2019 Honda Civic

Pros: Roomy interior; crisp handling; economical powertrains; “Honda Sensing” safety features are available on almost all trim levels

Cons: Touchscreen controls aren’t easy to use while driving; so-so acceleration; noisier than many compact-car rivals; ride can get a bit stiff over rough pavement

CG Says: The 2019 Honda Civic now has the “Honda Sensing” suite of safety equipment (lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning and mitigation, and adaptive cruise control) standard on all models except Si and R. Previously, Honda Sensing was only standard on top trim levels. Civic sedan and coupe bodystyles now offer Sport models. Last year, Sport trim was only available for hatchbacks. There is also a new audio control screen that includes a volume knob. Civic is a compact car available as a 4-door sedan, 4-door hatchback, and 2-door coupe. Civic offers the choice of a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder or a turbocharged 1.5-liter four in most models. The 1.5-liter engine develops 174 hp, 180 hp, or 205 hp in performance Si. (See engine chart below.) The low-production Type R is powered by a 305-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Among Civic’s available features are remote engine start, rain-sensing wipers, heated rear seats, dual-zone climate control, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality for the infotainment system. Civic’s 2016 redesign put Honda back at the top of the incredibly competitive compact-car class. Some of its rivals are quieter, and some offer more features for the money, but the Civic’s spaciousness, available tech features, engaging driving personality, efficiency, and all-around refinement—not to mention its model lineup—make it a compact-car must-see.