Not content to rest on its recent laurels, the 2008 Honda Civic adds three more trims to its lineup this year, bringing more luxury, more performance, and more savings to the popular compact car. Available in a sedan or coupe, the front-wheel drive 2008 Civic not only features a 110-horsepower, 1.4-liter inline-four gas/electric Hybrid model, but this year introduces the GX. Its 1.8-liter inline four delivers 113 hp and runs only on natural gas, making it the first and only car to earn EPA certification for zero emissions. The GX gets slightly less fuel economy in the city (24/36 to the 26/34 in the other trims), but makes you feel better about not polluting the planet. It also qualifies for tax breaks and perks, but is available only to New York and California residents.

Also new is the EX-L, a more luxurious form of the upscale EX. Both EX trims get leather trim this year, heated seats, and an optional navigation system (standard on the EX-L). The DX, LX, and EX trims feature a 1.8-liter, 140-hp, four-cylinder i-VTEC engine and choice of 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Standard ABS brakes, 15-inch wheels, and dual front and side impact airbags earn five stars in crash tests. Base models start with power windows and locks, a CD/MP3 player, cruise control, and remote entry, and more creature comforts, such as leather upholstery and power front seats, get added as you move up the line.

Reintroduced last year, the Civic Si is the performance version, with a rear spoiler, sports suspension, performance tires, and sports badging. The redesigned Civic's aerodynamic exterior complements the performance of the 2.0-liter, 197-hp inline four. It gets a faster brother this year, with the expected arrival of the MUGEN Si. Developed in conjunction with MUGEN Motorworks, it upgrades the Si with a track suspension, enhanced front and rear damping, lighter aluminum tires, and a lower ride height.

It seems like the 2008 Civic is trying to please all driving tastes, whether it's a sedan or coupe, economy car or quick racer wannabe. Rumor has it a wagon version may be in the works. Drivers love the fuel economy, smooth handling, and styling, but complain of road noise, a rough ride, and cheaply-made interior materials.