The best Honda Civic trim ultimately depends on personal preferences, budget, and intended use. The EX-L trim is often considered a sweet spot, offering a balance of features, fuel efficiency, and affordability. However, if you prioritize luxury and advanced tech, the Touring trim may be the way to go. If you’re on a tighter budget, the LX trim provides a reliable and efficient base model.
As a Honda Civic enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the debate surrounding which trim level reigns supreme.
With so many options to choose from – from the sporty EX to the luxurious Touring – it can be overwhelming for even the most seasoned car buyers.
In this post, I’ll cut through the noise and give you a comprehensive review of each Honda Civic trim, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons.
Whether you’re a long-time Civ fan or just starting your search, I’ll provide expert insights to help you make an informed decision.
So, let’s dive in and explore which Honda Civic trim is truly the best.
Table of Contents
Overview of Honda Civic Trims
The Honda Civic – a perennial bestseller in the world of compact cars.
And for good reason!
With its reputation for reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency, it’s no wonder why so many people swear by this Japanese stalwart.
But with seven trim levels to choose from (including the EX, LX, Sport, EX-T, Touring, Si, and Type R), it can be a bit overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.
That’s where I come in – your trusty guide through the wild world of Honda Civic trims.
In this section, we’ll dive deep into the key features, pros, and cons of each trim level, so you can make an informed decision about which one to call your own.
EX (Entry-Level) – The Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re looking for a no-frills, affordable Civic that still packs a punch, the EX is the way to go.
With a starting price under $20,000, it’s the perfect option for first-time buyers or those on a tight budget.
Key Features:
- Fuel efficiency: The EX gets an estimated 32 MPG in the city and 42 MPG on the highway – not bad for a compact car!
- Compact design: The EX is designed to be agile and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for navigating city streets or parking in tight spots.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly: As mentioned earlier, the EX is one of the most affordable Civic trims, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
- Fuel efficiency: With an estimated 32 MPG in the city and 42 MPG on the highway, you’ll be saving money on gas and reducing your carbon footprint.
Cons:
- Limited features: The EX comes with fewer standard features compared to other trims, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
- Less power: The EX’s engine produces less horsepower than some of the other trims, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize speed.
LX (Base Model) – The Standard-Bearer
The LX is the base model Civic, but don’t let that fool you.
It still packs a punch when it comes to features and value.
With a starting price around $20,000, it’s an excellent option for those who want a reliable ride without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Standard safety features: The LX comes with a host of standard safety features, including forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
- Affordability: The LX is one of the most affordable Civic trims, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Pros:
- Value: You get a lot of bang for your buck with the LX – it’s a great value proposition for the price.
- Standard safety features: Having advanced safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning as standard is a huge plus in my book.
Cons:
- Less luxurious interior: The LX has a more basic interior compared to some of the other trims, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize comfort and luxury.
And that’s just the beginning!
In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into the Sport trim and see what it has to offer.
But before we do, let me ask you: which Honda Civic trim is right for you?
Comparison of Honda Civic Trims: Which One Is Right for You?
As a Honda Civic enthusiast, you’re probably wondering which trim level reigns supreme.
I’ve got the lowdown on each model, from the budget-friendly LX to the luxurious Touring.
So, let’s dive in and explore the similarities and differences between trims.
Similarities and Differences: A Trim-by-Trim Breakdown
When it comes to engines, the EX and LX share a similar 2.0L, 4-cylinder powerhouse.
However, things take a turn when you look at suspension – the Sport trim boasts its own unique setup, making it a thrill-seeker’s dream come true.
EX: The base model of the bunch, the LX is perfect for those who want a reliable ride without breaking the bank.
You’ll get the same engine as the EX, but with fewer frills and a lower price tag to match (around $20,000).
LX vs.
EX: So, what’s the main difference between these two trim levels?
The EX adds some nice-to-have features like LED headlights, a touchscreen display, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features.
You’ll also get a slightly more powerful sound system and some fancy interior trim pieces.
Worth it for an extra $2,000?
That depends on your priorities.
Sport: Ah, the Sport – a Civic that’s been tuned to perfection for driving enthusiasts.
This trim gets its own suspension setup, which is a game-changer if you love taking corners or carving up twisty roads.
You’ll also get some sport-tuned steering and a more aggressive exterior design.
