The 2009 Honda Civic is a compact car that has made a significant impact on the automotive industry.
Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, the Honda Civic has become a popular choice among drivers worldwide.
Whether you’re considering buying a used 2009 Honda Civic or simply interested in learning more about this iconic model, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to know.
From its engine specifications and performance capabilities to its safety features and interior amenities, we’ll delve into every aspect of the 2009 Honda Civic, giving you a detailed understanding of what this vehicle has to offer.
Key Specifications of the 2009 Honda Civic
- Engine Options: The 2009 Honda Civic offers two engine options. The base model comes with a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine, producing 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. The Civic Si trim features a more powerful 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, delivering 197 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission Options: The Civic is available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission, offering drivers flexibility in their driving preferences.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2009 Honda Civic is highly fuel-efficient, with the base model achieving an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Civic Hybrid model offers even better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway.
- Safety Features: The 2009 Honda Civic comes equipped with standard safety features, including antilock brakes, front-seat side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, and stability control, ensuring the safety of both the driver and passengers.
- Interior Space: The Civic provides ample interior space, comfortably seating five passengers. The trunk offers 12 cubic feet of cargo space, providing practicality for everyday use.
The Good
- Reliability: The Honda Civic has a reputation for exceptional reliability, making it a trustworthy choice for long-term ownership.
- Fuel Efficiency: With its efficient engine options, the 2009 Civic offers excellent fuel economy, helping drivers save money at the pump.
- Handling and Performance: The Civic delivers a smooth and composed ride, with responsive handling and a comfortable driving experience.
- Practicality: The Civic’s compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while its spacious interior and ample cargo capacity add to its practicality.
- Safety: The inclusion of standard safety features ensures that the 2009 Honda Civic prioritizes the well-being of its occupants.
The Bad
- Road Noise: Some drivers have reported that the 2009 Civic can be noisy on the highway, with noticeable road and wind noise.
- Interior Quality: While the Civic offers a functional interior, the materials used in some areas may feel cheaper compared to competitors in the same segment.
- Limited Engine Options: The 2009 Civic only offers two engine choices, which may not satisfy those seeking higher performance or alternative fuel options.
Improvements Over Previous Models
Compared to previous Honda models in its segment, the 2009 Honda Civic introduced several notable improvements:
- Revised Styling: The 2009 Civic featured updated exterior styling, with a more modern and streamlined appearance compared to its predecessors.
- Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: The 2009 Civic placed a stronger emphasis on fuel efficiency, particularly with the introduction of the Civic Hybrid model, offering even better gas mileage compared to previous generations.
- Expanded Safety Features: Honda equipped the 2009 Civic with standard safety features such as stability control, which were not available on earlier models, enhancing overall safety for drivers and passengers.
- Improved Ride Quality: Honda made refinements to the suspension and chassis of the 2009 Civic, resulting in improved ride comfort and a smoother driving experience compared to previous iterations.
- Interior Upgrades: The interior of the 2009 Civic received upgrades, including improved materials and a refreshed dashboard design, enhancing the overall feel and aesthetics of the cabin.
The Trim Levels of the 2009 Honda Civic
List of Trim Levels with Key Specifications:
Honda Civic DX
The DX trim serves as the base model for the 2009 Honda Civic lineup. It is equipped with a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine producing 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque.
The DX comes with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, with a 5-speed automatic transmission available as an option. Key features include air conditioning, power windows, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and a four-speaker sound system.
Honda Civic LX
The LX trim builds upon the DX’s features and adds a few enhancements. It includes all the standard features of the DX trim and offers additional conveniences such as power door locks, keyless entry, cruise control, and a center console with storage compartment.
The LX also provides improved audio capabilities with a six-speaker sound system and an auxiliary audio jack.
Honda Civic EX
The EX trim offers a step up in features and technology. It includes all the features of the LX trim and adds a power moonroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, and variable intermittent windshield wipers.
Inside, the EX includes upgraded cloth upholstery, a 60/40-split rear seatback, and an upgraded audio system with steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
The EX also offers an optional Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition.
Honda Civic EX-L
The EX-L trim builds upon the EX’s features and adds a touch of luxury. It includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The EX-L offers the same engine options as the other trims and provides an optional navigation system for added convenience.
