While going against the grain does offer some advantages, there's something to be said for following a well-established trend. A bold new fashion choice or adventurous meal might go a long way towards spicing up your life, but when it comes to something as essential as your daily driver, it's always best to stick with a tried and true model. With over 12 million units sold in the US over the last 50 years, the Honda Civic has made a name for itself in the automotive market.
The classic compact sedan is both Honda's longest-running model, which should give drivers plenty of confidence if they're in the market for a new vehicle. Available as both a sedan and hatchback with both traditional and hybrid powertrains, it's easy to craft a 2026 Honda Civic with a quick visit to Route 22 Honda. Let's explore some of the new model's highlights and see how the Civic has managed to maintain its impressive legacy of success.
The Hype Behind the Hybrid
Honda has long utilized hybrid technology, introducing the first Civic Hybrid as far back as 2003. That 20-plus years of experience has allowed Honda to avoid many of the pitfalls brands tend to experience when embracing new technology, and makes the Civic a great choice for any driver looking to enjoy improved efficiency without sacrificing performance or reliability. The 2026 model features a 2.0-liter engine paired with two electric motors that allow the Civic to produce up to 200 hp.
Those who prefer the traditional approach can always opt for the non-hybrid model. The purely gas-powered Civic features the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, but the lack of hybrid tech sees it top out at 150 hp. No matter which version you choose, you'll get to enjoy all the efficiency-enhancing benefits of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth acceleration and consistent power delivery. That said, the hybrid offers a decidedly more thrilling experience when you're behind the wheel with a zero to 60 mph time that leaves the normal model in the dust. While the traditional Civic takes 8.9 seconds to hit cruising speed, the hybrid can get up to 60 mph in as little as 6.2 seconds.
A Focus On Efficiency
The Civic's compact design and thrifty 2.0-liter engine combine to make the compact one of the most efficient vehicles in the segment. The non-hybrid gets off to a strong start with an EPA-estimated 32 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway, but the electric-assisted model has an obvious advantage when it comes to saving some cash.[a] The hybrid Civic wows with phenomenal fuel economy, delivering an EPA-estimated 50 MPG in the city and 47 MPG on the highway for a rating of 49 MPG combined.[a]
If you're looking to make your bi-weekly visits to the pump a thing of the past, the hybrid Civic is the obvious option, but just how much money will it keep in your pocket? According to the EPA, opting for the hybrid version of the compact will amount to an annual investment of just $1,000 for the average driver. The non-hybrid Civic isn't too far behind at $1,350, but that extra $350 could go a long way towards financing a new set of snow tires or other upgrades that'll help turn the Honda into a bespoke driving machine.
A Technical Knock-Out
The Civic's low starting price of $24,595 is one of the compact's most enticing features, but the modest MSRP doesn't mean you'll be missing out on the latest in contemporary infotainment and convenience technology.[b] An optional nine-inch touchscreen display serves as the car's command center, allowing drivers to access the Civic's various infotainment and connectivity apps, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Civic hybrid is just as tech-forward in the cabin as it is under the hood, adding a 10.2-inch digital gauge display that enables owners to create a customized driving experience specifically tailored to their needs.
The Civic's Sport trim improves on the base LX model with ambient interior lighting, Smart Entry, Push Button Start, and an eight-speaker audio system that'll leave you fully ensconced in sound whenever you hit the road. Those seeking an even more high-fidelity listening experience should consider investing in the Sport Touring Hybrid trim, which swaps out the eight-speaker setup for a generous 12-speaker array courtesy of the audio experts at Bose.
The Sport Touring Hybrid also helps drivers cut the cord with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a wireless smartphone charger, but the model's most intriguing tech feature would probably be the suite of Google built-in apps. From Google Maps and Spotify to a hands-free voice assistant and more, Google built-in leverages the experience of one of the world's foremost tech companies to modernize your ride.
Playing It Safe
Safety comes standard on the 2025 Civic, with the compact boasting a comprehensive set of tools. While many brands treat premium safety features as optional add-ons, Honda's refusal to nickel and dime its customers marks a refreshing change of pace.
The standard Honda Sensing safety package includes all the features drivers have come to expect, including Forward Collision Warning, a Collision Mitigation Brake System, Lane Departure Warning, and a Lane-Keeping Assist System that subtly guides the Civic back between the lines if it starts to stray.
These systems aside, it's the Civic's standard Adaptive Cruise Control feature that marks the most compelling part of the package. It allows drivers to set their desired speed and let the Civic work out the fine details, automatically applying the brakes and gas as needed to maintain a set distance from another vehicle.
The Sport trim improves on the standard package with the addition of a Blind Spot Information System with a Rear Cross Traffic Monitor system. Every driver is familiar with that sinking feeling that comes with going to merge into another lane only to find it already occupied, but these tools make those moments of panic a thing of the past by quickly alerting you of any surrounding traffic when you make your move.
The Sport Touring Hybrid throws front and rear parking sensors into the mix, which makes the already amenable compact even easier to park with handy audio alerts. While it's too early to reference the results of the latest safety tests for the 2026 model, the 2025 Civic passed with flying colors, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and being named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).[c][d]
Find Your Civic at Route 22 Honda
If you're in the market for a versatile compact that's loaded with value, it's worth checking out the 2026 Honda Civic. This long-running model has been a fixture of driveways across the nation since it first hit the market decades ago, and continues to impress with Honda steadily integrating the latest automotive tech.
The hybrid model's low operating costs and rapid acceleration mean that drivers don't have to choose between performance and efficiency, while the interior includes plenty of amenities that are sure to elevate your daily commute. Throw in a well-rounded safety suite, and it's easy to see why the Civic is a fantastic option for a variety of drivers and lifestyles.
When you're ready to see what all the hype is about, Route 22 Honda is here to help. We stock a wide selection of 2026 Civics, including the hybrid and even specialized performance models like the Civic Si and Type R. Stop by today and learn how a quick lesson in Civics can have you looking forward to every ride.
[a] 32 city/41 highway/36 combined mpg rating for LX. 31 city/39 highway/34 combined mpg rating for Sport. 50 city/47 highway/49 combined mpg rating for Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid. Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery-pack age/condition (hybrid trims) and other factors.
[b] MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $1,150 destination charge, and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $455 charge for premium colors.
[c] The 2025 Honda Civic received a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and nhtsa.gov. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is part of the US Department of Transportation.
[d]The 2025 Honda Civic was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. For more information, visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and iihs.org. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is part of the Highway Data Loss Institute.