The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid Base is a Front-wheel drive Sedan. It can accommodate up to 5 passengers. It has 4 Doors and is powered by a 1.3L L4 SOHC 16-valve + electric motor engine which outputs 110 hp @ 6000 rpm and is paired with Continuously Variable Transmission gearbox. The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid Base has cargo capacity of 294 Liters and the vehicle weighs 1341 kg. In terms of ride assists, the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid Base has stability control and traction control in addition to anti-lock brake system (ABS). The vehicle has an optional engine as well It offers and. Safety features also include Driver-side front airbag and Passenger-side front airbag. The front suspension is Independent front suspension while the rear suspension is Independent rear suspension. The car also features a It has 15'' alloy wheels as standard. Electronic features include Cruise Control. For convenience, the car has Power windows and Power door locks. There is also a remote keyless entry feature. Moreover, the car has. The steering wheel has audio control buttons. In terms of performance, the car has 120 N.m of torque and a top speed of 176 km/h. The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid Base accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 10.7 seconds and hits quarter mile at 17.9 seconds. Fuel consumption is 4.7 L/100km in the city and 4.3 L/100km in the highway. The car price starts at $ 26,350
| Name | Base | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $ 26,350 | |
| Body | Sedan | |
| Doors | 4 Doors | |
| Engine | 1.3L L4 SOHC 16-valve + electric motor | |
| Power | 110 hp @ 6000 rpm | |
| Number of Seats | 5 Seats | |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission | |
| Cargo Space | 294.0 L | |
| Maximum Cargo Space | 294.0 L | |
| Wheel Type | 15'' alloy wheels | |
| Series | Civic VIII sedan | |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | |
| Horsepower | 110 HP | |
| Torque | 120 N.m | |
| Top Speed | 176 km/h | |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) | 10.7 s | |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Fuel Consumption (City) | 4.7 L/100km | |
| Fuel Consumption (Highway) | 4.3 L/100km | |
| Gear Type | manual | |
| Weight | 1,182 KG | |
| Brand | Honda | |
| Model | Civic | |
| 0-400m (Quarter Mile) | 17.9 s | |
| 0-400m (Quarter Mile) - Speed | 128.8 km/h | |
| 0-800m (Half Mile) | 29.6 s | |
| 0-800m (Half Mile) - Speed | 145.0 km/h | |
| Modifications (MODS) | ||
| Modifications Cost | $ 0 |
| Used Condition | Trade In Price | Private Party Price | Dealer Retail Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding | $ 2,885 | $ 3,911 | $ 4,471 |
| Clean | $ 2,631 | $ 3,577 | $ 4,092 |
| Average | $ 2,123 | $ 2,909 | $ 3,334 |
| Rough | $ 1,615 | $ 2,241 | $ 2,576 |
Comfortable, smartly designed and available in a wide array of configurations, the 2008 Honda Civic sets the bar for the small car segment.

In 1973, Honda introduced the Civic to American shores. Small, fuel-efficient and reliable, the Civic was an ideal small car solution to rising gas prices and increased environmental awareness. Now, 35 years later, Americans are faced with similar issues, and again the Civic stands at the ready.

Of course, history hasn't quite repeated itself. The 2008 Honda Civic is considerably heavier and more luxurious than its pint-sized forbear. It's not even the company's smallest car anymore -- that role is handled by the Fit. But for the average small car shopper, the Civic remains the quintessential choice. We're quite fond of the current-generation Civic -- it was last redesigned in 2006 -- and it's one of America's best-selling cars.

There are plenty of reasons to choose the Civic. First among them is the car's wide array of configurations. The Civic is one of the few small car offerings to be sold as a sedan and a sportier-looking coupe. A fixed, minimal-options trim level architecture, ranging from the budget-oriented DX to the top-level EX, makes picking a Civic a relatively straightforward affair.

