2007 Honda Civic

The Honda Civic has never been known as a stylish car but it has paved its way into the hybrid classification. Still not outwardly beautiful it is dependable and boasts its Hybrid status. Perfect for urban and suburban areas, it’s made for small families and makes a great starter car.

Now there have always been issues with space in this model, well it’s a little car and let’s face it if your over 6 foot it’s going to be tight in any of it’s seats. Two adults and two kids will fit comfortably. The seating is moderately comfortable and the trunk has decent space for groceries and luggage. The ride is adequate, though somewhat noisy. Not very peppy, it does maneuver well and is perfect for city driving with lots of stop and go. Now personally the long low nose of this car drives me insane. I cannot see the tip of the car so I hate parking it.

Big thing is, is that this model is a hybrid. The gas mileage can be great mattering on weather, temperature and driving style. This has got to be one of the touchiest systems ever created! MPG will be affected by the temperature, battery wear down, and if you have a lead foot forget about it. On average people seem to get 35-45 MPG some lower some into the higher 50 range. There are also computers in this car that tell you when you need an oil change. This is good for those who drive a lot but if you get to 6 months without needing one or you see a decrease in MPG, I would do one just to be on safe side. The cost is moderate and will range from $80- $190 with tune-ups. (Honda service costs are crazy expensive and this range covers just parts to service included)

If you own or plan to purchase this hybrid there are a few things to look out for. First look for recalls to be fixed. There have been quite a few put out on the hybrid and they include the electrical systems (lighting), engine cooling system, and wheels. Other common problems are: Electrical systems all over the car. They range from digital instruments panel to the wipers. Also there have been quite a few problems with the cooling system. That turns out to be a big reason for loss of mileage. If you take it in for loss of MPG and they can’t figure it out make sure they check the engine cooling system.

It’s not my favorite car in the world, but the Honda Civic is a good little economical car. I give it a 3 mostly because its system is so touchy. Once that kink is worked out it’ll be good to go.