2009 Honda Civic Hybrid Review

The Honda Civic has been one the best selling vehicles in the U.S. for more than a decade. The Civic relies upon good fuel economy, sound handling, a low base price, and strong resale value to garner as many sales as possible. Though there is stiff competition in the compact car market, the Honda Civic has already provided a vehicle at the top of its class. The latest model that Honda has added to the Civic lineup is the Honda Civic Hybrid.

Pricing: The 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid is not quite the bargain of other Civic models, but it is competitively priced in the hybrid market. The Honda Civic Hybrid starts at a base price of $23,650. This pricing is almost directly equivalent to the pricing of the 2010 Toyota Prius. Though Honda does offer a cheaper hybrid. the 2010 Honda Insight, that model is smaller in size and lower on features. For the price of the 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid you will find little competition. The Toyota Prius will be the main competitor and will likely outsell the Civic Hybrid, but the Civic Hybrid has many virtues.

Standard Features and Options: All 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid's come equipped with a continuously variable transmission. The transmission allows the vehicle to respond instantly and provides adequate acceleration numbers. Additionally, the 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid can come equipped with optional high end features such as a leather interior, a USB audio interface, and a navigation system with voice recognition. many additional features are available. The 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid features all expected amenitiies such as A/C, power windows, power locks, etc.

Performance: The 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid features a 1.3 liter 4 cylinder i-VTEC engine that outputs 110 hp. This engine is paired with a lightweight electric motor that provides additional go power when needed. The hybrid power is considered mild, as the vehicle is incapable of moving under electrical power only. The EPA rates the Civic Hybrid at 40mpg city and 45 mpg highway. The fuel economy numbers are impressive, but some hybrids can do better. The vehicle as a whole drives much like a detuned Honda Civic. The suspension is softer, the ride is cushier, and the tires are designed for high rolling resistance. In the end, don't expect sporting performance, this car is geared for fuel economy and highway cruising.

Bottom Line: The 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid is not a model that will generate a lot of talk. However, it is a capable hybrid vehicle that achieves great fuel economy and does so for a low cost. If you like the regular Honda Civic, you will probably enjoy the Honda Civic Hybrid, but remember its an A to B vehicle, not a track star.