TO THE POINTWhat’s New? Taking a quantum leap forward in terms of design, comfort, safety, refinement, and technology, the 2006 Honda Civic Coupe is more fun to drive while getting better gas mileage. Selling Points: Sleek styling, sophisticated engineering, comfortable front seats, lots of standard safety equipment, reputation for reliability, excellent fuel economy Deal Breakers: Cramped back seat, funky dash design Our Advice: For stylish, affordable, safe, economical, and reliable transportation, it’s hard to argue against the redesigned 2006 Honda Civic.
Every 2006 Honda Civic Coupe gets the same engine, a 1.8-liter, inline four-cylinder equipped with i-VTEC variable valve timing. With 140 horsepower available at 6,300 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque peaking at 4,300 rpm, the 2006 Civic Coupe’s engine is more powerful than both motors offered in 2005 and runs on regular unleaded fuel. A five-speed manual transmission sends the power to the front wheels, and is estimated to provide 30 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The optional five-speed automatic is expected to do even better when it comes to fuel efficiency, matching the manual’s city rating but getting 40 mpg on the highway.