2009 Honda Civic Review

Specifications

When the first Honda Civic was introduced over 30 years ago, it made waves with its overall efficiency and sporty look, especially compared to the common American vehicles on the road. To this day, the Civic remains one of the most popular coupes and small sedans among drivers everywhere. However, you don’t need a history lesson to see that the 2009 Honda Civic is near the top of its class. Here’s our review of Honda’s latest offering:

Exterior Design

Over the last several years, the Honda Civic’s appearance hasn’t been altered too much. In this case, Honda likely doesn’t want to mess with a good thing. If there’s one complaint to be made though, it’s that the vehicle can take on a min-van like appearance with its sloped front-end and windshield. The coupe and Si models can help remedy this with their sport-inspired appearance, especially with an added spoiler.

Interior Design

While the interior design of the 2009 Honda Civic is pretty standard fare, it does have one feature that you’re sure to either absolutely hate or completely love. Unlike nearly every other vehicle out there, the Civic’s speedometer and gas gauge are located at the base of the windshield. In theory, their placement is meant to allow drivers to more easily check their speed and gas tank, without taking their eyes off the road. It works for some people, while others find it more of a distraction. As always, the Civic makes the most out of its spacious cabin and trunk space.

Fuel Efficiency

While Honda offers several different types of engines that provide various degrees of fuel efficiency, it’s safe to say that the 2009 Honda Civic is one of the “greener” gas powered vehicles out there. Those with 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engines, the smallest available, are estimated to receive 25 MPG city and 36 MPG highway. Some of the other models, like the Civic Si, pack a more powerful engine at the expense of fuel economy. Naturally, the hybrid version of the Civic gets the best gas mileage, at 40 MPG city and 45 MPG highway

Safety

We’ve come to expect great things in terms of safety from the Honda Civic and the 2009 models live up to their reputation. Government testing shows that the Civic received a perfect score for front side impacts and a near perfect score for side impacts. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also gave the vehicle one of its top ratings for crash tests. Drivers can take peace of mind in knowing that all 2009 Civics come standard with side curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags.

Bottom Line

By now, you probably know what to expect from the Honda Civic. It may not be particularly flashy, but whatever the car is lacking in style is made up for in nearly every other area. Like its early predecessors, the 2009 Honda Civic remains a great choice for drivers in the market for a reliable, safe, and economical vehicle. Overall, it’s worthy of our highest recommendation as it continues Honda’s long tradition of producing fantastic vehicles.