Driving Impressions

Driving fun is standard equipment on any Civic, even the humblest model. Maximum fun adds about $4000 to the tab. What the extra money buys is honda's superb VTEC engine technology on the EX. The acronym denotes a powerplant with variable intake valve timing that, without getting into technicalities, allows the engine to operate with optimal efficiency at both high and low rpm. And operate it does: Peak horsepower is developed at a lofty 6600 rpm. And there's no serious penalty for turning the VTEC engine so fast, as it stays remarkably smooth right up to the point where its electronic rpm limiter steps in. The less-powerful but still responsive DX engine need not be wound as tight to extract maximum horsepower, but it develops less overall. We won't argue that you need the VTEC's extra 23 ponies; let's just say that you'd enjoy having them around to play with when conditions are right. Both engines are available with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled 4-speed automatic. The manual transaxle gets top marks for shift linkage and ratio selection, and the self-shifter rates highly for smooth operation. Both the DX and EX are a joy to drive on the open road. The EX offers more because the gutsier engine is teamed with an added front stabilizer bar, power-assisted steering (4-wheel disc anti-lock brakes are an EX option, which we strongly recommend on this or any other car) and larger tires. But you'll still marvel at the precise handling and responsiveness of the base model. Like all Hondas, the Civics use a fairly sophisticated suspension system compared with that of their competitors. And, like all Hondas, they're strong in the area of rigid chassis design. One downside to this wonder chassis is less-than-perfect ride quality. On smooth roads the Civic is just fine, transmitting little harshness through the body. Rough roads are another matter. But to be fair: This is a short, light car that manages to offer a better ride than most of its competition. it's just not in the same class as, say, a Honda Accord. If you are switching from another subcompact, you should have no complaints; those who are downsizing may find the Civic on the choppy side over broken pavement.

Final Word

So far, we've uncovered two points to criticize about the Honda Civic coupe (three if you want to count unadventurous styling as a demerit): Its ride quality isn't all you might want it to be and the rear seat is undersized. But guess what? You could fault almost every car in this class on one or both points - and find lots of other things to grumble about, too. For the price, either Civic coupe is an exceptional value. Aside from offering outstanding driving pleasure, both are reliable, efficient (the EX gets a 29 mpg city/35 mpg hwy. rating from the EPA; we averaged 33 mpg under a variety of conditions) and nicely finished cars. This is a mature, innovative, high-quality line of small cars that's among the best in the world. You may pay a bit of a premium versus some other cars in this class. But you get what you pay for - and more.