Honda Civic Hybrid

Brought back in 2025, the Civic Hybrid's calling card is terrific fuel economy, which gets a huge boost to 44 mpg overall, compared to 33 mpg for the regular Civic. The hybrid version is also more than two seconds quicker from 0 to 60 mph. The hybrid's electric drive is paired with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that together produce 200 hp and make for a delightfully smooth and responsive powertrain. Plus, it can propel itself on electric power alone at low speeds. Handling is fairly nimble, and the ride is compliant and controlled thanks to the added weight of the hybrid's battery pack. The cabin still suffers from excessive road noise, however. The front seats could use better comfort and adjustability, though the rear seat is roomy for the class. We love the Civic's easy-to-use controls. The Hybrid is also available as a hatchback.

Tweaks to the 2013 Civic Hybrid have made the car better, with a more comfortable ride and a quieter, nicer looking interior. The hybrid's 1.5-liter, four-cylinder gas engine works well with the CVT, and it returned an impressive 40 mpg overall. It can't shut off the engine and drive solely on electric power, like the Toyota Prius does. Instruments are arranged into two tiers, with a high-mounted digital speedometer. The rear seat is roomy, but it doesn't fold because of the location of the battery. Crash-test results are impressive.

The 2012 redesigned Civic Hybrid is disappointing, with vague steering, pronounced road noise, and handling that isn't particularly agile. The hybrid's 1.5-liter, four-cylinder gas engine works well with the CVT, and the hybrid returned an impressive 40 mpg overall. Unlike the Toyota Prius, it can't drive solely on electric power. Instruments are arranged into two tiers, with a high-mounted digital speedometer. The interior has generous storage space, but the rear seat does not fold. Standard safety equipment includes ABS, curtain air bags, and electronic stability control.

The Civic Hybrid was not produced from 2016 to 2024.

The 2006-2011 Civic was a major improvement over earlier versions, featuring a roomier and quieter interior and a better ride. Most versions have a refined and economical 1.8-liter four-cylinder, returning 28 mpg overall with the five-speed automatic and 31 mpg with the slick-shifting manual. A hybrid version gets a combined 37 mpg, but it sacrifices some trunk space and hybrid battery failures have been an issue. (We'd pick a Toyota Prius instead.) Steering is well-weighted and quick. Road noise remains noticeable. Inside is a roomy rear seat for a small car, with enough room for adults. The unique two-tier dashboard isn't to everyone's liking.

Good performance, efficient fuel economy, and plenty of interior space make the Honda Civic a fine choice. Most versions come with a sprightly 1.7-liter four-cylinder; the uplevel EX trim makes a bit more power and returns 29 mpg overall. Hybrid versions get 36 mpg overall, but they're slower than the regular Civic and have suffered hybrid battery failures. Handling is fairly nimble, but the ride is a bit too firm and road noise is pronounced. The Civic Si hatchback doesn't add that much excitement, despite its 160-hp engine. Antilock brakes were standard on the EX, Si, and Hybrid.