If you’re in the market for a reliable and popular compact car, the 2019 Honda Civic is likely on your list. This guide covers the 2019 Honda Civic – Everything You Need to Know to make an informed decision.
We’ll look at all the trim levels, what makes it drive so well, and the features that matter most. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether this Civic is the right car for your daily drives and your budget.
2019 Honda Civic – Everything You Need to Know
The 2019 model year brought some welcome refinements to the already excellent tenth-generation Civic. Honda tweaked the styling, added more standard features, and made sure it stayed at the top of its class. It’s a car that successfully balances fun driving with practical, everyday use.
Whether you’re considering a sedan, coupe, or the versatile hatchback, there’s a version for you. Let’s break down the details.
Trim Levels and Body Styles Explained
The 2019 Civic comes in several shapes and sizes. You can choose the classic four-door sedan, the sporty two-door coupe, or the practical five-door hatchback. Each body style has its own set of trim levels, which can get a bit confusing.
Here’s a simple list of the main trims for the sedan, from most basic to most luxurious:
* LX
* Sport
* EX
* EX-L
* Touring
The hatchback adds more performance flavor with trims like the Sport and the mighty Sport Touring. The coupe follows a similar pattern to the sedan but with fewer options. The high-performance Civic Si and Type R are separate models with their own unique features.
Engine Options and Performance
Under the hood, you’ll find two main engines. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 158 horsepower. It’s paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). This engine is perfectly adequate for daily commuting.
The upgrade is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It makes 174 horsepower in most trims, but 180 in the Sport hatchback. This turbo engine is the one to get if you enjoy quicker acceleration and more passing power. It feels more energetic and is surprisingly efficient.
For the ultimate experience, the 2019 Civic Si uses a tuned version of the 1.5-liter turbo with 205 horsepower and only comes with a manual gearbox. The Civic Type R, with its 306 horsepower turbocharged engine, is in a league of its own.
Fuel Economy Ratings You Can Trust
One of the Civic’s biggest strengths is its excellent gas mileage. You’ll save money at the pump without trying to hard. The numbers vary depending on the engine and body style you choose.
* 2.0L Engine with CVT: Up to 30 mpg city / 38 mpg highway
* 1.5L Turbo Engine with CVT: Up to 32 mpg city / 42 mpg highway
* 1.5L Turbo Hatchback (CVT): Around 30 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
The manual transmission versions usually get 1-2 mpg less on the highway. These figures are amoung the best in the compact car class, especially for a car that’s also fun to drive.
Interior Comfort and Technology Features
Step inside the 2019 Civic, and you’ll find a modern, well-designed cabin. The materials are good for the class, with soft-touch surfaces where it counts. Even the base LX model comes with a decent list of features.
Standard tech includes a multi-angle rearview camera and a 5-inch central display. Step up to the EX trim, and you get a much better 7-inch touchscreen. This system is where you’ll control the audio, see your phone integration, and adjust settings.
Here’s what becomes available in higher trims:
1. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (standard on EX and above)
2. A digital driver’s display (in the instrument cluster)
3. Dual-zone automatic climate control
4. Heated front seats
5. A power moonroof
6. A premium audio system by Honda
The seats are comfortable for long trips, and rear seat passengers have plenty of legroom. The hatchback offers incredible cargo space with its versatile rear liftgate.
Safety Features and Crash Test Scores
Safety is a strong point for the 2019 Civic. It earned top marks from both major safety testing organizations. It was an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick when equipped with specific headlights.
Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, became standard on every single 2019 Civic trim. This was a huge deal and includes:
* Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead.
* Collision Mitigation Braking: Can apply the brakes if a frontal crash is imminent.
* Lane Keeping Assist: Gently steers you back into your lane if you drift.
* Road Departure Mitigation: Helps if you’re about to leave the road unintentionally.
Having these features standard gave the Civic a major advantage over competitors who charged extra for them.
Driving Impressions and Handling
This is where the Civic really shines. The 2019 model is engaging to drive, with sharp steering and a comfortable yet controlled ride. It handles corners with confidence, feeling more stable and solid than many other compact cars.
The turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration when you need it. The CVT automatic is one of the better ones on the market; it simulates gear changes to feel more natural. If you enjoy driving, the manual transmission options are smooth and satisfying.
