The Civic is available in sedans and coupes, and all are powered by – you choose – either conventional gasoline engines, or high-performance, hybrid, and even compressed natural gas engines.
For 2014, the list of upgrades includes a sportier exterior look for the Coupes; interior styling upgrades in all models; increased engine performance in all models except the Hybrid and Natural Gas ones; an available continuously variable transmission (CVT) for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency; and an available Display Audio with 7-inch “pinch, tap, and swipe” touchscreen. Also new on these models is a neat feature called “Honda LaneWatch,” which is a blind spot display that is activated when you turn on your right turn signal. A camera image of what is to your side and behind you comes up on the dashboard screen. At the very least, this informative device will get you to use your turn signals more often.
Honda Civics got a complete technology makeover in 2012, which is all present and accounted for in the 2014 models. These features include available “intelligent” Multi-Information Display, an available Eco Assist System and a new Motion Adaptive Electronic Power Steering system that works with the Vehicle Stability Assist, which is included as standard in all models. These models also have higher EPA fuel economy ratings – up by as much as 8 percent – on highway driving for models with automatic transmissions. Who wouldn’t crave an 8 percent savings on their fuel usage?
(Above): Interior view of the 2014 Honda Civic, shown with options.
Civic Sedans and Coupes continue to be available in such trims as the basic DX; the LX with is popular features; the EX with full features and the EX-L with luxury features. We test-drove the EX, a solid choice.
With so many Civic models to choose from, what sets each apart? The Civic HF is a “high fuel-economy” sedan equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission and is slotted between the Civic LX and Civic EX. It is rated for 41 miles per gallon on highway driving. The Honda Si coupe and sedan models are geared toward handling and performance, and have a sport-tuned suspension with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The Civic Hybrid uses an electric motor placed inline between the engine and transmission, and this model is also available as an Advanced-Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle, for those who really want to shrink their carbon footprint. Finally, the Civic Natural Gas engine is powered by a dedicated natural gas variant of the 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder engine found in the Civic sedan and coupe. It can produce 110-horsepower and 106 lb.-ft. of torque.
(Above): Exterior view of the 2014 Honda Civic, shown with options.
Our test car was the near top-of-the-line EX, and it was very nicely appointed, with such amenities as XM satellite radio, steering wheel mounted controls, cruise control, and Bluetooth Hands-free link. Also included was a host of state-of-the-art safety features, such as anti-lock brakes, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Vehicle Stability Assist, side-impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones, and ACE Body Structure for enhanced passenger safety.
Interior changes include a layout that moves such frequently referenced instruments as the speedometer right up in the drive’s line of sight, and less frequently used instruments down lower. Thinner A-pillars in the front help improve visibility, and C-pillars are positioned further in the back, which all helps to not only improve visibility, but give the impression of more interior space.
(Above): Exterior view of the 2014 Honda Civic.
On the road, the Honda Civic handles very nicely. The ride is smooth, quiet and yet responsive. Driver and front seat passenger seating is comfortable, with plenty of leg and headroom. The rear seat can accommodate three, but as this is a compact, the rear middle seat is a bit cramped. The floorboard is flat, which helps.
Overall, the 2014 Honda Civic offers drivers a ton of options in a nicely packaged and priced car. If you’re a commuter, student or empty nester, the Honda Civic, as always, will not disappoint.
!-- Start Alexa Certify Javascript -->