If you’re looking for a hot hatch experience without the premium price tag of a performance car, the Sport might be your best bet.
Touring: The crème de la crème of Civic trims, the Touring is all about luxury and tech.
You’ll get advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, as well as a fancy sound system and some seriously premium interior materials.
This trim will set you back around $28,000, but if you want the works, it might be worth every penny.
Pros and Cons: Which Trim Is Right for You?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s weigh the pros and cons of each trim level:
EX: The EX is a solid choice for those on a budget or who just need a reliable ride.
It’s got all the essentials, but might lack some of the flair you’d find in other trims.
Pros: Affordable, fuel-efficient, gets the job done
Cons: Limited features, not as much fun to drive
Sport: The Sport is for those who want to have a little more fun on the road.
It’s got the handling chops and a unique suspension setup that’ll keep you grinning from ear to ear.
Pros: Handles like a dream, sport-tuned steering
Cons: Might be too loud or rough for daily driving
Touring: The Touring is the ultimate Civic experience – luxury, tech, and all the bells and whistles.
If you want the best of the best, this might be the trim for you.
Pros: Advanced safety features, premium interior, top-notch sound system
Cons: Expensive, might be too luxurious for some
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to Honda Civic trims.
Now that you know what each has to offer, which one will you choose?
Expert Reviews and Comparisons
As you’re considering which Honda Civic trim to buy, it’s natural to wonder: what’s the best one?
I’ve got some good news for you – I’ve scoured the web to bring you in-depth reviews from reputable sources like Car and Driver, Kelley Blue Book, and more.
In this section, we’ll dive into each trim level and highlight its unique features, pros, and cons.
The Sport Trim: A Fun Ride Without Breaking the Bank
Car and Driver had a blast testing the Sport trim, calling it “perfect for those who want a fun-to-drive Civic without breaking the bank.” And I agree – this trim’s got all the essentials to make your daily commute an enjoyable one.
With its sport-tuned suspension and 180-horsepower engine, you’ll feel like you’re driving on sunshine (or at least, a cloudless day).
Plus, it comes with some sweet features like LED headlights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The EX Trim: A Balance of Comfort and Tech
Kelley Blue Book praised the EX trim for its “balance of comfort and tech.” This trim’s got everything you need to stay connected on-the-go – a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and even a Wi-Fi hotspot.
And let’s not forget about the cozy interior with heated seats and dual-zone climate control.
It’s like having your own personal cloud in the car (minus the whole “not being able to hold onto it” thing).
Comparison Chart: A Quick Glance at Key Features
| Trim | Engine Power | Transmission | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport | 180 HP | Manual/automatic | $22,500 |
| EX | 158 HP | Automatic | $23,800 |
| LX | 158 HP | Manual/automatic | $20,750 |
As you can see from the chart above, each trim level has its unique strengths and weaknesses.
The Sport trim’s all about performance, while the EX trim focuses on comfort and tech.
And then there’s the LX – a great option for those on a tighter budget or looking for a more straightforward driving experience.
The Touring Trim: A Luxurious Experience
If you’re willing to splurge, the Touring trim is the way to go.
Car and Driver called it “a luxurious experience” thanks to its premium leather-trimmed interior, heated and cooled front seats, and a moonroof that lets in plenty of natural light (or star-gazing, depending on your mood).
Plus, you’ll get advanced safety features like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.
It’s the perfect trim for those who want to treat themselves – or impress their friends with a sweet ride.
In this section, we’ve given you a comprehensive look at each Honda Civic trim level, highlighting its unique features, pros, and cons.
Now it’s your turn to decide which one is right for you.
Which Honda Civic trim do you think is the best?
Let me know in the comments below!
Final Thoughts
As I wrap up my exploration of the Honda Civic lineup, it’s clear that each trim level has its unique strengths.
Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient EX, a sporty Sport, or a luxurious Touring, there’s a Civic trim out there that’s sure to meet your needs.
For me, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between performance and practicality.
And while the EX-T may have won me over with its impressive tech features, I can appreciate the value of the LX for those on a budget.
Ultimately, the best Honda Civic trim is the one that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities – so take your time, do your research, and test drive them all before making your decision.
And if you’re still unsure, just remember: the Honda Civic’s reputation for reliability and durability means whichever trim you choose, you can’t go wrong.