I’ve looked at a bunch of cars. Sedans, wagons, coupes.
For my money, for my desire, for my driving habits, I think I’ve narrowed things down to, essentially, the Honda Civic.
Yes, the full-sized 2006 Honda Civic. There are three model types, the DX, LX and EX. I’m thinking I’m liking the EX because, after all, that’s the one I drove.
A friend of mine at work recently purchased a 2006 Civic and allowed me a brief drive. I enjoyed every moment and then some.
First, I have to admit: I really like the styling of the new Civics. My fiance doesn’t care for the styling at all. I suppose it’s a love/hate relationship. But then again she wants a new Toyota Tundra pickup truck. She’s into fantasy; I’m into reality. In my opinion, gas ain’t goin’ down in price boys and girls. Those who think so are sorely deranged.
So, momentarily, let’s attack that MPG factor.
MPG of any given Tundra sucks. Period.
My 2003 Subaru Outback Sport gets around 22 to 23 mpg. That’s on a forgiving day.
With only two weeks on the odometer, my friend drove his new Civic to the Bay Area and back, and acquired 48 mpg. Last weekend he drove from Placerville to the East Bay and back. He acquired 43 mpg. And folks: that’s with a brand new engine. Mileage only gets better with a few more miles.
Quite frankly, those figures are better than the ones quoted by hybrid vehicles.
Here’s my take on Hybrids:
- Slow
- Ugly
- Minimal engine
- Huge battery box replacement costs
- Complicated electronic system susceptible to failure
The 2006 Honda Civic acquired an overall superior mileage figure to that of any Toyota or Honda Hybrid. Hybrid figures, people are discovering, are laced with falsehoods. The Honda Civic automatic gets better gas mileage than the standard transmission — due to its algorithmic shifting points. I am told it does not hunt for gears whilst traveling uphill.
I’m going to investigate having a Civic in my future.
BZ
She is right. Reality is men need pick ups.
I have a new strategy for dealing with the rising price of fuel. I’m going to make more money.
Honda has always been able to get some of the best fuel efficient vehicles out on the road that still perform well. Look to get a CVT with Grade Logic Control for your hefty up/down-hill rides… should give a damn smooth ride….
My problem with pick-ups, and I have seen it in action… when you have one… *everyone* you know is your *friend* who needs help *moving* something… my cousin Steve had that exact problem… very nice man, no life because he owned a pick-up… after a decade of that, he finally killed that beast and got a nice, small car… and suddenly weekends were freed up! Amazing!
Its *not* the mileage with a pick-up… its the damn *friends*…
05 06 06
Good post BZ:
I have to admit that I have always found the Honda Civics to be quite useful, but not attractive. But I am referring to the little hatchback model that my sister in law has. We had a Honda Station Wagon (rare only made a few in 1994 or so) until some jerks stole it. So then we got a Volvo Station Wagon 1997 850GLT and it STILL goes and goes and goes (provided maintenance is done ON SCHEDULE!). And I don’t feel bad about buying non American because I think Ford owns Volvo now or something;)
However, we DO need another car soon and if we cannot afford another Used Volvo (but Sedan this time), then we have considered a Honda OR a Volkswagon.
Best Wishes with your auto choice. And sending you some good thoughts. Have a great weekend BZ:)
Very cool!! Looks great, hope you enjoy it.
Blo,
I knew you would make the right choice. Honda civics are incredible. we own an older one, however I have heard from EVERY mechanic i know that the Honda civic is on of the cars they never see in their shop for repairs.
They just keep getting better looking, man that one looks awesome! ENJOY!