2006 Honda Civic

Honda Civic line has been dominating its space since it was introduced in 1973. 2006 marks the line's eighth generation, and Honda calls this year's models the “most changed” since the line's introduction.

The 2006 lineup offers four players: the Civic sedan and coupe, Civic Si coupe and Civic Hybrid sedan.

Three new engines offer the promise of greater performance and efficiency: a 197-horsepower V-4 engine in the Civic Si and a gasoline/electric powertrain in the Civic Hybrid. Regular Civic coupes and sedans use a new 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder that produces 140 hp and 128 pounds-feet of torque. Honda has made the claim that its power output is comparable to a 2.0-liter engine with the fuel economy comparable to a 1.5-liter motor. All models some standard with drive-by-wire throttle control. A five-speed-manual transmission is standard, with an available five-speed automatic.

Honda is justifiably proud of safety improvements made to the Civic line, including its Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure that reduces vehicle-to-vehicle crash impact and improves collision energy management. All Civic models come standard with side-impact and side curtain-type airbags, active front-seat head restraints and antilock brakes.

Honda calls the 2006 Civic "an extreme transformation of design and dynamics, and says it features an "expressive and futuristic design." The company may be thinking of such design touches as a steeply raked windshield, small front and rear overhangs, and reduced tire/fender gaps.

The Civic sedan is 1.4 inches longer than the 2005 model, and has a 3.2-inch longer wheelbase. The car width has grown by 1.5 inches, and front and rear track widths have also increased. The new model is also about 5 percent heavier. Coupes are 0.6 inches shorter overall and 1.4 inches wider and have a wheelbase that's 1.2 inches longer. Height has been shortened by 1.6 inches. DX models sport 15-inch tires, but LX and EX versions receive 16-inch rubber.

Inside, the five-passenger Civic, the driver is confronted by a two-tier instrument panel and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Honda's satellite-linked navigation system with voice recognition is available in Si, Hybrid and EX models, as is XM Satellite Radio.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, side-impact and side curtain-type airbags, and active head restraints in the front seats.