The 2012 Honda Civic is another addition to the impressive roster of vehicles under the automobile giant Honda. It is actually the ninth generation offering the same great performance that come with all Honda cars every year.
But the difference now is that this model has been fully redesigned in terms of style, fuel economy, and power. And now, there are already seven models available—sedan, coupe, Si sedan, Si coupe, hybrid, the HF, and natural gas models. If you want the best in terms of engine power, then the Si is the best option.
Performance
This model is a front-wheel drive powered by a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine which is capable of producing 140 horsepower with 128 pound-feet of torque. In terms of transmission, you can choose between a five-speed manual and a five-speed automatic.
In terms of fuel economy, this model has been getting good reviews. But there are always better alternatives.
Exterior & Interior
Prior to the release of the 2012 Civic, people were very much focused on the redesigned exterior. However, some reviewers and automobile journalists found the changes to be short of their expectations. In fact, there was a remark than even though this model is not pretty, it is not that eye-catching.
For instance, little has changed in length and height of the body styles. In fact, it seemed as if the manufacturers just made a few tweaks instead of the expected overhaul.
When it comes to the interior, this model boasts of more interior features and interior space for both front and rear passengers. But overall, the changes are still minor based on what some reviews have pointed out.
Safety
Safety-wise, this model still comes with the standard safety features found in Honda cars. The anti-lock brakes as well as the electronic stability system with traction control continue to be a standard feature. This model is also equipped with six airbags conveniently placed in the front, front seats, side-impact and side curtain airbags. The brakes are also better for this model than in previous ones.
For specific models, there are additional safety measures. The Si and EX trim, for example, have four-wheel disc brakes. The lower trims and high-efficiency versions, on the other hand, have rear drums.
Reliability
The Honda Civic gets thumbs up for reliability. It comes with a power train warranty that is actually typical for models under its class. This warranty also lasts for a good five years or 60,000 miles. Aside from this, you can also be secured with its Bumper-to-Bumper warranty that lasts for three years or 36,000 miles. A Corrosion Limited Warranty also comes with the package that is available for 5 years without any restriction in terms of mileage.
Competition
When side by side with its competitors, some reviews say that the interior styling of the Honda Civic looks rather plain. For instance, both the Chevrolet Cruze (MSRP $16,525; 26 city / 36 hwy) and the Hyundai Elantra (MSRP $15,195; 29 city / 40 hwy) are more spacious compared to the Honda Civic. Not only that, they offer more interior features at a comparable price. While the base Civic has no air conditioning and radio, the Cruze has both of these plus more.
But if you want to look at other makes, then you can go for the Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (MSRP $17,995; 23 city / 33 hwy) or Mazda 3 (MSRP $15,800; 25 city / 33 hwy) which are from the same class as the 2012 Honda Civic.
Finally, although this model can be a good buy, as previously mentioned, there are other alternatives. If you are a Honda loyalist, then you can go for the Honda Fit (MSRP $15,100; 27 city / 33 hwy) which less expensive, and equipped with more utilitarian features.
Overall Rating
68 out of 100
What others say:
“Sedans take bumps in stride, with good absorbency and little float or wallow.”Consumer Guide
“Excessive wind noise; some cheap interior plastics; busy-looking dash with navigation.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $15,805.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons | Miles Per Gallon: 28 city / 39 hwy |
| Length: 177.3 in. (450 cm) | Width: 69 in. (175 cm) |
| Height: 56.5 in. (143.5 cm) | Curb Weight: 2608 lbs (1183 kg) |
| Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 12.5 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 |
| Engine: 16-Valve SOHC i-VTEC® Inline 4-Cylinder | Displacement: NA |
| Horsepower: 140 hp | Max RPM: 6500 rpm |
| Torque: 128 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm | Transmission: 5-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: NA | 1/4 Mile: NA |
| Option:Civic LX | MSRP: $17,855; MPG: 28 city / 36 hwy |
| Option:Civic EX | MSRP: $20,505; MPG: 28 city / 39 hwy |
| Option:Civic EX-L | MSRP: $21,955; MPG: 28 city / 39 hwy |
| Option:Civic Si 6-spd MT | MSRP: $22,405; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy |
| Option:Coupe DX | MSRP: $15,605; MPG: 28 city / 36 hwy |
| Option:Civic Hybrid | MSRP: $24,050; MPG: 44 city / 44 hwy |
| Option:Civic HF | MSRP: $19,455; MPG: 29 city / 41 hwy |
| Option:Civic GX Natural Gas | MSRP: $25,490; MPG: 24 city / 36 hwy |
