A red 2019 Honda Civic is shown driving on a highway after leaving a used Honda dealer.

The Honda Civic had its first debut over fifty years ago, first being released in the US in 1972, and has been a go-to sedan choice for many drivers ever since. As a used Honda dealer, we have seen a fair share of these models grace our lot over the years, and many of our customers choose this model again and again when the time comes to replace their old ride. Despite being a simple sedan, or sometimes a coupe or hatchback, the Honda Civic has still managed to set itself apart. The question is, though, why should you consider a used Honda Civic for yourself? Well, we don’t just have one reason you should check out the Civic; we have five!

#1: Fuel Efficient

One of the most notable things about the Honda Civic is how fuel efficient it is. Honda worked hard from the beginning to create a fuel-efficient vehicle without sacrificing in other areas. One breakthrough that helped achieve this was the development of the Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion. It sounds like a complicated solution, but in fact, it wasn’t. A change in design led to a cleaner fuel delivery system, which boosts fuel economy ratings.

Obviously, this isn’t 1972 anymore, but the same dedication to improving fuel efficiency has carried over, generation after generation. Depending on model year and trim, you’ll find varying engine models. Typically, an inline-four is placed under the hood, with some options being turbocharged for better performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

For example, if you are looking at a 2020 Honda Civic sedan, you will potentially find either a 2.0L I-4 or a 1.5L turbo I-4 under the hood. The 2.0L engine gets a pretty great EPA-estimated fuel economy of 30 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway.[a] However, if you want to get the best ratings this model year offers, you'll want to look for a model with the 1.5L engine. With this option, you can get an EPA-estimated 32 MPG in the city and 42 MPG on the highway.[a] These ratings will vary based on model year, trim, location, and your driving habits, but overall, these are numbers any commuter can be happy with.

An orange 2022 Honda Civic Si is shown driving on a city highway after a rainstorm.

#2: Affordable and Easy to Maintain

The Honda Civic is the everyman's car, offering reliable and safe transportation at a reasonable price point (especially when looking at models on the used lot). Honda is well-known for building quality vehicles that hold up, so even when you buy used, you are still getting a quality Civic. You don’t just save money upfront when you buy used; you save in other ways. Purchasing used usually results in lower insurance costs. Since older vehicles are generally cheaper to repair, insurance companies don’t charge the same. Additionally, used cars don’t depreciate like new cars, so you get more for your investment. Lastly, because of how reliable Honda vehicles are, you can expect lower repair costs. Of course, keeping up on annual maintenance and sticking with authentic Honda parts will make a big difference in repair costs and frequency.

#3: Safe, Safe, Safe

The Honda Civic comes well-stocked with safety features and driver-assistance tech. Again, the features that are going to be available to you will vary from model year to model year, so make sure you ask us for the specifics of the used Honda Civic you want to purchase, but overall, you can feel pretty comfortable when you are behind the wheel. Why do we say that?

2015 saw the introduction of Honda Sensing, a suite of safety and driver-assist features designed to make driving easier and safer. Honda has built a reputation for safety, and continuing to improve the construction and technology of its vehicles has only added to that image. With features that work with the driver to lessen injury and enhance driver awareness, Honda is showing that they are serious about putting your safety and security above all else. The Honda Sensing suite includes many impressive safety features, such as Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Collision Mitigation Braking. Honda continues to expand its suite of safety features, making the Civic a fantastic choice for safe (and fun) driving.

#4: Endless Options

The Honda Civic is a car with options. The first generation of Honda Civic was offered as a hatchback and as a sedan. A few generations later, a wagon option was added to the line-up. The wagon option didn’t last past the fifth generation, unfortunately, being dropped in favor of the addition of a coupe body style. The option of coupe, sedan, and hatchback would reign supreme, with some sporty hatch options here and there.

There have been several different engine options throughout the years. For example, the tenth-generation models, which ran from 2015 to 2021, feature the 2.0L I-4 and 1.5L turbo options mentioned earlier. These are the options you are most likely to find in our used inventory, so if there is an engine option you prefer, let us know, and we will help you find a model with it. Also, depending on which body style of the Civic you get, you will have the choice of either a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission. Both of these options offer seamless transitions and smooth driving. It isn’t just the body style, engine, and transmission that makes the Honda so customizable.

With so many years under its belt, the Honda Civic has racked up quite a few trim options. Plus, with each passing year, new and unique trims have been added, removed, replaced, and redone. Whether you want a tech-heavy vehicle, a family-friendly sedan, a roomy hatchback, or a sports car to end all sports cars, there is a model or trim for you.

A white 2022 Honda Civic is shown from a rear angle while driving on an open road.

#5: Fun to Drive

Yep, the unassuming Honda Civic is a blast to drive. Its responsive steering, zippy engine and compact styling make it a surprisingly fun experience. The engines are one reason enthusiasts have and will continue to enjoy driving the Honda Civic. Get a Civic Si with the 1.5L turbo I-4 or a Civic Type R with the 2.0L turbo I-4, and you'll feel excitement as you drive around town.

Choosing between the manual or the automatic transmission is another reason Civic lovers find it so much fun. For some, the purity of taking control of a manual transmission is unlike anything else. The control is completely in your hands and allows you to feel truly connected to the vehicle. On the other hand, a continuously variable transmission can offer a buttery smooth drive that will enable you to focus on the road and everything that lies ahead. Well-engineered suspension components work in unison with the compact frame of the vehicle to create a lighter-than-air handling experience.

It's Time to Consider Getting a Used Honda Civic

Honda knows how to build a car; it’s that simple. The Honda Civic from any model year and in any body style will be sleek, fun, filled with safety and driver-assist features, and exciting to drive. The Honda Civic is a prime example of all of Honda’s innovation, experience, and spirit of innovation that doesn't remove the practicality of owning its models.

There are many reasons to buy a used Honda Civic, but these are the top five that make the Civic worth checking out. Whether you are a car enthusiast who wants a Civic Si or Type R, or just looking for a reliable and inexpensive sedan or hatchback that’s fun to drive, the Honda Civic has an option for you.


[a]Based on EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Mileage will depend on model year, trim, and condition of the vehicle. Your mileage will also vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.
Categories: Used Honda Dealer