If you’re looking for a compact car that gets almost everything right, your search often leads to one name. The 2023 Honda Civic is a blend of performance and reliability that stands out in a crowded field. It builds on a legendary reputation with sharp new looks, a better cabin, and the sensible engineering you expect. This isn’t just another sedan or hatchback; it’s a refined, smart choice for daily life.
Let’s look at what makes the 2023 model so compelling. We’ll cover its performance, its famously dependable build, and the features that make it a joy to live with every day.
2023 Honda Civic – a Blend of Performance and Reliability
This headline isn’t just marketing talk. It’s the core identity of the car. Honda has masterfully balanced driving fun with long-term peace of mind. You get a responsive, efficient powertrain wrapped in a body known for lasting decades. It’s a car that feels good today and will still be there for you years from now.
What’s New for the 2023 Model Year?
The Civic’s redesign for 2022 was a huge success. For 2023, Honda focused on smart refinements and adding more value. Key updates include:
- The Sport trim now gets a sunroof as standard equipment.
- Blind Spot Information System is now standard on more trims, including EX and Sport Touring.
- New sonic gray pearl paint color becomes available.
- The Civic Si performance sedan receives a new limited-slip differential for better grip.
- Overall, the enhancements make an already strong package even more appealing.
Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics
Don’t let the Civic’s practical nature fool you. It offers one of the most engaging driving experiences in its class. The steering is precise, the ride is comfortable yet controlled, and the engines are perfectly suited for both commuting and backroad fun.
Powertrain Options
Two excellent four-cylinder engines are available:
- 2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Engine: Standard on LX and Sport trims. It produces 158 horsepower. It’s smooth, reliable, and pairs with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed manual in the Sport trim.
- 1.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine: Available on EX, Sport (hatchback), and Touring trims. It generates 180 horsepower (200 hp in the Si). This engine provides strong acceleration and impressive fuel economy. The CVT here is one of the best in the industry, simulating gear shifts for a more natural feel.
On the Road Feel
The 2023 Civic’s chassis is a highlight. It feels solid and planted, absorbing bumps without being floaty. Body roll in corners is minimal. Whether you choose the sedan or the more versatile hatchback, you get a car that is confident and predictable. The manual transmission in the Sport and Si models is a particular joy for driving enthusiasts, with a light, crisp shifter.
Legendary Honda Reliability
Performance means little if the car spends to much time in the shop. This is where the Civic truly shines. Honda’s reputation for building durable, long-lasting vehicles is well-earned, and the 2023 Civic is a prime example.
Proven Engineering
Honda uses well-tested engine designs and components. The 2.0L engine has been in use for years, known for its simplicity and longevity. Even the 1.5L turbo, while more modern, is now in its second generation with many early issues resolved. This focus on proven tech reduces the risk of major problems.
Strong Predicted Reliability Scores
Major automotive publications consistently give the Civic high marks for predicted reliability. Key factors include:
- Low expected cost of ownership over five years.
- High owner satisfaction and loyalty rates.
- Strong historical data from previous model years.
Choosing a Civic means you’re investing in a vehicle that will retain its value and won’t burden you with constant, unexpected repairs.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside, and the 2023 Civic feels like a step up from pervious generations. The design is clean, modern, and focused on the driver. Materials quality has improved significantly, with soft-touch surfaces where they matter most.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every 2023 Civic comes with a user-friendly touchscreen. The system is responsive and the menu layout is logical.
- Base System (7-inch): Standard on LX and Sport. Includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both wired.
- Upgraded System (9-inch): Standard on EX and above. Adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with more customizability.
The digital instrument cluster on higher trims is clear and configurable, putting important information right in front of you.
Passenger and Cargo Space
The Civic is surprisingly roomy. Front and rear seats offer ample head and legroom for adults. The trunk is large for the class, and the hatchback version offers incredible versatility with its wide opening and fold-flat rear seats. It’s a car that can easily handle a family road trip or a big hardware store run.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a critical part of reliability. The 2023 Civic excels here, earning top marks from safety institutes. Honda’s commitment to safety is evident in its comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies.
Honda Sensing® Suite
This package of features comes standard on every single 2023 Civic trim. It includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System: Can apply the brakes if a frontal collision is imminent.
- Road Departure Mitigation System: Helps steer you back into your lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set following distance from the car ahead.
- Lane Keeping Assist System: Provides gentle steering input to help keep you centered.
These systems work seamlessly and are tuned to feel natural, not intrusive.
