Why the Honda Civic is a Popular Used Car
When it comes to cars that are durable, reliable, and easy to maintain, the Honda Civic is a top choice. Its reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and widespread popularity across various demographics has helped it maintain a strong presence in the market, especially in the compact car category.
Are Honda Civics Reliable?
With the Honda Civic's fuel economy being a top priority for many buyers, it’s no wonder the Civic continues to be a popular choice for those looking for an efficient and reliable car.
This compact car stands out thanks to its practicality, strong resale value, and trusted brand, making it a preferred option over its competitors. Owners frequently mention trouble-free ownership, and J.D. Power awarded the 2024 Civic a quality and reliability score of 82/100, surpassing the 2024 Toyota Corolla’s 79/100.
In this article, we will review the Honda Civic in all aspects, including its performance, design, and more.
Honda Civic Model Years & Key Updates
Differences Between Generations
Throughout the years, the Honda Civic has undergone significant changes, with each generation improving in design, comfort, and technology. While the early generations (primarily the first through third) focused on simplicity and affordability, the fourth and fifth generations introduced more refined styling.
From the sixth generation onward, the focus shifted to performance and tech-savviness, with the addition of sportier Honda Civic trims and more advanced features.
The eighth and ninth generations prioritized modern design, fuel efficiency, and improved technology, while the later models featured sportier styling and turbocharged engines.
Now in its eleventh generation, Honda's popular compact car is available in a variety of designs to meet the needs of different types of automobile buyers.
Notable Model Year Changes
Honda Civic 2006, 8th Generation
This generation is known for its modern and stylish design.
- Average Price: $8,917
- Resale Value: Starts at $3,235
- Major Redesign: This model year was completely redesigned, featuring a more aggressive and sporty exterior, along with a more extensive interior.
- Key Updates: The hybrid model was introduced along with improvements in handling.
- Tech Upgrades: Bluetooth connectivity and advanced audio options.
Honda Civic 2012, 9th generation
The design of this generation was less bold compared to the previous one, with a greater emphasis on comfort and practicality.
- Average Price: $16,020
- Resale Value: Starts at $6389
- Major Redesign: A more conservative exterior design, coupled with improved interior quality.
- Key Updates: Smoother rides, updated engine options, and better fuel economy.
- Tech Upgrades: Introduction of a touchscreen infotainment system.
Honda Civic 2016, 10th Generation
The 10th generation marked a return to sportier styling while incorporating modern tech and safety features.
- Average Price: $20,040
- Resale Value: Starts at $8,436
- Major Redesign: A complete redesign featuring a more premium and sporty exterior, along with a stiffer chassis for improved handling.
- Key Updates: Introduction of turbocharged 1.5L engines, offering better performance and fuel efficiency.
- Tech Upgrades: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Honda Sensing.
Honda Civic 2022, 11th Generation
The 11th generation offers a more premium feel while maintaining its sporty design and incorporating advanced technology.
- Average Price: Starts at $22,695
- Resale Value: $18,869
- Major Redesign: A sharper, more refined exterior design with a focus on higher-end features and improved quality.
- Key Updates: A 2.0L engine for better performance and the introduction of the Civic Si and Civic Type R models.
- Tech Upgrades: Advanced infotainment systems and improvements in safety tech, including Honda Sensing.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The standard model of the eighth generation (2006) featured a reliable 1.8L engine, while the Civic Si offered a sportier 2.0L alternative. The base model achieved up to 30 mpg on highways, with the hybrid variant reaching up to 45 mpg, offering strong fuel efficiency.
In the ninth generation (2012), the engine was improved, retaining the 1.8L engine while introducing a more powerful 2.4L in the Civic Si. The hybrid model's fuel efficiency increased to approximately 44 mpg.
The tenth generation marked the introduction of a turbocharged engine, further improving both performance and fuel efficiency. The turbo variant achieved up to 42 mpg on highways.
This trend continued in the 11th generation (2022), which offered a balance between a 2.0L engine for everyday driving and a 1.5L turbo for those seeking more power. The turbo model's fuel efficiency reached nearly 40 mpg on highways.
Interior, Comfort, and Features
Honda Civics are known for their well-thought-out interiors, which combine comfort, functionality, and modern features to appeal to a variety of drivers. Civics emphasize functionality without compromising style and are typically outfitted with comfortable seating, easy-to-use controls, and high-quality materials.
Below, we’ll compare how these traits vary across different Honda Civic trims.
LX vs EX Trim
- Interior & Comfort: The LX features a simple interior with cloth upholstery and manual-adjustable seats. The EX offers more comfort with premium cloth, power-adjustable front seats, and dual-zone climate control.
- Features: The EX is equipped with a larger 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with added features like a sunroof and Honda LaneWatch for extra safety—features that the LX lacks.
EX vs Touring Trim
- Interior & Comfort: The Touring trim offers a cabin with a more premium feel, featuring leather upholstery, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and memory seat settings. While the EX is comfortable, the Touring trim has more luxurious touches and higher-quality materials.