There are also the specialized Civic Si, Hybrid and GX models. In Si trim, the Civic is one of the most sporting small cars available for the money, while the Hybrid, thanks to its gasoline/electric powertrain, can deliver 40-plus mpg in real-world driving. The Civic GX is truly an oddity -- it runs on natural gas and can be fueled at home via a special "Phill" hook-up. The GX is the most expensive Civic, but in return it's America's cleanest mass-production car in terms of tailpipe emissions.

A new addition this year is the Honda Civic Mugen Si sedan. Built on the foundation of the Civic Si sedan and tuned by the prestigious racing and aftermarket performance company Mugen, this model comes with a track-tuned suspension, 18-inch forged alloy lightweight wheels with special tires, a full aerodynamic body kit with an adjustable rear wing spoiler, a rear diffuser and a sport-tuned exhaust system. Only 1,000 of these models will be sold, and they're priced in the very un-Civic-like territory of $ 30,000.

No matter what the trim, the Civic's traditional strengths in comfort, interior design and safety are all still firmly intact. The Civic also holds its value better than many other small cars and has a reputation for above-average reliability. Though we suggest doing a bit of comparison shopping -- the sporty Mazda 3, affordable Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Rabbit/Jetta are also very good choices -- the 2008 Honda Civic remains an ideal pick for a small sedan or coupe.

The 2008 Honda Civic is a small car available as a sedan or coupe. For both, there are five main trim levels: DX, LX, EX, EX-L and Si. On the Civic sedan, Honda also offers the Hybrid, the GX and the Mugen Si. The DX is meant for those on a tight budget and offers little more than power windows, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a height-adjustable driver seat. The more popular midgrade LX comes with 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control and a four-speaker CD/MP3 audio system with an auxiliary audio jack.

Going with a Civic EX gets you 16-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, six-speaker audio with steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a 60/40-split rear seatback with a rear armrest. This year's new Civic EX-L comes with leather upholstery and heated front seats. The Civic Si has most of the EX's features plus a high-output engine, sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, a premium audio system and special interior trim. High-performance summer tires are an option for the Si, and a navigation system is offered for the Si and EX/EX-L models. Hybrid models are equipped similarly to the EX and have automatic climate control and optional navigation. The GX has a feature list similar to the LX's.

The limited-production Civic Mugen Si sedan has a track-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels with more aggressive tires, performance exhaust and a specialized exterior body kit.

Civic DX, LX and EX models are powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 140 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. That power is sent through the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic. The GX also has a 1.8-liter engine, but it's fueled by clean-burning compressed natural gas and makes 113 hp. It only has a cruising range of 200 miles, but with Honda's Phill device, you can refuel from the comfort of your own garage. For the Civic Si, Honda installs a 197-hp 2.0-liter engine and an exclusive six-speed manual transmission with a performance-enhancing limited-slip front differential.

The gasoline-fueled 1.8-liter engine delivers above-average fuel economy for the small car class; 2008 EPA estimates are 24 mpg city and 36 mpg highway for an automatic-equipped Civic. The GX posts 24/36 numbers. The Hybrid, meanwhile, uses a gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain to maximize fuel economy. Its 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine is paired to the latest version of Honda's IMA technology and a continuously variable transmission to deliver 110 hp and 40/45 mpg ratings.

All Civics come with front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. Antilock brakes are also standard; EX and Si models have four-wheel discs, while the rest have rear drums. Stability control is an exclusive standard feature on the Si trim only. In government crash testing, the 2008 Honda Civic earned a perfect five stars for its protection of occupants in frontal impacts. Side-impact tests resulted in a four-star rating for front passengers and five stars for rear passengers. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the Civic its top rating of "Good" for the car's performance in frontal-offset and side-impact tests.

