2004 Honda Civic

The Civic's interior is one of the best found in the economy sedan class, with sufficient space for the driver and passengers.

For the coupe and sedan, there are three main trim levels: DX, LX and EX. The DX suits entry-level buyers who want a bare-bones model, as it either doesn't have or only includes as options such basic features as air conditioning, power mirrors and a tachometer. However, a new VP (Value Package) level of trim has just been introduced that adds a few convenience features to the DX. Those with a fatter budget will find that the LX supplies most of the comforts people prefer, including cruise control, air, power windows and a CD player.


For even more goodies, the EX adds a moonroof, antilock brakes, keyless entry, variable wipers, a driver seat-height adjuster and 15-inch wheels. There are also some other specialty models, including the more fuel-efficient HX coupe, equipped similarly to the DX coupe, while the natural gas-fueled GX sedan matches closely to the LX sedan. The Hybrid gas/electric Civic, in addition to its special powertrain, comes with a full complement of standard features.


The HX, Hybrid and natural gas-powered GX can be equipped with a continuously variable transmission, and all Civic 1.7-liter engines meet ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) standards. The 1.3-liter gasoline/electric powertrain found in the Civic Hybrid makes 93 hp, and touts impressive fuel economy: 46 mpg city/51 mpg on the highway for manual transmission-equipped cars.

Everything is positioned where it should be, without a rough edge or cheap distraction to be found.

For 2004, Honda freshened the Civic in some cosmetic areas, but wisely left everything else untouched. The coupe and sedan have new shapes for the bumpers, hood, headlights and grille. For better acoustics, extra sound deadening material and better audio speakers are now standard in the LX and EX. The LX trim has slightly bigger, 15-inch wheels, and there's a new value package that includes air conditioning, a CD player and a center console. In addition, all Civic sedans and coupes have a new seatbelt reminder system.


The Civic's dominance in the economy car arena begs a question: how do you improve on a segment leader? Spin-off models are one way to do that, and preliminary reports indicate that Honda has been busy plotting future Civics. Given Honda's new mission statement for increased performance, one obvious addition might include a sportier Type-R hatchback to entice the "fast and furious" crowd away from hot sport compacts such as Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution and Subaru's WRX. A 200-hp Type-R has been sold overseas the past few years, and a U.S. version might serve well as an image-booster for the current Civic line.