Honda Civic Si
The Si trim is the sport-oriented variant of the 2009 Honda Civic. It features a more powerful 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, producing 197 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque.
The Si comes with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, sports-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a limited-slip differential.
Additional features include sport seats with red stitching, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a premium audio system with a subwoofer.
Comparison Table of the 2009 Honda Civic Trim Levels
| Trim Level | Key Features |
|---|---|
| DX | 1.8L Inline-4 engine, Manual/Automatic options, Air conditioning, Power windows, Four-speaker sound system |
| LX | All DX features, Power door locks, Keyless entry, Cruise control, Six-speaker sound system, Auxiliary audio jack |
| EX | All LX features, Power moonroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, Upgraded cloth upholstery, Steering wheel-mounted audio controls, Optional navigation system |
| EX-L | All EX features, Leather upholstery, Heated front seats, Leather-wrapped steering wheel, Optional navigation system |
| Si | 2.0L Inline-4 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, Sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, Premium audio system, Limited-slip differential |
Performance of the 2009 Honda Civic
Engine Size, Power, and Type
The 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine across its trim levels. This engine delivers a balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for daily commuting and occasional spirited driving.
Horsepower (Hp)
The 1.8-liter engine in the 2009 Honda Civic produces 140 horsepower. While not the most powerful in its segment, the Civic’s horsepower rating provides sufficient acceleration for most driving situations.
The Civic’s focus is more on fuel efficiency and reliability rather than raw power.
Torque
The 2009 Honda Civic’s 1.8-liter engine generates 128 lb-ft of torque. This torque output allows the Civic to deliver smooth acceleration and adequate low-end power for city driving and highway merging.
The Civic’s torque is well-matched to its engine size, contributing to its overall drivability.
Transmission Options
The 2009 Honda Civic offers both manual and automatic transmission options, depending on the trim level. The manual transmission is a 5-speed gearbox, while the automatic transmission is a 5-speed automatic.
The choice of transmission can impact the driving experience, with the manual transmission offering more engagement and control, while the automatic transmission provides convenience and ease of use.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is one of the highlights of the 2009 Honda Civic. With its 1.8-liter engine and efficient engineering, the Civic achieves impressive fuel economy ratings.
The exact fuel efficiency can vary depending on the trim level and transmission choice but generally ranges from around 25-36 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving.
Suspension and Handling
The 2009 Honda Civic features a well-balanced suspension setup that provides a comfortable ride while maintaining responsive handling characteristics.
It utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which helps deliver a smooth and controlled driving experience.
The Civic’s suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness, allowing for confident cornering and stable highway cruising.
Braking System
The braking system of the 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes (some higher trims may have rear disc brakes).
The braking performance of the Civic is generally considered good, providing reliable stopping power in various driving conditions.
However, it’s worth noting that disc brakes on all four wheels can offer improved braking performance and consistency.
Additional Performance Measuring Factors
Other performance factors that can be considered for the 2009 Honda Civic include acceleration (0-60 mph time), top speed, and handling dynamics.
The Civic’s acceleration is respectable for its class, reaching 0-60 mph in around 9-10 seconds, depending on the trim level and transmission choice.
Its top speed is typically around 120-130 mph, varying slightly based on the specific trim and aerodynamic factors.
In terms of handling, the Civic offers nimble and predictable characteristics, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments and enjoyable to drive on winding roads.
Off-road Ability Depends on Several Factors, Including
Four-wheel Drive
The 2009 Honda Civic is primarily designed as a front-wheel-drive vehicle. It does not come with a standard four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. As a result, its off-road capabilities are limited compared to vehicles specifically built for off-roading.
The Civic’s focus is more on urban and highway driving rather than off-road adventures.
Ground Clearance
The ground clearance of the 2009 Honda Civic varies depending on the trim level and equipment. On average, the Civic offers a ground clearance of around 5.5-6 inches.
While this ground clearance is suitable for navigating typical road conditions, it may not be sufficient for tackling challenging off-road terrains.
It’s important to note that the Civic’s low ground clearance may limit its ability to handle uneven surfaces, large obstacles, or steep inclines encountered in off-road scenarios.
