2009 Honda Civic EX

The EX really starts showing off for the Civic line, with antilock four-wheel disc brakes with brake assist behind 16-inch alloys. Powered by a 140-hp, 1.8-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine, the Civic qualifies as an Ultra-Low-Emissions-Vehicle (ULEV-2), and comes with your choice of a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear suspension handle bumps in the road, and the vehicle is controlled via a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system.

Further luxury shows inside, with satellite radio getting added to the CD/MP3 stereo with a digital media connection and steering-wheel-mounted controls. A power sunroof will keep you cool if the air conditioning doesn’t, and cruise control keeps you riding in comfort, along with a tilt/telescoping steering column and front bucket seats. Both front seats recline, and the driver’s is height adjustable. While the front seats and the rear split-folding seat come with three-point seat belts, only the fronts come with an automatic tensioning system and active head restraints. Power windows, mirrors, and doors are all standard, as well as remote keyless entry, an integrated rear window antenna, a tire pressure monitoring system, floormats, a 12-volt outlet, an outside temperature indicator, variable intermittent front wipers, a rear defogger, cloth upholstery, a center console, and a tachometer.

Additional safety features include dual stage/threshold front airbags, front side and side curtain airbags, side impact door beams, and daytime running lights.

By Michael Perkins