When you think of a car that just gets it right, the 2016 Honda Civic often comes to mind. This model marked a huge step forward, offering a compelling blend of performance and reliability that won over critics and drivers alike. It wasn’t just an update; it was a complete reinvention that set a new standard in the compact car segment.
Let’s look at what made this particular Civic such a standout and why it remains a smart choice today.
2016 Honda Civic – a Blend of Performance and Reliability
The tenth generation of the Civic had a lot to prove. Honda delivered by creating a car that felt more premium, drove more dynamically, and packed in more technology than ever before. It successfully balanced fun behind the wheel with the legendary dependability the Civic name is known for.
A Fresh and Bold Design
Gone was the conservative styling of the past. The 2016 Civic introduced a sleek, fastback profile that looked more European than economy.
* Exterior Styling: It featured sharp character lines, bold C-shaped taillights, and a lower, wider stance. This gave it an athletic and upscale appearance that stood out in parking lots.
* Interior Upgrade: Inside, the materials took a big leap in quality. Soft-touch surfaces replaced hard plastics in key areas. The layout was driver-focused, with a modern, uncluttered design.
* Spacious Cabin: Despite its sportier exterior, Honda’s clever engineering made the interior remarkably spacious. Both front and rear passengers enjoyed excellent legroom and headroom, a traditional Civic strength that continued.
Engine Options and Driving Dynamics
This is where the “performance” part of the blend truly shined. Honda offered two excellent engines, catering to different driver preferences.
1.6L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder (Available in EX-T, EX-L, and Touring trims):
This was the star of the show. The turbo engine provided:
* Peppy Acceleration: It delivered 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, offering strong pull from low rpm.
* Great Fuel Economy: You got the power without sacrificing efficiency. EPA ratings were excellent for the class.
* Smooth Power Delivery: The turbo spooled up smoothly, making everyday driving effortless and highway merging confident.
2.0L Naturally-Aspirated 4-Cylinder (Available in LX and EX trims):
The base engine was no slouch either. It was refined and proven.
* 158 Horsepower: It provided adequate power for daily commuting.
* Proven Reliability: This engine had a long history of durability and was very easy to maintain.
* Cost-Effective: Trims with this engine were more affordable to buy and often had lower insurance costs.
The chassis and handling received just as much attention. The 2016 Civic featured a new platform that was stiffer and lighter.
* Responsive Steering: The electric power steering was tuned for better feedback.
* Composed Ride: It handled bumps with maturity while staying flat around corners.
* Overall Feel: The driving experience was engaging, making even mundane trips more enjoyable. It felt planted and secure.
Honda’s Legendary Reliability
Performance means little if it isn’t backed by trust. The 2016 Civic built upon Honda’s reputation for building cars that last.
* Strong Predicted Reliability: Major automotive rating organizations consistently gave the 2016 Civic high marks for predicted reliability.
* Durable Powertrains: Both the 2.0L and 1.5L turbo engines are known for their longevity with proper maintenance.
* Lower Cost of Ownership: Thanks to its reliability, the Civic typically has lower long-term repair costs compared to many rivals.
Of course, no car is perfect. There have been a few common points to check on used models:
* A/C Condenser Issues: Some early 2016 models experienced leaks in the air conditioning condenser, leading to loss of cooling.
* Infotainment Glitches: The touchscreen system in higher trims could sometimes freeze or reboot.
* Paint Thinness: A few owners reported that the paint, especially on the front bumper and hood, was somewhat thin and prone to chips.
These are generally minor in the context of the car’s overall strengths and are often addressed by recalls or technical service bulletins.
Trim Level Breakdown
Choosing the right trim depends on your budget and desired features. Here’s a simple guide:
1. LX: The value leader. Comes well-equipped with a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a multi-angle rearview camera, and a 5-inch display.
2. EX: Adds popular features like a sunroof, heated front seats, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the more powerful 1.5L turbo engine.
3. EX-T: Similar to EX but adds fog lights and dual-zone automatic climate control.
4. EX-L: Includes leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
5. Touring: The top-of-the-line model. It adds LED headlights, navigation, a premium audio system, and Honda Sensing® as standard.
The Honda Sensing® Safety Suite
Available on the EX and above trims (standard on Touring), this package was a game-changer for safety in its class. It included:
* Collision Mitigation Braking System: Can apply the brakes if a frontal collision is imminent.
