2006 Honda Civic Hybrid Test Drive

Civic Duty

Honda's compact gas/electric hybrid has grown up. Its gas mileage averages in the low- to mid-forties and we found the car just as pleasant to drive as regular Civics.

The Honda Civic Hybrid doesn't make an overt social statement with its fuel-saving gas/electric hybrid technology, unlike its only direct competitor, the offbeat-looking Toyota Prius, which has no conventional equivalent. The Civic Hybrid looks virtually identical to mainstream Civics and offers just as much convenience, comfort and driving stability, but with a battery-powered electric motor that boosts fuel economy and reduces exhaust emissions.

The Civic family was completely redesigned for 2006. Honda pushed the dimensions of the new model outward in every direction, resulting in noticeably more interior and cargo room. While the added space is welcome, the increase in bulk changes the overall character of the Civic sedan from a light-and-nimble compact to that of a larger car with a more solid on-road presence (but it's still officially classified as a compact car). The reason for moving the Civic up in size became clear when Honda introduced the new Fit subcompact in January at the Detroit auto show. The Fit is roughly the same size as Civics were about 15 years ago.

Driving the Civic Hybrid during the dead of winter in Ohio and separately in Pennsylvania during the spring, we were able to consistently average fuel economy in the low- to mid-forties. We have no doubt that 50 mpg is quite obtainable in warmer weather with a light touch on the accelerator.

If there’s a dirty little secret to achieving the advertised fuel-economy figures, it’s that proper driver input is required. Smooth starts and stops with gradual throttle application are necessary for the best economy. Hot rod a hybrid around, and fuel economy will suffer.

Despite the extra weight from its electric motor and batteries, the Civic Hybrid is just as pleasant and comfortable to drive as standard models.