If the CVT transmission, which we rate as tops for clever design and would like to see available in all three body styles, isn't your cup of tea, Honda offers enough alternatives within the Civic line to suit almost any
compact-car buyer. Regardless of powertrain, the Civic offer top performance and economy. And there's a higher
level of mechanical refinement than those unfamiliar with Hondas might expect in this class.
For price-conscious buyers, a DX with selected extras is a very good value. A top-of-the-line EX sedan may
seem less so at $16,480 ($800 more with an automatic transmission), especially since that's $1000 above the
price of a base Accord.
But if reliability, economy, compact exterior dimensions and an unexpected (but welcome) dose of driving
pleasure are important to you, the Civic is a top choice.