This year's Honda has a larger engine and yet provides higher fuel economy. You've probably heard that before, but it continues to be this snappy vehicle's pattern. Some Civics will get as much as 44 mpg on the highway - and all Civics are ULEVs (Ultra Low Emission Vehicles). Enhancing the EX coupe we tested were standard antilock brakes and front side airbags are an available option. The driver sits a bit higher which helps visibility and the instrumentation is, as always, quite logical and straightforward.

The interior has grown... noticeably. The price of this expansion was the loss of the double wishbone front suspension, now replaced by struts. Most drivers won't notice the difference, unless you are a "road rally" kind of driver. The extra room (even the cupholders are bigger) does have distinct advantages in terms of comfort and cargo capacity, and since most Civic drivers like practicality, they'll like the new air space. It's a good quiet comfortable ride and still the choice for those whose vehicle must, above everything else, be practical.

- Editor

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