*** Specifications and prices contained in
this article are based on US products ***
this article are based on US products ***
With starting prices ranging from below $14,000 to above $20,000 (US) the new Honda Civic has reasserted itself at the head of the class with exceptional fuel mileage, ride, braking, and literally in your face instrumentation.
Dad's view: Larger, more powerful, more expensive, and more refined, the Civic sedan easily is the best in this segment at this moment. The four-cylinder engine with either the 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic work well together. However, the engine gets quite loud when acceleration demands are accentuated. Other than that this is a fairly quiet ride. Braking and steering are exceptional for the price. Overall a marked improvement with room for four and hybrid like fuel mileage, but not a speed merchant.
College going male's view: Pay the extra and get the EX rather than the bargain priced DX or LX. You get alloy wheels, a moonroof, the split rear folding seatbacks, two extra speakers, steering wheel controls, and jack for plugging in your downloaded music players, hopefully filled with my CD at www.simple-thoughts.net, and most everything else. The upgraded stereo isn't too bad, the radio reception above average, and the whole package is tight.
Family conference: A new Civic that is worthy of your attention, but don't overlook the competition form Mazda and new Volkswagen. Best of all, don't forget those superior crash test scores and the available hotrod Si version. Also available as a hybrid, coupe, and sports coupe. For a list of all vehicle websites go to www.reacheverychild.com and click on business.
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2006 Honda Civic