2005 Honda Civic Hybrid | Review | Buying Guide
The Civic Hybrid and HX are the two gas-mileage leaders in the Civic family. While the Hybrid uses a gasoline-electric engine (as its name suggests) and the HX uses a traditional gasoline engine, the two are linked with their available CVT transmissions.
CVT stands for continuously-variable transmission. In effect, Civic Hybrid and HX models with this setup have a transmission with a near infinite number of shift points. Rather than the old automatic configuration, CVT finds just the right ratio. The result is less fuel consumption and fewer emissions.
Honda is the king of the hybrid. The Civic Hybrid enters its third year as the first mainstream gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle sold in North America. Honda led all other automakers in consumer registrations of hybrid vehicles in calendar year 2003 with 23,048 Civic and Insight hybrid vehicle registrations combined.
Under the Hood
The Civic HX’s engine is a 1.7-liter inline 4-cylinder model. It produces 117 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 110 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. Models with CVT get a fuel rating of 35/40 mpg, while 5-speed manual models get 36/44 mpg.
The Hybrid uses a 1.3-liter gasoline-electric I4 that offers 93 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 116 lb-ft of torque at 1500 rpm. Hybrid models with CVT get 47/48 mpg, while 5-speed manual models get 45/51 mpg.
The Civic Hybrid uses Honda's innovative Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) technology. The system's compact nickel-metal hydride battery module is automatically recharged during braking and deceleration.
You want to drive on long trips without spending too much money on gas? Try the Civic Hybrid; it has a range of more than 600 miles.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The HX is more of an entry-level model than the Hybrid, which costs more and offers more features. Still, the HX comes equipped with cruise control, power mirrors and door locks, an AM/FM/CD player, a tachometer and alloy wheels.
The Civic Hybrid comes equipped with a long list of standard features including an anti-theft device, a tilt steering wheel, a rear spoiler, automatic climate control, a trip computer and variable-intermittent wipers. The Hybrid is the only Civic to offer automatic climate control this year.
For 2005, the Civic Hybrid adds a new exterior color: Eternal Blue Pearl.
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