- Features: The Touring trim comes with a larger 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, wireless charging, and parking sensors, making it the top choice for those seeking more advanced tech and luxury features compared to the EX.
Si vs Type R Trim
- Interior & Comfort: The Si features a sporty interior with fabric upholstery, sports pedals, and a focus on driver engagement. The Type R takes it a step further with Recaro front seats, a more performance-oriented layout, and red and black accents.
- Features: Both trims come equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the Type R is more performance-focused, with aggressive suspension and enhanced driving dynamics, the Si provides a more comfortable ride with features like heated front seats.
Honda Civic Reliability and Safety Ratings
Tested 2024 and 2025 Honda Civic models earned a 5-star Overall Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for frontal, side, and rollover crash protection. The 2021 sedan earned a perfect score, and newer models have continued the trend.
IIHS Safety Awards
- The 2022 Civic sedan and hatchback were named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, receiving the highest honor for stellar crash test results and advanced headlights.
- The 2025 sedan retains the Top Safety Pick+ title, while the hatchback earned a Top Safety Pick, thanks to the Honda Sensing suite.
Common Reliability Issues and Recalls
The Civic’s golden years are from 2012 to 2015, earning scores of 83-86/100 from J.D. Power with minimal issues.
It’s best to avoid or exercise caution when purchasing the 2001-2004 model years, as these years are known for problematic Takata airbag issues and transmission failures.
The 2006-2008 models faced cracked engine blocks, which led to stalling and lawsuits. Additionally, the 2016 model saw a rise in complaints due to Bluetooth connectivity issues and AC unit problems.
Honda Civic Resale Value and Pricing
The Honda Civic is well known for its great resale value, routinely surpassing numerous rivals in the small car market. It’s an excellent choice for consumers seeking a vehicle that maintains its value over time.
2025 Honda Civic
Trim: LX, Sport, EX, Touring, Si, Type R
Price Range:
LX: $24,250
Sport: $25,350
EX: $27,050
Touring: $30,050
Si: $28,500
Type R: $45,000
2022 Honda Civic
Trim: LX, Sport, EX, Touring, Si
Price Range:
LX: $22,000 - $25,000
Sport: $23,000 - $27,000
EX: $25,500 - $27,000
Touring: $28,000 - $32,000
Si: $26,000 - $29,000
2016 Honda Civic
Trim: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, Si
Price Range:
LX: $12,000 - $14,500
EX: $14,500 - $17,500
EX-L: $17,000 - $19,500
Touring: $18,000 - $21,000
Si: $18,000 - $20,500
2012 Honda Civic
Trim: LX, EX, Si,
Price Range:
LX: $7,000 - $10,000
EX: $9,000 - $12,000
Si: $12,000 - $15,000
Buying Tips: What to Look for in a Used Honda Civic
When purchasing a used Honda Civic, consider key factors such as mileage, condition, and accident history. A Civic with fewer than 100,000 miles will generally show less wear and tear, although well-maintained high-mileage cars can still be reliable. To ensure regular oil changes, brake servicing, and other essential maintenance, always ask about the vehicle's maintenance history.
Additionally, to confirm that the vehicle hasn’t been involved in a significant incident that could affect its long-term dependability, be sure to verify its accident history through services like Carfax or AutoCheck.
Remember to:
- Always listen for unusual engine noises and check for signs of oil leakage. Inspect the transmission, as some older models (2001–2004) had issues with transmission failure.
- Ensure that the air conditioning system and other electrical components are functioning properly, as these can be common issues in older cars.
- Have a trusted mechanic conduct a pre-purchase inspection.
Honda Civic Model Years for Best Value
Look for a Honda Civic from the 2013–2015 and 2017–2019 model years to get the best deal. With used prices typically ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, depending on mileage and condition, the 2013–2015 Civics (ninth generation) strike a sweet spot of dependability, affordability, and great features like rearview cameras.
These models also have low maintenance costs and excellent fuel economy (30–32 mpg). The 2017–2019 models (tenth generation) offer modern technology, turbocharged engine options, and superior safety ratings.
Priced between $15,000 and $20,000, they strike a balance between newer features and depreciation, making them more affordable than the 2021–2022 models.
Is a Used Honda Civic Right for You?
For consumers on a tight budget who value reliability and affordability, purchasing a used Honda Civic is a smart choice. Civics are renowned for their longevity, and with regular maintenance, they can easily reach 200,000 miles, reducing the need for costly repairs.
Annual repair costs are relatively low, adding to its appeal as a reliable choice, and with great fuel economy, typically ranging from 30 to 40 MPG, you can save significantly on gas.
When you factor in lower insurance rates, thanks to the Civic’s safety ratings, it’s clear why this vehicle remains a top choice for practical, long-term ownership.
To explore a selection of used Honda Civic models, click here and find the perfect one for you. If you're weighing the Honda Civic against the Toyota Corolla, check out our article comparing the two.