The cabin is quiet at highway speeds, with minimal wind or road noise. Overall, the driving experience is refined and enjoyable, making your daily commute or a weekend trip more pleasant.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Honda has a legendary reputation for reliability, and the Civic is a cornerstone of that. The 2019 model is expected to be very dependable over the long term. Routine maintenance is straightforward and shouldn’t be to expensive.
While not the absolute cheapest car to insure in its class, rates are generally reasonable. Its high resale value is a major benefit. When it’s time to sell or trade-in, you’ll get more of your money back compared to many rivals.
Pros and Cons of the 2019 Model
Let’s weigh the good and the not-so-good to give you a balanced view.
Pros:
* Excellent standard safety tech (Honda Sensing)
* Sporty handling and fun driving dynamics
* Spacious and practical interior, especially the hatchback
* Great fuel economy, particularly with the turbo engine
* Strong reputation for reliability and high resale value
Cons:
* The base LX trim’s 5-inch display feels outdated
* Some interior materials on lower trims feel a bit cheap
* Road noise can be noticeable on certain pavement types
* The CVT, while good, can get noisy under hard acceleration
What to Look For When Buying Used
If you’re shopping for a used 2019 Civic, here are some key steps to follow. A careful inspection can save you from future headaches and ensure you get a good car.
First, always get a vehicle history report using the VIN. This will show you reported accidents, service records, and how many owners the car has had. It’s a essential first step.
Next, take these steps during your test drive:
1. Check all the electronics: Test the touchscreen, every USB port, and all speakers.
2. Listen for unusual noises: Drive on different road surfaces and listen for rattles or suspension clunks.
3. Test the Honda Sensing features: Make sure adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist engage properly on a safe road.
4. Inspect the tires: Uneven wear could indicate an alignment issue from a past incident.
5. Look for body panel gaps: Inconsistent gaps might signal prior repair work.
Finally, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. It’s worth the small fee for peace of mind.
How It Compares to Key Rivals
The compact car segment is full of great options. Here’s how the Civic stacks up against two of it’s biggest competitors.
Vs. Toyota Corolla: The 2019 Corolla is also very reliable and safe. However, its driving experience is more focused on comfort than fun. The Civic offers more passenger space, a more powerful turbo engine option, and generally feels more engaging from behind the wheel.
Vs. Mazda3: The Mazda3 has a more upscale interior and is arguably even more fun to drive. But the Civic beats it on rear-seat legroom, cargo space (especially against the Mazda3 sedan), and standard driver-assistance features for the 2019 model year.
The Civic’s blend of space, efficiency, sportiness, and value is hard to beat, which is why it’s consistently one of the best-selling cars in America.
FAQ Section
What are the main problems with the 2019 Honda Civic?
There are few widespread issues. Some early 10th-gen models had problems, but the 2019 is largely solid. Occasional complaints include a crackling sound from the speakers or minor interior rattles. Always check for open recalls, like one for the fuel pump that affected some 2019 models.
Is the 2019 Honda Civic a good used car?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best used compact cars you can buy. With standard Honda Sensing, proven reliability, and low cost of ownership, it’s a smart and safe choice for most buyers.
What is the difference between the 2019 and 2020 Honda Civic?
The changes were very minor. The 2020 Civic got standard automatic climate control on the EX trim and above, and some new wheel designs. Mechanically, the cars are identical, so a 2019 model often represents better value.
How much should I pay for a used 2019 Honda Civic?
Prices depend heavily on trim, mileage, and location. As a general guide, expect to pay more for low-mileage EX and Touring trims. The hatchback and Si models also command a premium. Always check local listings to see the market in your area.
Is the 1.5 turbo engine reliable in the 2019 Civic?
Yes, the 1.5-liter turbo engine has proven to be reliable. There were some concerns earlier in its life about oil dilution in cold climates, but Honda issued software updates to address this. For the 2019 model year, it’s considered a robust and efficient engine. Just follow the recommended maintenance schedule.
The 2019 Honda Civic remains a top-tier choice for anyone seeking a compact car. It delivers a nearly perfect mix of practicality, efficiency, safety, and driving enjoyment. Whether you find a well-kept sedan, a stylish coupe, or the ultra-useful hatchback, you’re getting a vehicle that will serve you well for many years and miles. With this complete guide, you have all the information to find the right one for you.