2006 Honda Civic Hybrid

Although the Civic Hybrid rides as smoothly as many larger sedans, most pavement blemishes are sensed a little at the least. Rough road surfaces can translate to some lumpiness, but the well-controlled suspension prevents most shudders from reaching the occupants. Electric rack-and-pinion power steering feels much like that of any other compact sedan, yielding capable handling that falls short of sporty in nature.


Response is a tad sluggish at take-off, and acceleration won't set any records. At lower speeds, though, the Civic Hybrid, aided by the smoothness of the CVT unit, performs nearly as energetically as its gasoline-engine siblings. The gasoline engine cuts in and out promptly, though occasionally a bit curtly. Most hybrids exhibit a comparable "bump" as the engine turns on that's usually very little more than a mild nudge. Engine blare isn't bad unless the gas pedal is pushed to the floor.

Hybrid Power

Getting into the front seat is easy, but entry space into the rear is more constricted. Driver's visibility is good, but the triangular glass panels ahead of each front side window serve no valid purpose. Controls are sensibly laid-out in an attractive interior. Among the easy-to-drive sedan's few faults, the rubbery steering-wheel rim feels a bit tacky. The optional 6.5-inch navigation screen is high-mounted with an easy-to-read map, but its controls aren't quite as easy to use as one might prefer. For multimedia fans, the motorized display screen opens to reveal a CD player and digital card reader.


Standard features include alloy wheels supporting 15-inch tires, remote entry with trunk release, power mirrors enhanced by integrated turn-signal indicators, and a rear decklid spoiler—the option of a moonroof is not offered with this Hybrid. Trunk space, totaling 10.4 cubic feet, is a little smaller than that of a regular Civic sedan. Standard safety equipment includes front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, active head restraints, antilock braking with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, and daytime running lights. Interior standards include cruise control, tilt/telescopic steering column, center console with sliding armrest and storage compartment, and a 160-watt XM-ready CD stereo system. Fold-down rear seatbacks, though installed in other Civics, are not included in the Hybrid.


A Civic Hybrid can come home for $22,150 plus $550 destination charge, or $23,650 with the optional navigation system. As a comparison, a fully loaded, top of the line gasoline-engine Civic EX, with an automatic transmission, stickers for $20,760. Small prices to pay for a little extra comfort while at the pump, or passing it by. (www.hondacars.com)