2008 Honda Civic GX

Powered completely by compressed natural gas, the 2008 Honda Civic GX is Honda's first zero-emission vehicle. Its 1.8-liter, 16-valve inline-four engine delivers only 113 hp and 109 ft-lbs of torque, but it gets 24/36 mpg city/highway. A 5-speed automatic is the only transmission. The tank holds only eight gallons, but with the natural gas engine come tax benefits and incentives such as free metered parking in Los Angeles. A Phill refueling unit can be mounted in your home. The GX version of the front-wheel drive Civic sedan is available in New York and California.

Other than its engine and availability, the 2008 Civic GX is much like the LX. Safety equipment includes front disc and rear drum brakes, 4-wheel ABS, dual front-side and side curtain airbags, a tire monitor, and daytime running lights. 15-inch wheels with all-season tires are standard. Foglights and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are optional.

Interior features are plentiful, with power windows, locks, and mirrors, wheel-mounted cruise control, keyless entry, and a CD/MP3 player with radio data. The sound system features only two speakers. Other equipment includes intermittent wipers, tilt and telescopic steering, a tachometer and temperature display, front power outlets, and front cupholders. The rear bench seat split-folds, and the trunk holds 6 cubic feet of cargo. A net and organizer can be added. Satellite radio, leather trim for the steering wheel, and cupholders for the rear passengers are available.