2006 Honda Civic Sedan

Over the past three decades, Honda's subcompact Civic has captivated buyers who appreciate the Japanese automaker's reputation for reliable, common sense automobiles. Civics have grown a lot in size and power over that timeframe, but they invariably attracted customers seeking frugal fuel economy and strong resale value. For its eighth generation, Honda promises an "all-new" 2006 Civic that reaches well beyond its predecessors in both appearance and performance.

Styling

Civic sedans and coupes went on sale in September, 2005 in DX, LX and EX trim levels. The sporty Civic Si followed in October, and the Civic Hybrid sedan with its gasoline/electric powertrain arrives at dealers in December '05. Honda is promoting the Civic's "expressive" exterior styling, including its "sweeping roofline," minimal front and rear overhangs, and steep windshield angle. In fact, Honda claims that the Civic's low stance and "one-motion profile" replaces the customary "three-box" design standard.


Under the new measurement system adopted by the Society of Automotive Engineers for 2006, the Civic's 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine develops 140 horsepower at a lofty 6,300 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm. Honda claims that it produces the power of a 2.0-liter engine, with fuel economy comparable to a 1.5-liter. With the optional five-speed automatic transmission, the Civic is rated at 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). City mileage improves to 38 mpg with the standard five-speed manual transmission. Civics meet ULEV-2 (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards in every state.


Wheels and tires have grown, and Honda advises that gaps between tires and fenders are tighter. Alloy wheels on the EX sedan hold 15-inch tires. The LX sedan has 16-inch tires on steel wheels, and the DX gets 15-inch rubber. Antilock braking with electronic brake-force distribution is standard, along with side-curtain airbags and side-impact airbags for the front seats. Active front-seat head restraints also are standard. Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body Structure promises "enhanced vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility," according to Honda.

Interior

Inside, a unique two-tier instrument panel positions priority gauges, including a digital speedometer, high up for easy viewing. In addition to being different, the Civic's dashboard layout delivers the goods in terms of readability. Prominently positioned ahead of the driver, the digital speedometer is flanked by temperature and fuel bar-graph gauges. Below is a large tachometer.