Top Safety Picks
The 2023 Civic sedan and hatchback both earned the highest possible rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They are named a TOP SAFETY PICK+ when equipped with specific headlights. This award considers crashworthiness, crash avoidance, and child seat anchors.
Fuel Efficiency: Saving Money at the Pump
Great performance paired with excellent fuel economy is a Honda specialty. The 2023 Civic delivers numbers that will save you money over the long run, contributing to its low cost of ownership.
- Civic Sedan (2.0L CVT): 31 mpg city / 40 mpg highway / 35 mpg combined.
- Civic Sedan (1.5T CVT): 33 mpg city / 42 mpg highway / 36 mpg combined.
- Civic Hatchback (1.5T CVT): 31 mpg city / 38 mpg highway / 34 mpg combined.
These figures are amoung the best in the non-hybrid compact car segment. The manual transmission versions see a slight decrease but are still very efficient.
Trim Level Breakdown: Which One is Right For You?
With several trims available, you can choose the Civic that best fits your budget and feature wants. Here’s a quick guide:
- LX: The value leader. Comes well-equipped with Honda Sensing®, automatic climate control, and the 2.0L engine.
- Sport: Adds sporty styling cues, larger wheels, a rear spoiler, and the choice of a 6-speed manual. The sedan gets the 2.0L, while the hatchback gets the more powerful 1.5T.
- EX: Steps up with the 1.5T engine, heated front seats, a sunroof, the larger 9-inch screen, and wireless smartphone integration.
- Sport Touring (Hatchback only): The top-tier hatch. Includes all EX features plus Bose audio, leather seats, and unique styling.
- Touring (Sedan only): The luxury-oriented sedan trim, with leather, navigation, and the Bose audio system.
- Si (Sedan only): The performance specialist. Features a more powerful 200-hp 1.5T, sport-tuned suspension, unique seats, and a 6-speed manual only.
Ownership Costs and Value Retention
The Civic’s reliability directly translates into financial smartness. It’s affordable to maintain, cheap to insure, and holds its value exceptionally well.
- Maintenance: Honda’s maintenance schedule is straightforward, and parts are widely available and relatively inexpensive.
- Depreciation: After three years, a Civic typically retains over 60% of its original value, which is outstanding for a mainstream compact car.
- Warranty: Comes with Honda’s standard 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
When you sell or trade-in down the road, you’ll be glad you choose a Civic.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
No car is perfect for everyone. Here are a few points to think about:
- The base LX audio system sound quality is just average.
- Some rivals offer more powerful base engines or all-wheel drive (AWD is not available on any Civic).
- The rear seat doesn’t fold on the Civic Si sedan, limiting its utility.
- Road noise, while improved, can still be more noticeable than in some competitors like the Mazda3.
These are minor trade-offs for most buyers, but they’re worth noting during your decision process.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2023 Civic?
The 2023 Honda Civic is an exceptional all-arounder. It’s ideal for:
- First-time car buyers who want something safe, efficient, and dependable.
- Small families needing a practical, roomy, and fuel-efficient daily driver.
- Driving enthusiasts who want engagement without sacrificing practicality or breaking the bank.
- Anyone who prioritizes long-term ownership costs and plans to keep their car for many years.
It successfully delivers on its promise as a balanced, competent, and trustworthy vehicle. The 2023 Honda Civic remains a benchmark in the compact car segment because it does so many things so well, for so long.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the 2023 Honda Civic a good car?
Yes, it is widely regarded as one of the best compact cars available. It offers a great mix of performance, reliability, safety, and interior space.
What is the difference between the Civic sedan and hatchback?
Styling and utility are the main differences. The hatchback offers a more versatile cargo area with a large rear opening and fold-flat seats. The sedan has a more traditional trunk and sometimes a slightly smoother ride.
How fast is the 2023 Honda Civic?
The turbocharged 1.5-liter engine provides strong acceleration. The Civic Si can reach 0-60 mph in around 7 seconds, while standard turbo models are slightly slower but still very peppy for daily driving.
Is the Honda Civic expensive to maintain?
No, it is not. Honda Civics have historically had below-average maintenance and repair costs compared to other vehicles in there class, contributing to their high reliability reputation.
Does the 2023 Civic have Android Auto?
Yes, all trims come standard with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. On EX trims and above, this connectivity is wireless, which is a very convenient feature.
What are the main competitors to the Civic?
The main rivals include the Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, Hyundai Elantra, and Kia Forte. The Civic often leads in areas like interior space, driving dynamics, and resale value.