The 2021 Honda Civic is a cornerstone of the compact car segment, offering a compelling mix of reliability, efficiency, and driving fun. If you’re considering this popular sedan or hatchback, here is all you need to know about its features, specs, and value.
The model year 2021 brought a refresh just before a full redesign, making it a smart buy with proven technology and a polished driving experience. This guide will walk you through every detail, from trim levels and engine options to safety tech and real-world ownership costs. We’ll help you decide if the 2021 Civic is the right car for your needs and budget.
2021 Honda Civic – All You Need to Know
The 2021 lineup includes the Civic Sedan and the more versatile Civic Hatchback. Both body styles share core characteristics but cater to slightly different lifestyles. The sedan offers a classic, sleek profile and a spacious trunk, while the hatchback provides increased cargo flexibility with its folding rear seats and large rear opening.
This was the final model year of the tenth generation, which means Honda had perfected its formula. You benefit from years of refinement, resulting in a car that feels solid, well-built, and thoroughly sorted out on the road.
Available Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2021 Civic was offered in several trim levels, each adding more features and technology. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the differences.
For the Civic Sedan:
* LX: The base model, but still well-equipped with a 2.0L engine, automatic climate control, and a multi-angle rearview camera.
* Sport: Adds more aggressive styling, 18-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a center exhaust.
* EX: Focuses on comfort and convenience, featuring a sunroof, a more powerful 1.5L turbo engine, heated front seats, and a smart entry system.
* EX-L: Adds leather-trimmed seats for a more premium feel.
* Touring: The top-tier model with LED headlights, navigation, a premium audio system, and Honda Sensing® as standard.
The Civic Hatchback lineup was sportier:
* Sport: Similar to the sedan but with a unique rear spoiler and a 6-speed manual transmission option.
* EX-L: Comes with the 1.5L turbo, leather, and a sunroof.
* Sport Touring: The ultimate hatch, featuring all the Touring sedan’s luxury features plus a high-performance appearance.
Pricing when new started around $21,000 for the LX Sedan and climbed to just over $28,000 for a fully loaded Sport Touring Hatchback. On the used market, prices vary significantly based on mileage, condition, and location.
Engine Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2021 Civic offered two excellent four-cylinder engine choices, both known for their reliability.
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Engine (LX & Sport Sedan)
* Produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque.
* Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or, in the Sport Sedan, an available 6-speed manual.
* Fuel Economy: An EPA-estimated 30 mpg city / 38 mpg highway / 33 mpg combined. This engine is praised for its smooth, linear power delivery.
1.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine (EX and above, all Hatchbacks)
* Delivers 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque (180 hp/177 lb-ft in Sport trims with 6-speed manual).
* Offers stronger acceleration, especially in the mid-range, making highway merging easier.
* Fuel Economy: Remains impressive at up to 32 mpg city / 42 mpg highway with the CVT. The turbo engine provides a great balance of pep and efficiency.
Both engines run on regular 87-octane fuel, which helps keep running costs low. The CVT is tuned to mimic traditional gears in Sport mode, reducing the “rubber band” feeling some drivers dislike.
Driving Dynamics and Comfort
The Civic’s reputation for fun-to-drive character is well-earned. Its steering is precise, and the suspension strikes a near-perfect balance. It soaks up bumps comfortably without feeling floaty, while maintaining agile handling in corners.
The cabin is remarkably quiet for a compact car, with good insulation from road and wind noise. The driving position is excellent, with a low hood line and supportive seats that make long journeys comfortable. Overall, it feels more sophisticated than many rivals.
Interior Design, Space, and Technology
Step inside the 2021 Civic, and you’ll find a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials. The design is clean and functional, with physical knobs for climate control—a welcome feature for easy operation while driving.
Passenger and Cargo Space:
* Front Seat Room: Ample headroom and legroom for most adults.
* Rear Seat Room: The Civic’s rear seat is a class leader, easily accommodating two adults comfortably, even on longer trips. Three can fit in a pinch.
* Trunk/Cargo: The Sedan boasts a large 15.1 cubic-foot trunk. The Hatchback offers 25.7 cu-ft behind the rear seats and 46.2 cu-ft with them folded down, providing exceptional versatility.
Technology and Infotainment:
Every 2021 Civic came with a 5-inch central screen (7-inch on EX and above). The system is straightforward to use.
* Standard Features: Bluetooth, a USB port, and a multi-angle rearview camera.
* Upgraded Features (EX and above): Honda’s 7-inch Display Audio with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, a second USB port, and satellite radio.
* Audio Systems: Ranged from a 4-speaker system in the LX to a 450-watt 10-speaker premium system in Touring trims.
Honda Sensing® Safety Suite
One of the Civic’s strongest selling points is its comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. Honda Sensing® became standard on the EX trim and above, and was a popular option on lower trims. It includes:
* Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Can apply the brakes if a potential frontal collision is detected.