* Road Departure Mitigation: Helps steer you back into your lane if you start to drift off.
* Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set following distance from the car ahead.
* Lane Keeping Assist: Gives gentle steering corrections to help keep you centered.
This technology made the Civic not only safer but also less fatiguing to drive on long journeys.
Fuel Efficiency You Can Count On
One of the most practical aspects of the Civic’s reliability is its fuel sipping nature. The numbers were impressive then and remain so today.
* 2.0L Engine (CVT): EPA estimated at 31 mpg city / 41 mpg highway / 35 mpg combined.
* 1.5L Turbo Engine (CVT): EPA estimated at 31 mpg city / 42 mpg highway / 35 mpg combined.
In real-world driving, many owners reported achieving these numbers or even better on highway trips. The efficient CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) played a big role here, though a 6-speed manual was available on the LX and EX trims for those who prefered more engagement.
Buying a Used 2016 Civic: A Step-by-Step Guide
If your considering a used 2016 Civic, following these steps can help you find a great one.
1. Set Your Budget: Include not just the purchase price, but also taxes, registration, and a pre-purchase inspection.
2. Choose Your Trim: Decide which features are must-haves (like Honda Sensing® or a sunroof) and which you can live without.
3. Search Listings: Use reputable websites. Look for sellers with detailed service history.
4. Check the Vehicle History Report: Always get the VIN and run a report through Carfax or AutoCheck. Look for accidents, number of owners, and service records.
5. Contact the Seller: Ask specific questions about any issues, recent maintenance, and why they are selling.
6. Schedule a Test Drive: Drive the car on different road types. Test all features: A/C, infotainment, windows, etc.
7. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: This is non-negotiable. Have a trusted mechanic put the car on a lift and check for problems.
8. Negotiate and Close: Use any findings from the inspection or history report to negotiate a fair price.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
To keep your 2016 Civic running smoothly for years to come, adhere to the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual. Here are key points:
* Oil Changes: Use synthetic 0W-20 oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This is critical for the turbo engine.
* Tire Rotations: Rotate tires every 7,500 miles to ensure even wear.
* CVT Fluid: The transmission fluid should be changed every 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Don’t ignore this.
* Engine Air Filter: Replace it every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
* Brake Fluid: Flush the brake fluid every 3 years, regardless of mileage.
* Coolant: The factory coolant is long-life, but it should be replaced at the 10-year or 120,000-mile mark.
Following these steps will help protect your investment and ensure that blend of performance and reliability continues.
FAQ Section
Q: Is the 2016 Honda Civic a good car?
A: Yes, it is widely regarded as one of the best compact cars of its generation. It offers an excellent mix of style, space, fuel economy, and driving enjoyment, all backed by strong reliability.
Q: What are common problems with the 2016 Civic?
A: The most frequent issues involve the air conditioning condenser failing, occasional touchscreen glitches, and some reports of thin paint. It’s overall, however, a very dependable vehicle.
Q: Which is better, the 2.0L or 1.5L turbo engine?
A: The 1.5L turbo offers more power and torque, making acceleration feel stronger, especially at highway speeds. The 2.0L is a proven, simple engine that is very reliable. The turbo is more fun, but both are excellent choices.
Q: Does the 2016 Civic have Apple CarPlay?
A: Yes, but only in EX trims and above. The LX trim does not have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2016 Honda Civic?
A: With the CVT automatic, both engines get around 31 mpg in the city and 41-42 mpg on the highway. Real-world mileage is often very close to these EPA estimates.
Q: Is the 2016 Civic expensive to maintain?
A: No, maintenance costs are generally below average for the compact car class. Honda parts are widely available, and many repairs are straightforward for mechanics.
Final Thoughts
The 2016 Honda Civic successfully redefined what a compact car could be. It didn’t force you to choose between comfort and excitement, or between efficiency and power. It delivered on all fronts in a well-rounded package. For anyone seeking a used car that feels modern, drives great, and won’t cost a fortune to keep on the road, the 2016 Civic remains a top-tier contender. Its enduring popularity in the used car market is a testament to just how right Honda got it with this model. Whether you find a base LX or a loaded Touring, your getting a vehicle that exemplifies a true blend of daily-driving performance and long-term reliability.