2003 Honda Civic

The Civic Hybrid is available with either a five-speed-manual gearbox or a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) that uses no gears but produces a steady flow of power while accelerating. CVT units are offered in several current gasoline-engine automobiles, including the Audi A4 and A6, Mini Cooper and Saturn Vue.

As installed in the Civic, the IMA system is more compact and operates with a greater degree of efficiency than the one used in the Insight. The new control unit is 30 percent lighter and 40 percent smaller than the Insight's. Friction at idle is said to be reduced by 50 percent.

The Civic Hybrid went on sale in April 2002 and is priced a little bit more than $20,000; it is also sold in Canada and Japan. "We view the Civic Hybrid as an investment in the future," Rech says. Next year, the Japanese automaker intends to introduce a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) version for the California market. Honda also plans to begin production of fuel-cell vehicles in 2003.

The latest Civic is still solid and substantial, but it's not markedly different from the prior generation. It is quiet on the road and easy and pleasant to drive, but it is a bit on the bland side in appearance and performance. But those aspects may easily be overshadowed by Honda's reputation for quality and dependability. In fact, consumers seeking a practical small sedan, especially one with a stick shift, need look no further. The Civic EX is about as good as the compact sedans get.

Throttle response in the 127-hp EX is good, but its automatic transmission reacts a bit slowly. However, the manual gearshift functions like the proverbial knife slicing through butter, and the clutch performs expertly. The only minor drawback is its inability to move at low speeds in higher gears because of the lack of low-speed engine torque.

The Civic's steering has a substantial feel, and it requires only modest effort. This car delivers excellent ride quality and is wholly capable and precise during tight maneuvers. The Civic is appealing and undeniably sensible, and the current models don't come across as overpowering or alluring. In a word, the Civic does everything a commuter car is supposed to do, and it performs well.