2006 Honda Civic DX review from North America

There is a recall on it for the suspension, and my check engine light is on due to a faulty sensor (by the radiator).

This was my first basically new car. I had done a lot of research and read plenty of reviews. All in all, the Honda Civic is simply the most practical and economical choice of all the economy sedans currently available.

The styling is unique in a pleasant way, unlike the Nissan Versa. The interior is just as unique on the outside and does not disappoint in user-friendliness, although the digital speedometer does take some getting used to, as does the huge dashboard. That said, over the last year I've become accustomed to it and have started to see the logic in it. The placement of the speedometer means that I never really have to look away from the road, and the huge dash gives me a sense of space in, what is by design, a small car.

The road manners in the Honda Civic are also quite pleasing. Swift acceleration is most certainly possible although somewhat limited with the automatic. I find that it is best not to floor it but to almost floor it; the idea is to get the gear to downshift (not stay the same). With a 140HP under the hood, I won't really feel ill at ease on the highway when passing or merging in; although it does take some pedal pushing to get the Civic up to speed. On the subject of highway manners, the road and wind noise become quite pronounced at 120-140km/h but once again it is a matter of habit and once accustomed to it, the noise hardly intrudes upon conversation, although the stereo will need to be turned up a notch or two. Handling-wise, the Civic maintains its composure very well on the highway, and only becomes somewhat nervous at around 150-160 km/h.

The seats are generally comfortable, although as a tall person and a fan of the BMW seating position, I feel that my legs aren't stretched out enough and that I am still sitting (somewhat) high. However, that very trait may well appeal to many people whom prefer a more non-sporty seating position. Indeed, most people should be able to find a comfortable position, as the Civic comes standard with a tilt/ telescopic steering wheel and a height adjustable seat, in addition to the basic seat adjustments.

Overall the Civic is a great economy sedan and would suit the purpose of a student car, a second car or even a family car, as it has great fuel economy and great flexibility (as the rear seats can fold down to create much more cargo area).