2009 Honda Civic DX

The 2009 Honda Civic DX qualifies as an Ultra-Low-Emission-Vehicle (ULEV-2) with its 140-hp, 1.8-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. This base trim stops courtesy of power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes with ABS, and rides on a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Steering is power-assisted rack-and-pinion and channeled through a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Power windows and cloth bucket seats in the front with driver height adjustability are complemented by three-point seatbelts throughout and an automatic tensioning system for the driver and front passenger, who also enjoy active head restraints. Side impact door beams, dual-stage/threshold front airbags, and front side and side curtain airbags all prevent injury in the event of a crash. Daytime running lights and a tire pressure monitoring system round out the safety features.

The DX rolls on 15-inch wheels and has full wheel covers, an integrated rear window antenna, two-speed intermittent windshield wipers, a tachometer, 12-volt outlet, a rear spoiler, and a rear window defogger.

By Michael Perkins