Honda is determined to keep its legendary compact at the top of its game. A new generation bowed for 2012, followed by a thorough refresh the next year. For 2014, the Civic comes in for yet another round of improvements.
What's New for 2014
Coupe models carry revised front and rear fascias, and all Civics get a boost in interior trim quality. The standard gasoline engine makes a few more horsepower, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) replaces last year’s five-speed automatic. The base coupe receives firmer suspension tuning as does the sporty Si. New features include keyless start, smartphone integration and a blind spot camera.
Choosing Your Civic
Most Civics are powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine good for 143 horsepower, matched to the new CVT. A five-speed manual is offered on the base sedan only. The Si gets a separate drivetrain: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 205 horsepower and a six-speed manual. All Civics are available as a coupe or sedan.
The mode lineup is rather extensive and covers a lot of market territory:
The entry-level LX represents the best overall value in light of its ample standard equipment and low price. It’s our pick of the bunch, unless you really must have performance, in which case the Si is the only way to go.