Same powertrain
The 2012 Honda Civic gets the same 1.8L 4-cylinder engine found in the previous-generation model, albeit with a few tweaks to improve fuel economy. Output remains unchanged at 140 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque. Connected to a 5-speed automatic, our Civic EX tester strolls to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.

Although some competitors sport an extra cog in their automatics, the Civic’s gearbox does a good job of keeping the engine under control; at 100 km/h, the 4-cylinder spins at 2,000 rpm. Fuel economy over the course of the week is averaging 8.2L/100km.

If you’re looking for driving excitement, however, you might have to consider the Mazda3 or Mitsubishi Lancer instead of the Honda. The Civic can handle itself, no problem, but it’s not as nimble or playful as it once was. That’s what happens when you grow up.

The consumer has spoken
With a base price of $20,690 for the automatic Civic EX, Honda is within range of its similarly-equipped rivals, such as the Mazda3 GS ($20,590), the Toyota Corolla LE ($20,665) and the Hyundai Elantra GL ($20,909). By the way, you can only get a manual gearbox with the base DX, which means the cheapest automatic Civic will set you back $18,690; odd strategy here.

Whether the automotive press likes the Civic or not, it will continue to sell like hotcakes. We can argue that it’s not our personal favourite for several reasons, but almost 5,000 buyers a month in Canada can’t all be wrong or risk-takers. I guess it’s “mission accomplished” for Honda.

The Civic EX with an automatic transmission costs $20,690. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com)