![]() It’s powered by a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor/generator that, when combined, produces 93 hp. The Civic Hybrid is available with either a five-speed-manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that uses no gears but produces a steady flow of power while accelerating. An automatic idle/stop feature shuts off the engine when the car comes to a stop as a means of conserving fuel.įor 2004, the Civic Hybrid’s hood, bumpers, grille and headlights have been restyled, and the rear seats gain adjustable headrests. The batteries never need to be connected to a power outlet because they’re recharged while driving. While yielding impressive fuel-economy figures and reduced emissions, the Civic Hybrid drives like any other automobile. It uses the batteries to provide additional power, when needed, for acceleration. Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system in the Civic Hybrid makes the gas engine dominant. Hybrid-powered cars run on either a small gasoline engine, batteries or a combination of both. As Honda put it, the hybrid powertrain is now “ready for prime time.” Honda took another step in 2003 by introducing a gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain in its conventional Civic sedan. Toyota followed in 2000 with its Prius sedan. Civics are appealing and undeniably sensible, though they’re not overpowering or alluring.īy launching its two-passenger Insight in 1999, Honda set the pace for hybrid powertrains in the U.S. This car delivers excellent ride quality and is wholly capable and precise during tight maneuvers. Steering has a substantial feel and requires only modest effort. The only minor drawback is its inability to move at low speeds in higher gears due to the lack of low-speed engine torque. ![]() The 127-hp EX’s throttle response is good, but its automatic transmission reacts a bit slowly the manual gearshift, however, functions like a knife slicing through butter, and the clutch performs expertly. The Civic EX is about as good as compact sedans get. Those aspects may be overshadowed easily by Honda’s reputation for quality and dependability. The Civic is solid, substantial, quiet on the road, and easy and pleasant to drive, but it’s a bit on the bland side in appearance and performance. Antilock brakes are standard on the EX but not available on other models. Side-impact airbags for the front seats are optional on all models. This transmission is standard in the GX model that runs on compressed natural gas. The HX is available with a continuously variable automatic transmission that has no gears. The HX model has a 117-hp lean-burn engine that operates with reduced emissions. Both engines are available with a standard five-speed-manual gearbox or an optional four-speed-automatic transmission. In EX models, this engine makes use of Honda’s variable valve technology and produces 127 hp. When installed in the DX and LX models, the 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine makes 115 hp. The trunk offers 12.9 cubic feet of space, and the split rear seatback folds down for additional cargo room. Rear legroom is ample because of its compact rear suspension. A shoulder belt is provided for the center rear seating position. The coupes and sedans share the same hood, front fenders, front bumper and headlight styling, but the coupe’s rear pillars, rear bumper and taillights are different, and it features a steeper windshield.Īll Civics seat five people and offer a more spacious feel than some other compact models. Both Civic body styles ride a 103.1-inch wheelbase, but the four-door model is 1.6 inches taller than its two-door companion. Measuring 174.6 inches long overall, the four-door Civic is nearly 4 inches shorter than the Toyota Corolla and 6.5 inches longer than the Ford Focus. Each Civic earns an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV) rating. (Skip to details on the: Civic Hybrid | Civic Si)Īll Civics but the Civic Hybrid and Civic Si carry a 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine, with outputs varying from 115 to 127 hp, depending on the model. Honda also offers the performance-focused Civic Si hatchback. Honda introduced the Civic Hybrid for 2003, and a gasoline engine and an electric motor power this model. Redesigned for the 2001 model year, the front-wheel-drive Civic was made to look more like its larger Accord sibling.Įnhancements for 2003 promised improved handling, interior comfort and convenience. Honda’s popular coupe and sedan get a face-lift for 2004, and the revisions include restyling on the hood, bumpers, grille and headlights.
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