2006 Honda Civic Sedan

The multi-functional center console holds up to 20 CDs and serves as an armrest for both front occupants. Audio choices include XM Satellite radio and an iPod adapter. All Civic audio systems provide MP3 and WMA playback. Audio input jacks are standard in the EX sedan. The EX model can have a navigation system with a 6.5-inch motorized display that opens and closes for access to a CD player and digital card reader. Voice activation can be used to specify city and street names.


Triangular glass panes ahead of front side windows are strictly for styling, adding little to visibility, which is quite good. A short handbrake lever, next to the gearshift, works easily, but a test sedan's steering-wheel rim had a rubbery feel. The navigation screen (if installed) is positioned relatively high, but is not the biggest, and its controls could be simpler.

Power

Greater body width is said to allow wider, more supportive seats. Entry is easy into the front seat and not bad into the back. Front seat bottoms are short, so thigh support suffers—but there is plenty of back support. Seats are comfortable, though some riders might prefer a tad more cushioning. Backseat space, while not immense, beats a number of midsize automobiles. The easy-loading trunk is ample, but not vast.


Civics have long been sensible, if a bit sterile, small-car choices, improving a bit in each generation. This time, Honda has pulled out even more stops, creating a sedan that appears destined to rule its area of the market, leaving recent Civics almost squirming in the dust. Styling is as appealing as promised, but that's just the beginning. Most flaws are minor in nature. This Civic delivers spirited response to the gas pedal, augmented by nearly seamless automatic-transmission operation.


Though not utterly silent, the Civic is pleasantly quiet. The sedan rides about as smoothly as many larger models, even through pockmarked urban streets. A little lumpiness occurs when the surface gets rough, and you feel nearly every pavement imperfection at least slightly, but the taut suspension transmits only moderate commotion to occupants. Steering with a light but satisfying touch, the Civic maneuvers smartly and painlessly.