Traction System
The 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a traction control system, which helps optimize traction and stability on slippery or low-traction surfaces.
While this system enhances the vehicle’s handling and safety in adverse weather conditions, it is not specifically designed for off-road use.
The Civic’s traction control system may provide some assistance in light off-road situations, but it is not intended to tackle rugged off-road trails or extreme off-road conditions.
Towing Capacity
The 2009 Honda Civic offers a range of models with different engine options and transmission types. The Si model comes with a 1.8L engine, available in both 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions, providing a braked capacity of 1400kg.
The Type R model stands out with its 2.0L engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, although its braked capacity information is not provided.
The Hybrid variant combines a 1.3L unleaded petrol/electric engine with a continuously variable transmission, while its braked capacity is not specified.
Other models like the 40th Anniversary LE, Sport, VTi, and VTi-L offer a choice between automatic and manual transmissions, with engine options ranging from 1.8L to 2.0L, and braked capacities varying from 800kg to 1200kg.
| Model | Engine | Fuel Type | Transmission | Braked Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Si | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 1400kg | |
| Type R | 2.0L, Premium Unleaded Petrol | 6 SPEED MANUAL | 0kg | |
| Si | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 6 SPEED MANUAL | 1400kg | |
| Hybrid | 1.3L, Unleaded Petrol/Electric | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 0kg | |
| 40th Anniversary LE | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg | |
| Sport | 2.0L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg | |
| VTi | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg | |
| VTi-L | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg | |
| 40th Anniversary LE | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 1200kg | |
| Sport | 2.0L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 800kg | |
| VTi | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 1200kg | |
| VTi-L | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 1200kg |
Cargo Space and Storage
The 2009 Honda Civic offers a decent amount of cargo space for its class. The sedan variant provides a trunk capacity of approximately 12-14 cubic feet, while the coupe variant offers slightly less due to its sportier design.
The Civic’s cargo space is suitable for carrying everyday items and luggage but may not be spacious enough to accommodate larger off-road gear or equipment.
For extensive off-road adventures with significant cargo requirements, additional storage solutions, such as roof racks or trailers, may be necessary.
Additional Considerations
It’s important to keep in mind that the 2009 Honda Civic is primarily designed as a compact sedan or coupe for urban commuting and daily driving.
While it can handle occasional light off-road situations, it is not built or optimized for rugged off-roading.
Engaging in off-road activities beyond the Civic’s capabilities may lead to damage or compromise its performance and reliability.
If you are specifically looking for a vehicle with robust off-road capabilities, it would be advisable to explore other options such as SUVs or trucks that are purpose-built for off-roading, offer four-wheel-drive systems, higher ground clearance, and more rugged components.
Exterior and Styling of the 2009 Honda Civic
The 2009 Honda Civic features a modern and sleek exterior design that exhibits a blend of sportiness and sophistication. Its aerodynamic shape, sculpted lines, and bold front grille contribute to its eye-catching appeal.
The Civic offers a choice of body styles, including a sedan and a coupe, both of which showcase Honda’s signature design elements.
The sedan variant presents a more traditional and refined appearance, while the coupe variant adds a touch of sportiness with its sleek roofline and shorter overall length.
The exterior of the Civic is accentuated by stylish headlights, available fog lights, body-colored door handles and mirrors, and options for alloy wheels, further enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.
Interior Design and Aesthetics
Inside the 2009 Honda Civic, you’ll find a well-designed and functional cabin that exudes a contemporary feel. The interior materials are of good quality, with a combination of soft-touch surfaces and durable materials.
The Civic offers a spacious cabin, providing ample legroom and headroom for both the front and rear occupants.
The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, featuring easy-to-read gauges and logically arranged controls. The center stack houses the audio system and climate controls, which are within easy reach of the driver.
The seats are comfortable and supportive, offering a pleasant driving experience on both short and long journeys.
Overall, the interior of the Civic exhibits a tasteful design and attention to detail, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable driving environment.
Driving Experience and Smoothness
The 2009 Honda Civic delivers a smooth and refined driving experience compared to other car models in its segment. Its suspension system strikes a balance between comfort and handling, absorbing road imperfections and delivering a comfortable ride quality.