The 2008 Honda Civic's suspension, steering and brakes all work together seamlessly, and even the mainstream models can be described as being somewhat sporty to drive. The Civic Hybrid and natural-gas GX are unfortunately a bit slow, but neither model is meant for supreme acceleration anyway. That task is taken up by the Civic Si. Possessing nimble handling and a delightfully fizzy engine, the Si is one of the few cars available in any price range that makes you want to drive it just for the sake of driving.

The Civic's dash features an unusual layout. An analog tachometer is in the traditional location but the digital speedometer and gas gauge are at the base of the windshield. Though some drivers find the two-tier display distracting, others say it makes quick visual checks of speed easier. Otherwise, the Honda Civic continues to be one of the best small cars in terms of room, interior storage and refinement. Its controls are easy to operate and materials are of high quality. Regular Civic sedans have 12 cubic feet of trunk space; this drops to about 10 for the Hybrid and 6 for the GX due to the space taken up by the hardware of their respective powertrains.

We drove the Civic in both coupe and sedan form and found them both notable for what you don't hear or feel---the ride is smooth and quiet, while cornering and acceleration are easy and nearly effortless. The whole experience is more in line with what you'd expect from a bigger or pricier vehicle. The refined 140-horsepower engine never overwhelms you with power, but even when you run the tachometer up to its redline you don't feel like you're bullying the car. The coupe version gets a slightly sportier suspension to go with its decidedly sportier posture, but we found it to be still comfortable after hour-plus drives. Whether you're in the driver's seat or one of the Civic's other seating positions, the 2008 Honda Civic is a perfectly enjoyable way to travel.

Audio OptionsListen to MP3s on CD. Listen to MP3s on a memory card. Listen to MP3s on an iPod. Listen to XM Satellite Radio. Listen through a 350-watt system with a subwoofer (coupe only). When you're feeling nostalgic, you can even listen to AM and FM radio broadcasts.Two-Tier Instrument PanelWhile some non-traditional instrument panel layouts come across as gimmicky, the Civic's two-tier execution seems to make all the sense in the world.

In addition to offering more in-cabin technology than we've come to expect, the 2008 Honda Civic also features the most visually futuristic interior of any vehicle on the market. Take a seat behind the wheel and your first impression is dominated by a uniquely sculpted steering wheel and an unconventional two-tier instrument panel. Technological highlights include an available navigation system and a broad array of digital audio options. Third, fourth and fifth passengers would be happier in the sedan's backseat than in the coupe's, because the sedan features about four more inches of legroom and two more inches of headroom than the cozy coupe. The fit, finish and design found inside the Civic are first-rate.

Although the 2008 Honda Civic Coupe and Sedan are both distinguished by a low-profile front end, short hood and long, laid-back windshield, the two models have never been more different. The taller sedan rides on a longer wheelbase than the sleeker, sportier coupe that also includes a decklid spoiler as standard equipment. Smaller gaps between the tires and body contribute to each model having a stance with better proportions and more balance. Beneath the sheet metal, the Civic features an advanced body structure designed to better absorb and distribute collision forces, especially in impacts involving taller sport utility vehicles and the like.

Notable standard equipment on the base Civic Sedan and Coupe models includes power windows, a four-way adjustable steering column, height-adjustable driver's seat, fold-down rear seatback and an impressive list of safety equipment such as front, front-side and side-curtain airbags, active head restraints, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and more. Notable as not included on the base DX trim level are an audio system, air conditioning and power locks/mirrors.

The Civic's list of optional equipment is highlighted by a navigation system with voice-recognition software. An advanced 350-watt AM/FM/XM/CD sound system with subwoofer is available on the Si Sedan and EX, EX-L and Si Coupe, but there are several iterations of a 160-watt CD sound system---and all audio systems have MP3/WMA CD playback capability. In addition to an auxiliary input jack for MP3 players, Honda offers an accessory adapter that lets you control an Apple iPod through the car's audio controls. Getting the navigation system also gives you the ability to play music stored on a variety of digital media cards. More familiar options are included within the various trim levels and include an automatic transmission, one-touch power moonroof, power door locks with keyless remote, power mirrors, air conditioning, cruise control and steering wheel-mounted cruise/audio/navigation controls.

