Many generations of drivers will happily tell you that the Honda Civic is a quick, fun, reliable and affordable car. Fast forward to today and that statement continues to ring true. The 2021 Honda Civic is now available in either a sedan or 5-door hatchback for added convenience. The hatchback is available in the Sport or Sport Touring models and both are powered by a turbocharged 1.5 liter engine that outputs 180 horsepower. Despite the Civic sitting in the lower end of the Honda lineup, it still packs plenty of modern and safety standard features including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
For 2021, Honda has ditched the coupe body in favor of better practicality. That coincidently stacks right up against the Mazda 3 that also comes in either a compact sedan, or a 5-door hatchback. Honda also plans to debut its all-new 2022 model year this Spring as well, so if you are not in a rush, it may be better to hold out for the new release.
While Honda may not be known for exquisite styling, the 2021 Civic’s interior offers modern aesthetics within practical terms. It’s roomy and the 60/40 split rear-folding seats add additional storage for both the compact sedan, and the roomier 5-door hatchback variant. Most enticing about the Civic is the go-kart-like driving position that offers excellent front visibility while sitting low to the ground.
All trims receive a comprehensive 7” infotainment system. The top-of-the-line Sport Touring trim adds a Satellite-Linked navigation system with HD digital traffic and voice recognition. Audio is also upgraded to a boomy 452-watt 10-speaker sound system with an additional subwoofer for added bass.
The peppy 1.5 liter turbocharged engine helps the 2021 Honda Civic zip around at lower speeds and cruise quietly at higher speeds. The available 6-speed manual transmission brings the most enthusiasm out of the Civic, but the alternate CVT transmission should not be neglected with its ability to mimic an automatic transmission with available steering-mounted paddle shifters, proving to be both fun and engaging. Like its predecessors, the 2021 Honda Civic hatchback will come in a front-wheel drive configuration only.
It’s a bit shocking to hear VTEC has been replaced by the more modern and industry-standard turbocharged and direct-injection 1.5-liter engine. However, our test drive quickly revealed the light and nimble response that we all know and love about the Civic. With 180 horsepower, the Civic is quick off its feet and handles corners surprisingly well thanks to its low curb weight.
The Sport trim can be had for as little as $32,515 and comes well equipped and works great for those on a tight budget. The Sport Touring upgrade adds leather seats, LED headlights, navigation, upgraded audio system and many other convenience features and comes in at $36,015.
