2008 Honda Civic Coupe EX-L

The L in the 2008 Honda Civic Coupe EX-L could stand for luxury or for leather, as leather upholstery and interior are standard on this front-wheel-drive coupe. Also added are heated front seats and heated mirrors. These are in addition to the full power features (not seats, unfortunately), wheel-mounted audio and cruise control, a CD/MP3 player with input jack and radio data, a power sunroof, a security system, remote entry, intermittent wipers, and a tachometer and temperature display. Front power outlets and front and rear cupholders offer more convenience. Also in the 2008 Civic Coupe EX-L is a sliding center armrest in the front seat.

A 1.8-liter, 140-hp, 16-valve iVTEC four-cylinder engine is matched to a 5-speed manual transmission. Riding on 16-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires (17-inch available) and a four-wheel independent and rear double wishbone suspension, the sporty coupe comes standard with a rear spoiler, and a rear air dam can be added. 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows, a tire monitor, and daytime running lights are standard safety equipment and earn five stars in all but one test (where it gets four stars). The 2008 Civic Coupe EX-L gets the option of satellite radio in addition to an 8-CD changer. Other options include a navigation system, foglights, remote start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and a cargo organizer for the trunk, which holds just under 12 cubic feet.