 to 6700. The interior is well thought out, with storage everywhere. It is fitted with conveniences previously found in only more expensive cars. The navi and XM radio are a delight, and the carefully calculated mileage of 36.5 mpg for its 11000 mile life is extraordinary. Fit and finish are excellent. Doors shut lightly and solidly. I wouldnt trade it as a driver for anything I can think of...or Id be driving that!

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  They should build em all like this! - 1994 Honda Civic
  By Kate - August 10 - 1:44 pm

  This has been a great car for over 11 years. Car makers of the world should take lessons from Honda. Id have kept it indefinitely except for wanting the more advanced safety features available in new cars. I held out for as long as I could!

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  Reliable great looking car at an affordable price - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Nancy G - August 9 - 3:20 am

  I had it narrowed down to the Honda Civic and the Mazda 3. I found the Honda drove better. My previous car was an Infiniti and this car is very comparable at a much more affordable price

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  Great car! - 1991 Honda Civic
  By r1c - August 8 - 5:37 pm

  Ive had this car for seven months, it has 163000 miles on and the only noise comes from one of the original wheelcaps, but I havent changed it because I cant find the original ones. Everything works fine, power mirrors, windows, central lock, air conditioned etc. Its bit down powered compared to lighter newer cars like Hyundais of Nissans, but it is a lot more reliable and the design looks always cleaner and not as fast-dating as other makes. Im planning to keep it until next year and then buy a newer Civic, maybe a 1996 or 97, but I know Im gonna miss this one, maybe Ill sell it to my brother so it stays in the family!

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  honda civic dx - 2004 Honda Civic
  By tterry - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Great car , Great style and fun to drive have made several long triops and even with a full load gets 38 -40 better than my motorcycle, if you want a sharp fun car that want send ya to the poor house this is it

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  Awesome! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Lo - August 7 - 11:20 pm

  It rides so smooth, and it picks up pretty fast. I drive it to commute to college and i deliver pizzas in it and i still only fill up my tank once a week between 35-40 bucks! And the sound sytem bumps!