INTRO: 2012 marks the ninth generation of the Honda Civic and with it comes higher fuel economy and new performance options for this ever-popular compact sedan and coupe. Trims for the 5-passenger Civic are base DX, LX, HF, EX-L and the rally inspired Si.
FEATURES: LX and higher trims receive a driver eye-level 5-inch color multi-information display that monitors vehicle information and is Bluetooth capable. The new HF variant of the LX model with improved aerodynamics delivers 41 highway miles per gallon.
PERFORMANCE: The base engine for the Civic is a 1.8-liter inline-4 sending 140 horsepower to the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic. The sporty Si model receives a 201 horsepower 2.4-liter inline-4 mated to a six-speed manual gear box.
FUEL ECONOMY: Here are the highest and lowest EPA estimates for fuel economy:
PRICING/WARRANTY: Base MSRP for the 2012 Honda Civic DX coupe is $15,605. The DX sedan starts at $15,805. The up-rated Si sedan starts at $22,405. The Civic is backed by a 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
CLOSING: The new 2012 Honda Civic ratchets up performance and fuel economy to remain a stalwart contender in the compact arena.