Honda Civic Hybrid - 2008 Review

We made the decision to downgrade from a Honda Odyssey to the Civic Hybrid when gas prices were still at $4+/gal. Luckily, we got the car before wait lists started and the tax rebate was still in effect. At the time, we also test drove the Toyota Prius but did not care for the limited rear view, small back seat, spring loaded gear shifter, and display windows. Either way, we have been nothing but pleased with the Civic. It has the feeling of a "normal" car with the benefits of a Hybrid. We are averaging 52 mpg for the life of the car (about 15,000 miles thus far.) It has even changed our driving habits for the better; because we can view the actual mpg at any given second, it has become a game of sorts to get the "best" mileage. We have started driving on slower roads and "hypermiling" (to a point.) You don't HAVE to do this to get good mileage... without those adjustments, you are going to get mid-40s mpg but we have come to enjoy it.

The pros beyond the gas savings are the side airbags, mp3 jack (aux input), stereo controls on the steering wheel, and cruise control. I understand the 2009 came out with a few options that make it a tad more luxurious (leather, for example) but I find this unecessary. Honda as a car company is one that is reliable and trustworthy.