honda civic coupe

The Honda Civic coupe has evolved greatly over its six generations into the much larger -- and much more refined -- car that it is today. Only marginally less efficient than the first-generation Civic, the current model features massive upgrades in performance, safety and comfort.

Given its most recent major redesign back in 2006, the Civic coupe grew externally and internally to the point where it is almost a midsize car. This year the Civic coupe received its second mild refresh that gave it a mildly revised look both inside and out, accentuated on the exterior by a new set of head and tail lamps, as well as a modified front fascia that incorporates a honeycomb-style grille.

Inside, the Civic Coupe has room for five and a spaceship-inspired two-tier instrument panel, dashboard and center console, which looks and feels nothing like the Civic's conservative predecessors. The long dashboard and steep windshield only add to the unique driving position.

Available with just one engine (Civic Coupe Si has a unique engine), the Civic offers either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. The 1.8-liter single-overhead cam four-cylinder pumps out 140 horsepower at 6,320 rpm and 128 lb-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm and, in automatic guise, averages up to 25 mpg around town and 36 mpg on the highway.

Safety comes standard on the Civic coupe, including six airbags, standard anti-lock brakes, whiplash-reducing front-seat active head restraints and, on range-topping EX-L models, traction and stability control.

The range starts with the entry-level DX, which doesn't come with air conditioning or an audio system, but does feature a height-adjustable driver's seat, power windows, 15-inch wheels and a rear spoiler.

Moving up to the LX nets buyers air conditioning, power mirrors and locks, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM/CD player and 16-inch steel wheels.

The well-equipped EX adds rear disc brakes (to replace drums), a split-folding rear seat (to replace a non-split unit), a high-power XM Satellite-capable radio, a USB input for the audio system, steering wheel audio controls, a power sunroof, alloy wheels and an outside temperature indicator. It's also available with a navigation system with voice controls and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity.

The EX-L adds to the EX the aforementioned traction and stability control, as well as heated leather seats, leather wrapping for the steering wheel and heated power mirrors.

All models are available with either transmission. All Civic coupes qualify for ULEV-2 CARB emissions standards.

Basic SpecsBase Price     $15,605
Drivetrain     Front Wheel Drive
Curb Weight (lbs)     2588
City (MPG)     26
Hwy (MPG)     34
Horsepower     140@4300
Torque (lb-ft)     128@6300
Wheelbase     104.3
Length (in.)     175.5
Width (in.)     68.9
Height (in.)     55.0