2008 Honda Civic EX-L

Brand new this year, the 2008 Honda Civic EX-L starts with the high-end EX trim and adds standard leather upholstery and heated front seats to the package, for a bit more luxury (hence, the L). Otherwise, it is much the same as the EX, with a 140-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve inline-four engine and 5-speed manual transmission, front and rear independent and double wishbone rear suspension, and 16-inch wheels with all-season tires. The front-wheel drive sedan earns five stars with 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes and electronic brakeforce distribution, dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows, front head restraints, and passenger airbag deactivation. Other safety features include a tire monitor and daytime running lights.

The 2008 Civic EX-L keeps passengers happy with its full power setup; wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls; a 6-speaker sound system with CD player, radio data, and MP3 jack; and sunroof. Convenience features include variable intermittent wipers, remote entry, heated mirrors, a tachometer, temperature display, front and rear cupholders, a sliding center armrest, and split-folding rear seats that open onto a 12-cubic-foot trunk. Leather trim for the steering wheel is also standard, and a cargo net is available for the trunk. Other add-ons include foglights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rear spoiler, remote start, a voice-activated navigation system, satellite radio, and an 8-CD changer.