* Road Departure Mitigation System: Helps steer you back into your lane if you start to drift without a signal.
* Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set following distance from the car ahead, great for highway driving.
* Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Provides gentle steering input to help keep you centered in your lane.
These systems work effectively and unobtrusively, adding a significant layer of safety. All trims also came with a multi-angle rearview camera, and Touring models added front and rear parking sensors.
Common Issues and Reliability
The 2021 Honda Civic has a strong predicted reliability rating. However, no car is perfect. Being aware of potential issues is part of being a smart buyer.
* Infotainment Glitches: Some owners report occasional screen freezes or connectivity drops with CarPlay/Android Auto. A system reboot usually fixes this.
* Paint Thickness: Honda paint, while durable, can be thin. Some owners note chips on the hood and front bumper more easily than on some competitors.
* CVT Behavior: In very cold weather, the CVT may exhibit a slight “judder” or hesitation until it warms up. This is normal for many CVTs.
* Battery Life: The factory battery in some models may need replacement sooner than expected, often around the 3-year mark.
Routine maintenance is straightforward, and repair costs are typically lower than average for the class. Always get a used vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase.
Step-by-Step: Buying a Used 2021 Civic
If you’re ready to buy, follow these steps to ensure you get a good deal on a solid car.
1. Set Your Budget: Include not just the purchase price, but also taxes, registration, insurance, and potential immediate maintenance.
2. Choose Your Body Style and Trim: Decide if you need the Sedan’s trunk or the Hatchback’s flexibility. Prioritize the features you must have (e.g., heated seats, Honda Sensing®).
3. Search Listings: Use online marketplaces, dealer websites, and certified pre-owned (CPO) programs. Honda CPO offers a warranty extension and a thorough inspection.
4. Check the Vehicle History Report: Always get the VIN and run a report through Carfax or AutoCheck. Look for a clean title, regular maintenance records, and no major accidents.
5. Contact the Seller: Ask specific questions about service history, any accidents, and the reason for selling.
6. Schedule a Pre-Purchase Inspection: This is non-negotiable. Pay a mechanic to put the car on a lift and check for issues, leaks, or previous repairs.
7. Take a Thorough Test Drive: Drive on various roads. Test all features: infotainment, climate control, windows, and safety systems like ACC.
8. Negotiate and Finalize: Use any findings from the inspection or history report to negotiate the price. Review all paperwork carefully before signing.
Ownership Costs and Resale Value
The Civic is famously affordable to own. Its fuel efficiency keeps gas costs down, and insurance rates are reasonable for the segment. Scheduled maintenance is inexpensive, and parts are widely available.
Perhaps one of it’s best financial traits is its strong resale value. Hondas, and Civics in particular, depreciate slower than many competitors. This means you’ll retain more of your investment when it’s time to sell or trade in down the road. It’s a testament to the cars long-term durability and popularity.
FAQ: 2021 Honda Civic
Q: What is the difference between the 2021 Civic Sedan and Hatchback?
A: Beyond the obvious body style, the Hatchback has more cargo versatility, a sportier design standard, and was offered with more performance-oriented trim levels. The Sedan offers a slightly smoother ride and a more traditional look.
Q: Does every 2021 Civic have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
A: No. These features are standard on the EX trim and above. The base LX and Sport (Sedan) trims have a simpler 5-inch display without smartphone integration.
Q: Is the Honda Civic 2021 a good car for a new driver?
A: Absolutely. Its excellent visibility, easy-to-use controls, and standard safety features (especially on trims with Honda Sensing®) make it a very safe and confidence-inspiring choice for new drivers.
Q: How much cargo space does the Civic Hatchback have?
A: With the rear seats up, you get 25.7 cubic feet. Fold them down, and space expands to 46.2 cubic feet, allowing you to carry large items like a bicycle or flat-pack furniture.
Q: What is the towing capacity of a 2021 Civic?
A: Honda does not recommend towing with the Civic. It is not designed for towing, and doing so could void your warranty and cause significant damage to the transmission and engine.
Q: Are there any major problems with the 2021 Civic I should watch for?
A: There are no widespread, catastrophic issues. The most common complaints involve minor electronic gremlins in the infotainment system or early battery replacement, as mentioned earlier. Overall, its a very dependable vehicle.
The 2021 Honda Civic remains a top-tier choice in the compact car category. It delivers on the core promises of transportation—reliability, efficiency, and safety—while adding a level of driving engagement and interior space that rivals struggle to match. Whether you choose the practical Sedan or the versatile Hatchback, you’re getting a vehicle with a proven track record and a high chance of providing years of satisfying service. By understanding the trim levels, engines, and features, you can confidently find the specific 2021 Civic that fits your life and budget perfectly.