Honda is not a company to make changes arbitrarily. The Civic's exterior design was fresh and attractive four years ago and it remains so in 1999. A minor freshening of front and rear shapes this year gives Honda salespeople something to talk about, but makes no significant difference to the overall appearance.Three body styles are offered. A three-door hatchback is the entry-level version, followed on the size and price scales by a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan. All three use identical sheet metal from front bumper to windshield. All adhere to popular styling themes, having a distinct wedge profile rising from front to rear with large headlights and taillights. Careful detailing lends character to what is overall a simple form.
Some of the details that make the Civic appealing are also functional. The low cowl and hood line combine with generous glass area to provide exceptional visibility for driver and passengers. All three Civics have large doors, and offer handy access to well-shaped stowage spaces in back.
The least expensive member of the family is the plain CX hatchback. Even a basic radio costs extra here, though a split/folding rear seat, tinted glass and a rear-window defroster are included. Regardless of body style, the basic DX trim level includes dual outside mirrors, an AM/FM radio and adjustable steering column. All sedans and automatic transmission-equipped coupes and hatchbacks come with power steering.