Honda's compact car was first introduced in 1972 as a small, inexpensive hatchback. The Civic Si made a comeback in 2002, and the Civic Hybrid was added as a 2003 model with a gas-electric hybrid technology. For 2006 the Honda Civic was revamped throughout trims. This eighth generation Front Wheel Drive (FWD) Civic comes in two body styles, three engines, four transmissions, and five trim levels.

The DX, LX, and EX models of the Coupe and Sedan versions are powered by a powerful and fuel efficient 140 horsepower (hp) 1.8L SOHC i-VTEC in-line 4-cylinder. The Si trim is a sportier version and is available on the sedan and coupe for 2007.

In the preceding model year the Civic received a redesigned instrument panel, a telescoping steering wheel, side-curtain airbags, front-seat side airbags, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, 4-channel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), active front-seat head restraints, and most of all, higher horsepower.

The Civic Si has a powerful 197 hp engine, a sport-tuned suspension, and a 6-speed manual with a limited-slip differential. Since inception, the Civic has been consistently synonymous with reliable performance and fuel efficiency. Sky-rocketing gasoline prices combined with its spanking new haute couture looks will therefore ensure an appreciative audience.

The Civic wears a sporty-sleek aerodynamic body with a swooping roofline, and a broader stance. The interiors combine functionality with form and style. Revised suspensions deliver a refined ride quality. It has a basic warranty of 60 months/60,000 miles

The Honda Civic sedan and coupe are available in 3 trims: DX, LX, and EX. All feature a standard 140 hp 1.8L in-line 4-cylinder with a standard 5-speed manual transmission, and an optional 5-speed AT. Torque amounts to 128 pound-feet (lb-ft).

EPA estimated fuel economy amounts to 30/38 mpg (city/highway) for the manual transmission and 30/40 mpg (city/highway) for the automatic transmission.

The Honda Civic went through a thorough re-do in the previous model year. The sedans and coupes were given completely different body panels with distinguishing trim elements and markings. In a bid to help the Civic gain ground in the sport-compact market, Honda added on reinforced mounting points and gussets to facilitate suspension and various other changes without compromising on body integrity.

Subtle styling marks the front fascia. Positioned at the lower portion is a single, broad air intake, while upwardly angled slender headlamp assemblies curve around the fenders.

The Civic features a monoform design; the leading edge of the windshield reaches into the hood right up to the centre of the front wheel wells. The rear view of each body style is markedly different.

The sedan has a vertical trunk lid that moves across from a high crest adding to its sleek contour. A one-touch power moonroof with tilt feature is standard on DX and LX models. Integrated rear-window antenna and multi-reflector halogen headlights are standard across all trims; variable intermittent windshield wipers are standard only on the EX trim.

The Civic’s instrument arrangement is unusual. The digital speedometer and gas gauge are placed at the base of the windshield, while the analog tachometer stays at the same location as before.

The rear legroom gains 1.4 inches. An LCD window that combines the navigation display and an audio setting is located in the centre of the dash above the climate control panel. Dividing the upper and lower halves of the dash is a wide but shallow glove box.

A shallow storage bin with a power point and an audio input jack lies on the left side below the climate control panel. Armrests provide good support. Every door features a plastic map pocket. The rear of the front passenger seatback has a magazine pouch.

The trunk has a spare tire well that is large enough to hold a full-size tire in the event of a flat. Oversize rear doors provide easy rear seat access. Plastic trim elements have a well finished look. Seating is comfortable, and fabric upholstery feels durable. An expansive windshield, low cowl, and sloping hood allow a great view out front.

Honda's Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition is available on the EX. Standard features include a two-tier instrument panel, blue backlit gauges, a Maintenance Minder System, adjustable head restraints, a remote trunk release with lock and plenty more.

The 1.8L engine in the Honda Civic offers near flawless performance and great fuel economy. Horsepower and torque are ample.

The tweaked chassis and upgraded front and rear suspensions combined with enlarged wheels and tires give the car a solid feel and improve steering quality.

A long wheelbase allows a smoother ride. It offers a firm ride, with minimal road and wind noise. Brakes and steering response feel sure and solid.

Standard safety features include: 3-point seat belts, front 3-point seat belts with automatic tensioning system, driver/front passenger seat belt reminder, dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, front side airbags with Passenger-Side Occupant Position Detection System, side curtain airbags, driver’s and front passenger's active head restraints, advanced compatibility engineering body structure, Anti-Lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Distribution, Daytime Running Lights, side-impact door beams, and Outboard Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).