2013 Honda Civic Preview

Interior Features

All 2013 Honda Civic models receive soft-touch material on the dashboard and upper door panels, as well as what the automaker characterizes as "more luxurious finishes." The dashboard's textures and seams are refined, seat fabrics and the headliner material are upgraded, and black carpeting is standard for all trim levels. A Black interior color choice is also added for 2013.

Additionally, in an effort to eliminate unwanted cabin noise, the 2013 Civic is equipped with thicker windshield and side window glass as well as additional soundproofing materials.

All versions of the 2013 Civic come standard with Bluetooth hands-free calling, Bluetooth streaming audio capability, SMS text messaging capability, Pandora Internet radio interface, USB/iPod connection, and steering wheel controls for the radio functions. A reversing camera is also standard for 2013, along with an exterior temperature display and a sliding center armrest.

Optional Features

A navigation system continues as an option for the Civic EX, EX-L, Si, Hybrid, and Natural Gas trim levels. For 2013, it includes a new multi-view reversing camera, an upgrade over the standard single-view camera. Hybrid models are additionally available with leather seats as a separate upgrade, while the Si trim level can be equipped with summer performance tires.

Under the Hood

The 2013 Civic is equipped with the same engine lineup as before, but receives mechanical upgrades in the form of revised suspension tuning, recalibrated steering tuning, and, on the LX, EX and EX-L trims with an automatic transmission, larger front brake discs. The intended result of these changes is to "sharpen" the Civic's handling and refine its ride quality.

Safety

The 2013 Honda Civic is equipped with new SmartVent side-impact air bags, and a new rollover sensor for the side-curtain air bags. The 2013 Civic Hybrid can be equipped with an optional forward-collision warning system and a lane-departure warning system.

More important, however, is the 2013 Civic's new Advanced Compatibility Engineering II (ACE II) body structure. It employs a greater amount of high-strength steel, which Honda says will enable the Civic to perform well in the new small overlap frontal-impact crash-test administered by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

2012 Honda Civic Ratings
Honda Car & Truck Ratings