subject: The 2010 Honda Civic [print this page] The 2010 Honda Civic is one of the highest rated cars in it's class. Often thought of as being either the best or at least second best compact car offered in almost every aspect. Unlike many cars at it's price, the Civic gives consumers many interior options, along with more than adequate performance. It is made by a manufacturer that is known for their quality engineering and reputation for reliable vehicles. Buyers considering a small car that doesn't cost a lot but offers superb power, performance, and handling should seriously consider a Civic.
Consumers looking to purchase one of these classy sub-compact vehicles will have a lot of trim packages and body styles to select from. All of the available trim packages are the DX, DX-VP, LX, LX-S, EX and EX-L. Each has it's own available features, standard engines, and optional accessories. The basic model is the DX, which starts in price around $15,000. Considering all the features inside, it is one of the best basic trim packages from any auto maker. Virtually every DX comes with a smaller 4 cylinder engine, and a choice of automatic or manual transmission. Inside the DX there is comfortable seating and optional power windows and locks. DX-VP or the basic value package models come equipped with a CD/mp3 player and Air Conditioning. The next step up is the LX model which has keyless entry, 16 inch wheels (15 inch on DX), a folding rear seat, and additional cruise control.
With more offered for available features and standard options there is the EX model. These were engineered for performance and offer a great selection of standard accessories. A luxury EX comes with 16 inch alloy wheels, 6 speaker stereo systems, steering wheel accessory controls, a 60/40 split rear seat that fold separately, and a sunroof. Si models are rather similar except that they come with an even more powerful engine, fog lights, sports style seating, 17 inch wheels, and an impressive suspension system.
Engines offered for the 2010 Honda Civic include a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine with 128 foot pound torque, and up to 140 horsepower. Each model is offered with the basic 1.8 liter gasoline engine, and it is tweaked for performance in the higher-end packages. There is another 1.8 liter engine that runs solely on natural gas but it only has the ability to go 200 miles before it needs refueling. Civic hybrid models come with a 1.3 liter 4 cylinder, gasoline engine and an electric engine, giving it one of the best fuel economies of any small car.
Overall fuel consumption for most packages and engines is best in class. City driving on the worst model comes in at around 25 mpg, except for the natural gas powered engine. Compared with practically any competitor, the Civic comes out ahead in fuel economy. Honda has also tried to make the 2010 Honda Civic one of the safest sub-compact cars available. With available stability control, drivers have great control over how the vehicle handles in almost all road conditions. In frontal crash impact tests, the Civic scored a perfect 5 stars. Side impact tests received a rating of 4 stars which is impressive for any small car like the Civic.
Honda has truly made another great Civic for the '10 model year. With improvements both inside and out, it remains a class leader in virtually every category. While being more than affordable, it offers amenities that come on many luxury vehicles. Consumers who are on a budget and still need a reliable car that can perform should consider one of the basic models, while those looking for an enhanced experience will do well with a slightly more expensive package.