Bridging the gap between the 197-horsepower high-output engine in the Civic Si and the 45-miles per gallon powerplant in the Civic Hybrid, the Civic sedan and coupe feature a 140-horsepower unit that delivers impressive city/highway mileage of up to 25/36-miles per gallon. A five-speed manual is standard, but a five-speed automatic mitigates the performance penalty normally associated with combining a small four-cylinder engine and an automatic transmission. Performance fans who can't work a manual gearbox are shut out of the Si, as no automatic is offered.1.8-liter in-line 4140 horsepower @ 6300 rpm128 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4300 rpmEPA city/highway fuel economy: 26/34 (manual), 25/36 (automatic)2.0-liter in-line 4197 horsepower @ 7800 rpm139 lb.-ft. of torque @ 6100 rpmEPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/29

The Honda Civic DX Coupe's Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts around $ 15,000, while the DX Sedan is a few hundred more. Moving up the line finds the Civic EX Sedan with an automatic transmission, leather and navigation at just under $ 23,000; the Civic Si Coupe is about $ 22,000. You can get a well-equipped Hyundai Elantra or Ford Focus for far less, but they won't have the Civic's polished fit, strong performance or outstanding resale value. We expect our prices to reflect real-world transaction prices very close to MSRP. You can find competitors that offer more features for less money, but, when you factor in the Civic's outstanding resale values, it's one of the smartest buys out there.

