2009 Honda Civic EX-L

The EX-L is the best-equipped of the 1.8-liter Civics, with traction control and anti-skid included as two of its most prestigious upgrades. Its 16-inch alloys are stopped by four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake assist, and the twists and turns are handled by a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. With a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, the Civic qualifies as an Ultra-Low-Emissions-Vehicle (ULEV-2).

Leather upholstery graces the heated front seats, which also recline, and the driver’s seat further comes with height adjustability. The front and the rear split-folding seats come with three-point seat belts, however the fronts alone come with an automatic tensioning system and active head restraints. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has radio controls for the CD/MP3 stereo, which comes with a digital media connection and satellite radio and is connected to a tilt/telescoping steering column controlling the power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Look for a power sunroof for summer days and air conditioning if you need a bit more. Cruise control is just another creature comfort, along with power windows and doors and heated power mirrors, 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