The Civic’s chassis is well-tuned, providing nimble and responsive handling, making it an enjoyable car to drive in various driving conditions.
The Civic’s steering is precise and well-weighted, allowing for confident maneuvering and easy navigation through city streets and highways. The car’s overall stability and composure contribute to its smooth and composed driving characteristics.
Additionally, the Civic offers a quiet cabin, with minimal road and wind noise intrusion, enhancing the overall comfort and refinement of the driving experience.
Ergonomics
Upper Dashboard Size
The upper dashboard of the 2009 Honda Civic is designed to provide an optimal balance between visibility and accessibility. It offers a clear view of the road ahead, allowing the driver to monitor traffic conditions effectively.
The placement of the windshield and side windows provides ample visibility, contributing to a confident and safe driving experience.
Driving Position
The Civic offers a well-thought-out driving position that ensures comfort and convenience for the driver. The seat and steering wheel adjustments allow for customization, enabling drivers of various heights to find their ideal driving position.
The ergonomics of the Civic’s seating position contribute to reduced fatigue and enhanced control during extended drives.
Controls and Instrumentation
The controls and instrumentation in the 2009 Honda Civic are intuitively placed and easy to operate. The instrument cluster features clear and legible gauges, providing essential information such as speed, fuel level, and engine RPM.
The audio and climate control buttons are logically arranged on the center stack, allowing for convenient access and adjustment while driving.
Visibility and Sightlines
The Civic offers good visibility from the driver’s seat, thanks to its large windows and well-positioned side mirrors. The rearview visibility is aided by a rear window and rearview mirrors that provide a clear view of the surroundings.
The Civic’s low beltline and slim pillars further enhance the overall visibility, allowing for confident lane changes and maneuvering.
Comfort and Seating
The 2009 Honda Civic provides comfortable seating for both the driver and passengers.
Safety Features and Iihs Safety Ratings
The 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a range of safety features to ensure the well-being of its occupants. Some of the notable safety features include:
- Dual front airbags and side curtain airbags.
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD).
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
- Daytime running lights.
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure.
In terms of safety ratings, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2009 Honda Civic with excellent ratings. It received the highest rating of “Good” in the moderate overlap front, side impact, and roof strength tests.
These safety ratings demonstrate the Civic’s commitment to providing a safe driving experience.
Warranty Coverage and Reliability
Honda offers a comprehensive warranty package for the 2009 Civic, providing reassurance and peace of mind to owners. The specific warranty coverage may vary depending on the region and dealership, but typically includes:.
- Basic Warranty: Covers the vehicle for a specified period or mileage, protecting against manufacturing defects and certain repairs.
- Powertrain Warranty: Offers coverage for the major components of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
- Corrosion Warranty: Protects against rust perforation of the body panels for a specified duration.
Honda is known for its reliability, and the Civic has a reputation for being a dependable and long-lasting vehicle. Regular maintenance and adherence to recommended service intervals can further enhance the reliability and longevity of the 2009 Honda Civic.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of a 2009 Honda Civic can vary depending on various factors, including maintenance, driving conditions, and individual usage.
With proper care and maintenance, a Honda Civic can typically last well over 100,000 miles and often reach 200,000 miles or more.
Honda’s reputation for reliability and build quality contributes to the long life expectancy of their vehicles.
Oil Type Used
The 2009 Honda Civic typically requires engine oil that meets the specifications outlined in the owner’s manual. The recommended oil type for this model is typically conventional or synthetic 5W-20 motor oil.
It’s important to refer to the owner’s manual or consult with a qualified mechanic to ensure the use of the correct oil type for optimal engine performance and longevity.
Problems
While the 2009 Honda Civic is generally considered a reliable vehicle, there have been some reported issues that owners may encounter. These can include:
- Transmission Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, such as rough shifting or premature failure. It is advisable to have the transmission regularly serviced and ensure proper maintenance to minimize the likelihood of transmission-related problems.
- Paint Quality: There have been occasional reports of paint peeling or chipping, particularly on certain color options. However, these cases appear to be isolated incidents and not widespread across all vehicles.
- Suspension Noise: Some owners have reported squeaks or rattles from the suspension components. These issues can often be resolved by inspecting and replacing worn-out bushings or dampers.
Other Honda Civic Models –
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