Honda forever
Stop looking for signs of foreign influence in the Honda Civic Hybrid. As far as styling, functionality and performance are concerned, this car is a Honda through and through. Compared to direct rivals, it has nothing to envy.
The Civic Hybrid positions itself as a highly fuel-efficient, decently comfortable passenger car.
Nothing spectacular
Because it uses a hybrid powertrain, namely Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), this Japanese compact is primarily driven by a desire to safe fuel, so forget massive power and electrifying accelerations. On the other hand, it proves extremely resourceful and fearless in stop-and-go traffic. Provided that you're not in a real hurry, the dependable Civic Hybrid will safely get you to your destination.
While its 1.3L 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine generates 110 horsepower without overly moaning, don't expect it to deliver explosive bursts of speed, especially with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) this hybrid is mated to. Engine speed always remains in its sweet spot, thereby maximizing fuel economy, regardless of driving conditions.
Thusly equipped, the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid allows you to make substantial savings at the pump. While the automaker's ratings are way too optimistic, it's not so hard to maintain an average fuel economy of under 6 L/100 km if you're just a tad careful.
Basic assist
Unlike another Japanese hybrid, the Toyota Prius, the Civic Hybrid saves more fuel on the highway than in the city. Sure, it does rely on the "Stop 'n Go" system, which shuts off the gasoline engine when you come to a full stop, but the electric motor alone can't move the car: as soon as you release the brake pedal and depress the throttle, the 4-cylinder springs back to life.
However, on the highway or under acceleration, the IMA technology is fully operational, providing electric assistance to reduce fuel consumption.
Stop looking for signs of foreign influence in the Honda Civic Hybrid. As far as styling, functionality and performance are concerned, this car is a Honda through and through. Compared to direct rivals, it has nothing to envy.
The Civic Hybrid positions itself as a highly fuel-efficient, decently comfortable passenger car.
 |
| The Civic Hybrid positions itself as a highly fuel-efficient, decently comfortable passenger car. |
Nothing spectacular
Because it uses a hybrid powertrain, namely Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), this Japanese compact is primarily driven by a desire to safe fuel, so forget massive power and electrifying accelerations. On the other hand, it proves extremely resourceful and fearless in stop-and-go traffic. Provided that you're not in a real hurry, the dependable Civic Hybrid will safely get you to your destination.
While its 1.3L 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine generates 110 horsepower without overly moaning, don't expect it to deliver explosive bursts of speed, especially with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) this hybrid is mated to. Engine speed always remains in its sweet spot, thereby maximizing fuel economy, regardless of driving conditions.
Thusly equipped, the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid allows you to make substantial savings at the pump. While the automaker's ratings are way too optimistic, it's not so hard to maintain an average fuel economy of under 6 L/100 km if you're just a tad careful.
Basic assist
Unlike another Japanese hybrid, the Toyota Prius, the Civic Hybrid saves more fuel on the highway than in the city. Sure, it does rely on the "Stop 'n Go" system, which shuts off the gasoline engine when you come to a full stop, but the electric motor alone can't move the car: as soon as you release the brake pedal and depress the throttle, the 4-cylinder springs back to life.
However, on the highway or under acceleration, the IMA technology is fully operational, providing electric assistance to reduce fuel consumption.
 |
| The 1.3L 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine generates 110 horsepower without overly moaning. |