2010 Honda Civic Hybrid

Model Highlights

The 2010 Honda Civic lineup starts with the frugal Civic DX, then builds up to LX, EX, and EX-L models. Each of those models come with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, making 140-horspower and hooked up to either a 5-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic. Si models get, in addition to a range of performance upgrades, a 197-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with a 6-speed manual transmission. Hybrid models get a version of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) mild-hybrid system, altogether producing 110 horsepower. Models with the standard engine or Si version are offered either as a 4-door sedan or 2-door coupe. The Coupe version gets a slightly racier image, thanks to a different, more aggressive roofline toward the back and a tilted-back look to the rear fascia. Coupes have a full-size back seat, though entry and exit is a little more difficult. Trunk space is about the same in the Sedan and Coupe--very ample with a low lift-over height in both cases. Even in its base DX form, the front-wheel-drive Civic feels responsive and nimble, yet also refined and comfortable enough for long-distance cruising. Si models have a definite edgier feel that won't be to everyone's liking, but they're better-suited to everyday driving than some of the other 'pocket rockets'--provided you don't mind a manual transmission. The Honda Civic Hybrid uses an Integrated Motor Assist hybrid systems that's simpler than the full hybrid systems in some rival vehicles yet aims to assist in maximizing fuel economy--especially in highway driving. The other very green Civic model, the Honda Civic GX, remains the only normal retail-sale natural-gas-powered vehicle for sale in the U.S. According to Honda, the GX is eligible for federal tax credits, and natural gas costs about 35 percent less than gasoline. The base Civic DX doesn't come with a lot of luxury or convenience features (there's no air conditioning), but it does hit on most of the basics, including power windows and a folding rear seat to expand trunk space to accommodate long items. A DX-VP (Sedan only) adds more popular equipment, including air conditioning and a 160-watt CD/MP3 sound system with auxiliary jack. Next up, the LX, brings power locks, cruise control and a center console with armrest, with an LX-S Sedan bringing alloy wheels, a spoiler, a chrome exhaust tip and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The well-appointed EX Sedan and Coupe get a moonroof, split-folding back seat, steering-wheel audio controls and ambient lighting, while the EX-L adds leather upholstery, leather trim, and heated seats and mirrors. Top EX and EX-L Coupes exclusively get an upgraded speaker system, including a subwoofer. An in-dash navigation system and XM Satellite Radio are optional only on the EX and EX-L. Honda says that it now includes more than 7 million points of interest; it also has voice-activation and integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling. The Civic comes with plenty of occupant protection, including front side and side-curtain airbags, electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes.