Redesigned in 2009, the Honda Civic gets refreshed exterior and interior styling features comprised of updated headlight and taillight combination; new alloy wheel designs for Civic EX, Civic EX-L and Civic Si; and updated seating cloth materials for a more premium interior feel. For the sedan version prices are ranging from $15,655 to $25,340, and for the coupe version from $15,455 to $24,255.

The 2010 Civic (both sedan and coupe versions) are powered by a 1,8 liter inline 4-Cylinder engine with a total output of 140 hp. The SI versions get a 2,0 liter engine with an output of 197 hp. The standard model get either a 5-speed manual transmission, or a 5-speed automatic one. The SI version 6-speed manual one.

The technologies line-up includes: Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure; side curtain airbags; driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and dual-stage, dual-threshold driver’s and front passenger’s airbags (SRS).

UPDATE 06/18/2010: Check out our review of the 2010 Honda Civic by clicking here.

Press release after the jump.

2010 Honda Civic

Specifications

• Make: Array
• Model: 2010 Honda Civic
• [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

The 2010 Honda Civic lineup has its bases covered with technologically advanced Civic Sedan and Coupe models, a Civic Hybrid, a high-performance Civic Si and a dedicated natural gas-powered Civic GX. All Civics were recently enhanced inside and out for the 2009 model year with new exterior styling, colors and increased availability of tech-friendly features. For 2010, the entire range of Civics remains largely unchanged.

Enhancements carried over from 2009 include recently refreshed exterior and interior styling features comprised of updated headlight and taillight combinations; new alloy wheel designs for Civic EX, Civic EX-L and Civic Si; and updated seating cloth materials for a more premium interior feel.

“The Honda Civic meets the needs of a diverse audience with economical and fun-to-drive performance in a wide variety of choices and styles,” said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of product planning for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The Civic’s reputation for durability, quality and reliability helps it stand apart from the crowd.”

Built on a high-rigidity unit-body platform, the Civic is designed to deliver precise, sharp and refined handling performance with its MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.

Four engine and four transmission choices range from a 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine (Civic DX, DX-VP, LX, EX and EX-L), with either a 5-speed manual or an available 5-speed automatic transmission, to a 197-horsepower, 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine (Civic Si) with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Civic Hybrid is powered by a 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) gasoline-electric hybrid technology to enhance both fuel economy and performance, and is equipped with a continuously variable transmission.

The Civic GX is powered by a dedicated natural gas version of the Civic’s 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine – and is equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Both Civic Hybrid and Civic GX are classified as Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (AT-PZEV) by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The Civic GX is classified by the EPA as an Inherently Low Emissions Vehicle (ILEV).

The entire line-up maintains a standard array of safety technologies including Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure; side curtain airbags; driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and dual-stage, dual-threshold driver’s and front passenger’s airbags (SRS). Active front seat head restraints are designed to help reduce the likelihood of neck injury in the event of a rear collision.

Standard active safety features include an anti-lock brake system (ABS) and electronic brake distribution, front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system, and a pedestrian injury mitigation design incorporated into the front exterior of the vehicle. Driver and front passenger seatbelt reminders and daytime running lights are also standard equipment. The Civic EX-L, Civic Si and Civic Hybrid include Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), commonly referred to as electronic stability control, as standard safety content.

The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, available on Civic EX, EX-L, Si and Hybrid models, has a 6.5-inch motorized display that opens and closes for access to the internal single-disc CD player, and a digital audio-card reader that can play MP3 and Windows Media® Audio (WMA) files from CompactFlash® cards (via a PC card adapter).

The navigation system features more than 7 million points of interest and the voice activation can control the navigation menus and the audio system, along with entering city and street names. The system includes Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, a wireless telephone interface that works with compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile telephones for hands-free operation via steering wheel-mounted controls.

Auxiliary audio input jacks are standard equipment on Civic DX-VP and above trim levels, allowing for portable music device playback through the audio system. The Civic LX Coupe has a six-speaker 160-watt audio system with a CD player (four speakers for the DX-VP and LX sedan). All audio systems are capable of playing MP3- and WMA-formatted CDs. Standard Speed-sensitive Volume Control (SVC) automatically adjusts the volume based on vehicle speed. Audio displays include CD/MP3 text readout, and all coupes (except for the DX) plus the Civic Si Sedan provide a customizable welcome screen (exclusively on models without the available navigation system). 

Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe with 1.8-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine

The Civic lineup for both the Sedan and Coupe start with the value-rich Civic DX model equipped with a standard 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter, SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission (5-speed automatic available), power windows, 15-inch steel wheels with covers and P195/65R15 tires, and a folding rear seat. The Civic DX-VP Sedan adds air conditioning, a four-speaker 160-watt AM/FM Audio System with CD player (MP3/WMA enabled), and an auxiliary audio input jack.

The Civic LX adds or upgrades: cruise control, power door locks, 16-inch steel wheels with covers, P205/55R16 tires, keyless entry, center console with sliding armrest, progressive blue illumination instrument panel meters, auto up and down driver’s power window, and a folding rear seat.
The Civic LX-S Sedan adds or upgrades: alloy wheels, LX-S-exclusive sport-trimmed black cloth seats with synthetic suede bolsters and silver stitching, LX-S-exclusive leather-wrapped steering wheel, LX-S-exclusive rear-deck spoiler, and a chrome exhaust finisher.

The Civic EX Sedan and Coupe adds or upgrades: a one-touch power moonroof, a 60/40 split folding rear seat, ambient console lighting, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and the availability of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Activation, which also includes XM Satellite Radio.

The Civic EX-L adds or upgrades: leather-trimmed seating surfaces, console, steering wheel and shift knob; heated seats; and heated door mirrors.The Civic EX Coupe and EX-L Coupe exclusively feature a 7-speaker with subwoofer AM/FM audio system with CD player (MP3/WMA enabled).

Civic Si Sedan and Coupe (2.0-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine)

The Civic Si Sedan and Coupe serve as the performance cornerstone for the Civic lineup with a 197-horsepower, 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0 liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine mated to a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission. A helical-type, limited-slip differential enhances traction in high-performance driving situations. The Civic Si’s sport-tuned suspension adds firm spring, damper and stabilizer bar tuning along with exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels and high-performance tires. Exclusive exterior features include a rear wing spoiler (low profile on the sedan) and Si emblems. The sports-oriented interior adds firmly-bolstered and performance oriented sport-trimmed black cloth seats with synthetic suede bolsters and red stitching. For 2010, the only cosmetic change to the Civic Si is the color of the engine cover switching from silver to black.

Civic Hybrid (1.3-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with IMA)

The Civic Hybrid with advanced Integrated Motor Assist IMA® hybrid technology achieves an EPA-estimated city/highway fuel economy of 40/45 miles per gallon and includes Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and an available leather-trimmed interior with heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and heated side mirrors. The Civic Hybrid is certified by the California Air Resource Board (CARB) as an Advanced-Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV). A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard equipment.

The Civic Hybrid can deactivate all four of its cylinders and operate using only the electric motor in certain low-speed cruising situations. Power for the Civic Hybrid is provided by a 1.3-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and a 15 kilowatt electric motor, producing a combined 110-horsepower @ 6000 rpm and combined 123 lb-ft. of torque @ 1000-2500 rpm.

Civic GX (1.8-liter i-VTEC engine, dedicated natural gas vehicle)

The ultra-clean Civic GX produces near zero emissions and enables owners to become eligible for a $4,000 federal tax credit. The 2010 Civic GX is the only dedicated natural gas-powered passenger car available to retail customers in the United States and achieves an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 24/36 miles per gasoline-gallon5. Currently, natural gas is approximately 35 percent less expensive than gasoline when purchased at a refueling station. The Civic GX is the only vehicle certified by the EPA to meet both Federal Tier 2-Bin 2 and Inherently Low Emission Vehicle (ILEV) zero evaporative emission certification standards. The Civic GX is available to consumers at qualified Honda dealers in the states of California, Utah and New York and is also available to fleet customers nationwide from qualified Honda dealers.

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Specifications

Engineering

• Engine Type - In-Line 4-Cylinder
• Engine Block/Cylinder Head - Aluminum-Alloy
• Displacement (cc) - 1799
• Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net) - 140 @ 6300
• Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) - 128 @ 4300
• Redline (rpm) - 6800
• Bore and Stroke (mm) - 81 x 87.3
• Compression Ratio - 10.5:1
• Valve Train -    16-Valve SOHC i-VTEC®
• Multi-Point Fuel Injection
• Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System
• Front-Wheel Drive
• CARB Emissions Rating - ULEV-2
• Direct Ignition System with Immobilizer
• 100K +/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-Ups

Si

• Engine Type  - In-Line 4-Cylinder
• Engine Block/Cylinder Head - Aluminum-Alloy
• Displacement (cc) - 1998
• Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net) - 197 @ 7800
• Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) - 139 @ 6100
• Redline (rpm) - 8000
• Bore and Stroke (mm) - 86 x 86
• Compression Ratio - 11.0:1
• Valve Train - 16-Valve DOHC i-VTEC®
• Stainless Steel Exhaust Manifold - Standard
• Multi-Point Fuel Injection - Standard
• Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System - Standard
• Front-Wheel Drive - Standard
• CARB Emissions Rating -    LEV-2
• Direct Ignition System with Immobilizer
• 100K +/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-Ups

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission - DX/DX-VP; LX/LX-S; EX/EX-L
• Compact 5-Speed Automatic Transmission - option
• Close-Ratio 6-Speed Manual Transmission - SI

Body/Suspension/Chassis

• Unit-Body Construction - Standard
• MacPherson Strut Front Suspension - Standard
• Multi-Link Rear Suspension - Standard
• Stabilizer Bar (mm, front/rear) - 27.0 (solid) / 17.0
• Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS)     Standard
• Steering Wheel Turns, Lock-to-Lock - 2.65
• Steering Ratio     13.62
• Turning Diameter, Curb-to-Curb (ft) - 35.4
• Power-Assisted Ventilated Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes     11.8 / 10.2
• Wheels     17" Alloys
• All-Season Tires - P215 / 45 R17 87V
• Michelin® Pilot® Exalto® PE2™ Performance Tires (available) - 215 / 45 ZR17 91W
• Compact Spare Tire - Standard

Exterior Measurements

• Wheelbase (in) 106.3
• Length (in) 177.3
• Height (in) 56.5
• Width (in) 69.0
• Track (in, front/rear)     59.0 / 60.2
• Curb Weight (lbs, MT/AT) 2954 / NA
• Weight Distribution (%, front/rear, MT) 60 / 40

Interior Measurements

• Headroom (in, front/rear) 38.1 / 36.7
• Legroom (in, front/rear) 42.2 / 34.6
• Shoulder Room (in, front/rear) 53.6 / 52.3
• Hiproom (in, front/rear) 51.9 / 51.0
• Cargo Volume (cu ft) 12.0
• Passenger Volume (cu ft) 88.4
• Seating Capacity 5

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Prices and Options

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Competitors and press reviews

"You must keep the engine at a higher rev count than usual to keep it from bogging down when you need to achieve even the slightest amount of acceleration. This creates more cabin noise (the racecar thing gets old on the way to work), but it also means you'll be shifting more. That certainly has some appeal thanks to the Civic's buttery-smooth six-speed shifter and perfectly modulated clutch, but it's more work nevertheless. Despite this high-end power delivery, though, the Honda Civic Si is easier to drive than previous peaky Honda engines. When driven conservatively, there's a refined nature to its gearing and throttle tip-in that allows for smooth acceleration. Indeed, unlike some other souped-up versions of humble compact cars, the Si is just as easy to drive as the regular Civic." (Edmunds)

"Regardless of power-train configuration, the Civic handles like a mountain goat. Blasting down off-ramps, the Civic feels surefooted and inspires confidence in the vehicle's abilities. Winding through twisty mountain roads, the steering is precise, with just a hint of understeer to let you know when the limits are being approached. On congested city streets, the Civic's precise handling and low steering effort makes short work of weaving through traffic, dodging potholes, and parallel parking." (Cnet)

Competitors

Mitsubishi Lancer

The Mitsubishi Lancer will be offered four different trim levels for 2010, with output ranging from 152 HP and going all the way up to 237 HP with prices ranging from $14,790 to $27,190. The Lancer DE and SE versions are powered by a 2.0 Liter DOHC MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system) four cylinder engine pumping out 143 HP at 6,000 RPM and 143 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 RPM. The GTS version will get a 2.4 Liter DOHC MIVEC four cylinder making 168 HP and 167 lb-ft of torque, finally the top of the line Ralliart model gets a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0 Liter four cylinder boosted to 237 HP and 253 lb-ft of torque.

Kia Forte

The 2010 Forte is being offered in three different trims: EX, LX and SX. Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0 Liter DOHC four cylinder engine, producing 156 HP and 144 lb-ft of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection. The SX features an upgraded 2.4 Liter inline four cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 HP. Prices range from $13,695 to $18,495.

Kia Forte Koup

The Forte Coupe will be offered in EX and SX versions, with prices starting at $16,595 and $17,695, respectively. The Koup will be available with either a 2.0 Liter four cylinder making 156 HP and a larger 2.4 Liter four banger putting out 173 HP. In either case, both engines are mated to either a six speed manual or a five speed automatic transmission.

Conclusion

And how not everyone can drive 500 hp sports car, we have the Honda Civic, a car that is perfect for both you and your family. And with the SI version you can even drive a sporty car. The Civic offers spacious interiors, a perfect driving position, it has quick reflex and slick shifter. And of course it offers a great fuel economy.

With the SI version you will be able to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under 7 seconds, so here you have a rather fast car. And compared to most of is competitors the Civic is about $2,000 cheaper. But in the same time it lacks the the premium feel of most of them. But a short test drive will tell you if this is the car for you.