2010 Honda Civic Review

High fuel economy naturally is the highlight of the Honda Civic Hybrid sedan, which delivers an estimated 40 mpg in the city and 45 on highways.

Beyond that, this compact front-wheel-drive Honda is above-average in most respects, as are the many conventional Civic models. Civics long have been among top autos in the compact car class.

The slick-looking 2010 Civic Hybrid is little changed from the 2009 model, which got some freshened exterior styling. A redone Civic is due in the spring of 2011.

The Civic Hybrid's 110-horsepower hybrid powertrain combines a 1.3-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and works well, with no overt vices. Power flows through a smooth continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

Acceleration is good in town, but slows above 65 mph. A 65-75 mph pass thus is average to mediocre, although  the car easily cruises at 70 mph There is noticeable road noise with the radio off above 65 mph.

Steering is plenty quick, but feels rather dead. The Civic Hybrid's low-rolling-resistance tires are designed mainly to enhance fuel economy-not to help provide sporty handling if the car is driven hard. The ride is supple, although stiffer than a standard Civic's, and  large bumps can be felt. The brake pedal has a reassuring firm feel, which is typical with some hybrids.    

The Civic Hybrid starts at $23,800. It goes to $27,000 if you want items such as a navigation system, heated front seats and leather upholstery.

In between are a $25,000 version with leather upholstery and a $25,800 version with a navigation system and XM satellite radio. All are refined, inside and out.

The base Civic Hybrid is moderately well-equipped and has significant safety features, It seems a little silly to get what is essentially an economy car with such items as leather upholstery.

My $27,000 test Civic Hybrid had items such as automatic climate control and cruise control, besides the leather and a good sound system..

Crash-test results for the Civic Hybrid are impressive, thanks to many air bags and items including stability and traction control. Anti-lock brakes with a brake assist feature for surer stops also are standard.

Doors have easily gripped outside handles. They open wide for quick entry and exit. There's good room for four tall adults and plenty of interior storage areas, including a deep console bin and door pockets, although the glove compartment is just moderately sized.

Front console cupholders  are positioned to avoid spills. And front seats provide good side support in curves and during quick maneuvers.

The stylish two-tier instrument panel has an easily read digital speedometer, but audio controls have undersized buttons. All-around visibility from the driver's seat is above-average.

Most take folding seatbacks for granted in smaller cars, but the Civic Hybrid doesn't have them because of its unique drive system. However, the trunk is large, with a low, wide opening-although it has old-fashioned manual hinges. The interior lid is lined for a nicely finished look.

The Civic long has had a solid reputation for style, engineering, reliability and good resale value. With the Hybrid version, you can throw in superb fuel economy.