2008 Honda Civic DX




| Engine | Standard in Trim | Power | Torque | Fuel Consumption - City | Fuel Consumption - Highway | 0-100 km/h | Quarter Mile | Half Mile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L L4 DOHC 16-valve | Si | 197 hp @ 7800 rpm | 120 N.m | 10.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km | 7.5 s | 15.2 s | 25.3 s |
| 2.0L L4 DOHC 16-valve | Si | 197 hp @ 8000 rpm | 120 N.m | 10.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km | 7.5 s | 15.2 s | 25.3 s |
| 2.0L L4 DOHC 16-valve | Si | 197 hp @ 8000 rpm | 120 N.m | 10.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km | 6.9 s | 14.7 s | 24.4 s |
| 2.0L L4 DOHC 16-valve | Si | 197 hp @ 7800 rpm | 120 N.m | 10.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km | 7.5 s | 15.2 s | 25.3 s |
| 2.0L L4 DOHC 16-valve | Si | 197 hp @ 7800 rpm | 120 N.m | 10.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km | 6.9 s | 14.7 s | 24.4 s |
| 2.0L L4 DOHC 16 valves | Si | 197 hp @ 7800 rpm | 120 N.m | 10.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km | 7.5 s | 15.2 s | 25.2 s |
| 1.8L L4 DOHC 16-valve | DX-G | 140 hp @ 6300 rpm | 120 N.m | 8.2 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km | 9.0 s | 16.6 s | 27.5 s |
| 1.8L L4 DOHC 16-valve | SE | 140 hp @ 6300 rpm | 120 N.m | 8.2 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km | 9.1 s | 16.6 s | 27.5 s |
| 1.8L L4 DOHC 16-valve | EX-L | 140 hp @ 6300 rpm | 120 N.m | 8.2 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km | 9.4 s | 16.8 s | 27.9 s |
| 1.8L L4 DOHC 16-valve | DX | 140 hp @ 6300 rpm | 120 N.m | 9.7 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km | 8.9 s | 16.5 s | 27.3 s |
| AM/FM stereo radio | 160-watt AM/FM stereo radio with auxiliary input jack |
|---|---|
| Air Conditionning | Automatic climate control |
| Antenna | Roof-mounted antenna |
| Cruise Control | Yes |
| Front Wipers | Variable intermittent windshield wipers |
| Fuel Door Operation | Remote fuel-filler door release |
| Interior Air Filter | Micron micro filtration air system |
| Number of Speakers | 6 speakers |
| Power Door Locks | Yes |
| Power Outlet | 2 12-volt power outlets |
| Power Windows | Power windows with driver-side auto up/down feature |
| Reading Light | Map lights |
| Remote Audio Controls | Audio controls on steering wheel |
| Remote Keyless Entry | Yes |
| Single CD | CD/MP3/WMA player |
| Steering Wheel Adjustment | Tilt/telescopic steering wheel |
| Trunk/Hatch Operation | Remote trunk release |
| Cargo Capacity | 294 L |
|---|---|
| Curb Weight | 1341 kg |
| Front Headroom | 1001 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1072 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L |
| Height | 1430 mm |
| Length | 4489 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 951 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 878 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm |
| Width | 1752 mm |
| Door Handles | Body-color door handles |
|---|---|
| Exterior Mirror Colour | Body-color outside mirrors |
| Heated Exterior Mirrors | Heated outside mirrors |
| Mudguard | Front mudguards |
| Power Exterior Mirrors | Power-adjustable outside mirrors with integrated turn signals |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes |
| Rear Window Defroster | Yes |
| Floor Console | Floor console with storage |
|---|---|
| Floor Mats | Front and rear floor mats |
| Front Seats Active Headrests | Active front seat headrests |
| Front Seats Driver Height | Manual driver's seat height adjustment |
| Front Seats Front Seat Type | Bucket front seats |
| Instrumentation Type | Ditigal speedomter and odometer |
| Maintenance Interval Reminder | Maintenance reminder system |
| Number of Cup Holders | 4 cupholders |
| Outside Temperature Gauge | Outside temperature display |
| Rear Seat Type | Rear bench seat |
| Seat Trim | Cloth seats |
| Drive Train | Front-wheel drive |
|---|---|
| Engine Name | 1.3L L4 SOHC 16-valve + electric motor |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Body | Sedan |
|---|---|
| Doors | 4 |
| Engine | 1.3L L4 SOHC 16-valve + electric motor |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.7 (Automatic City)4.3 (Automatic Highway) |
| Power | 110 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Seats | 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Warranties | Bumper-to-Bumper60000/km, 36/Months Powertrain100000/km, 60/Months Roadside AssistanceUnlimited/km, 36/Months Rust-throughUnlimited/km, 60/Months |
| Anti-Lock Brakes | Antilock brakes |
|---|---|
| Anti-Theft Alarm | Alarm system |
| Brake Assist | Brake assist |
| Brake Type | Front disc/rear drum |
| Child Seat Anchor | LATCH child seat anchors |
| Child-proof Locks | Child rear door locks |
| Driver Airbag | Driver-side front airbag |
| Electronic brake force distribution | Electronic brake force distribution |
| Ignition Disable | Theft-deterrent engine immobilizer |
| Passenger Airbag | Passenger-side front airbag |
| Roof Side Curtain | Side-curtain airbags |
| Side Airbag | Front side airbags |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Front stabilizer bar |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Independent front suspension |
| Front Tires | P195/65R15 |
| Power Steering | Electric variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Rear stabilizer bar |
| Rear Suspension | Independent rear suspension |
| Wheel Type | 15'' alloy wheels |
Note: This review was created when the 2008 Honda Civic was new. In our rankings, the 2008 Civic is engaged in a sibling rivalry with the 2008 Honda Fit. The Civic holds an edge in safety and visual appeal, while the Fit's versatile cabin makes it a better choice for some buyers. Little has changed ...
The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid excels in fuel economy and front-seat comfort. Find out why the 2008 Honda Civic is rated 8.6 by The Car Connection experts.
Motor Trend reviews the 2008 Honda Civic where consumers can find detailed information on specs, fuel economy, transmission and safety. Find local 2008 Honda Civic prices online.
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