The 2010 Honda Civic remains one of the most popular and well-regarded vehicles in its class. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, the Civic has been a favorite choice among car buyers for many years.
Whether you’re considering buying a used 2010 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 engine specifications to safety features, exterior design to interior comfort, and everything in between, we’ll delve into the key details that make the 2010 Honda Civic a standout option in the compact car segment.
So, let’s explore the features, performance, and capabilities of the 2010 Honda Civic to help you make an informed decision or satisfy your curiosity about this enduring automotive favorite.
Key Specifications of the 2010 Honda Civic
- Engine Options: The 2010 Honda Civic comes with two engine options: a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine producing 140 horsepower and a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine generating 197 horsepower (exclusive to the sportier Si trim).
- Transmission: It is available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Civic delivers impressive fuel efficiency, with an average of 26-34 MPG in city/highway driving, depending on the engine and transmission combination.
- Seating Capacity: The Civic can accommodate up to five passengers.
- Cargo Space: It offers a generous trunk space of 12.0 cubic feet.
The Good
- Reliability: The 2010 Honda Civic is renowned for its outstanding reliability, making it a dependable choice for daily commuting and long-term ownership.
- Fuel Efficiency: With its efficient engine options, the Civic provides excellent fuel economy, helping to save on fuel costs and reduce environmental impact.
- Safety: The Civic earned top safety ratings in its class, thanks to its robust construction, advanced safety features, and comprehensive set of airbags.
- Handling and Ride Quality: The Civic delivers a comfortable and composed ride, along with nimble handling and responsive steering, making it enjoyable to drive in various road conditions.
- Versatility: The Civic offers versatile seating and cargo options, ensuring ample space for passengers and their belongings.
The Bad
- Limited Engine Choices: While the 2010 Civic offers a decent range of engine options, some competitors in the same segment provide more powerful or fuel-efficient alternatives.
- Interior Quality: Although the Civic’s cabin is functional and well-designed, some critics have noted that the materials used in the interior can feel somewhat cheap or lack the premium feel found in some rivals.
Improvements Over Previous Models
- Revised Exterior Styling: The 2010 Honda Civic received subtle updates to its exterior design, including a refreshed front grille, headlights, and taillights, giving it a more modern and streamlined appearance compared to its predecessors.
- Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: The 2010 Civic introduced improved aerodynamics and engine enhancements to optimize fuel efficiency, resulting in even better gas mileage compared to earlier models.
- Upgraded Interior Features: Honda added several new features to the 2010 Civic, such as available Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio interface, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls, enhancing convenience and connectivity for the occupants.
- Refined Suspension: The suspension system was fine-tuned in the 2010 Civic, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride, while still maintaining the car’s sporty handling characteristics.
- Advanced Safety Technology: The 2010 Civic received upgrades in safety technology, including the addition of stability control as a standard feature on all trims, further enhancing the vehicle’s safety credentials compared to previous models.
The Trim Levels of the 2010 Honda Civic
List of Trim Levels with Key Specifications:
Honda Civic DX
- Engine: 1.8-liter inline-4. . .
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. . .
- Features: Air conditioning, power windows, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, four-speaker sound system, auxiliary audio jack, and 15-inch steel wheels.
Honda Civic LX
- Engine: 1.8-liter inline-4.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.
- Features (in addition to DX trim): Keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, center console with sliding armrest, and audio system with CD player and four speakers.
Honda Civic EX
- Engine: 1.8-liter inline-4.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.
- Features (in addition to LX trim): Power moonroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, premium audio system with six speakers, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, USB audio interface, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Honda Civic EX-L
- Engine: 1.8-liter inline-4.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.
- Features (in addition to EX trim): Leather upholstery, heated front seats, and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Honda Civic Si
- Engine: 2.0-liter inline-4.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual.
- Features (in addition to EX trim): Sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, sport seats, aluminum shift knob, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Honda Civic GX
- Engine: 1.8-liter natural gas-powered inline-4.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Features (in addition to DX trim): Compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system, 15-inch steel wheels, and available navigation system.
Comparison Table of the 2010 Honda Civic Trim Levels
| Trim Level | 2010 Honda Civic Key Features | 2008 Honda Civic Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| DX | Air conditioning, power windows, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, four-speaker sound system, auxiliary audio jack, 15-inch steel wheels. | Air conditioning, power windows, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, four-speaker sound system, auxiliary audio jack, 15-inch steel wheels. |
| LX | Keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, center console with sliding armrest, audio system with CD player and four speakers. | Keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, center console with sliding armrest, audio system with CD player and four speakers. |
| EX | Power moonroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, premium audio system with six speakers, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, USB audio interface, Bluetooth connectivity. | Power moonroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, premium audio system with six speakers, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, auxiliary audio jack. |
| EX-L | Leather upholstery, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel. | Leather upholstery, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel. |
| Si | Sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, sport seats, aluminum shift knob, 17-inch alloy wheels. | Sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, sport seats, aluminum shift knob, 17-inch alloy wheels. |
| GX | Compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system, available navigation system. | Compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system, available navigation system. |
Performance of the 2010 Honda Civic
Engine Size, Power, and Type
The 2010 Honda Civic comes equipped with a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine. This engine size provides a balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for daily driving and city commuting.
Horsepower (Hp)
The 2010 Honda Civic produces around 140 horsepower. While this power output may not be the highest in its class, it is sufficient for most driving scenarios and offers a good blend of performance and fuel efficiency.
Torque
The torque produced by the 2010 Honda Civic is approximately 128 lb-ft. Torque is crucial for accelerating from a standstill and for passing maneuvers on the road.
The Civic’s torque level ensures decent acceleration and responsiveness during everyday driving.
Transmission Options
The 2010 Honda Civic offers two transmission options: a 5-speed manual transmission and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The choice between these transmissions can impact the car’s performance and driving experience.
The manual transmission provides more driver engagement and control, while the automatic transmission offers convenience and smoother shifts.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2010 Honda Civic is known for its commendable fuel efficiency. With its 1.8-liter engine and efficient design, it achieves good mileage in both city and highway driving conditions.
The exact fuel efficiency can vary depending on the trim level and driving habits, but it generally ranges from 25-36 MPG (miles per gallon).
Suspension and Handling
The Honda Civic is renowned for its well-balanced suspension and nimble handling characteristics. It features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which provide a comfortable ride quality and responsive handling.
The Civic’s suspension setup strikes a good balance between sportiness and everyday comfort, allowing for confident cornering and a smooth overall driving experience.
Braking System
The 2010 Honda Civic is equipped with a reliable braking system, including front disc brakes and rear drum brakes for most trim levels. Higher-performance models, such as the Si trim, may come with upgraded disc brakes for enhanced stopping power.
The braking system offers responsive and controlled braking performance, contributing to the overall safety of the vehicle.
Additional Performance Factors
- Acceleration: The Civic’s acceleration, measured by its 0-60 mph time, is around 9-10 seconds, varying slightly depending on the trim level and transmission chosen. While it may not be the quickest in its class, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving needs.
- Handling Stability: The Civic’s stability during maneuvers and at higher speeds is commendable, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and aerodynamic design. It maintains good stability and control, offering a confident driving experience.
- Steering Responsiveness: The Civic features responsive electric power steering, providing precise control and a good level of feedback from the road.
Off-road Ability Depends on Several Factors, Including
Off-road ability depends on several factors that contribute to a vehicle’s performance in off-road conditions. While the 2010 Honda Civic is primarily designed for on-road driving and is not specifically optimized for off-roading, let’s explore the relevant aspects.
Four-wheel Drive
The 2010 Honda Civic does not come with four-wheel drive (4WD) as a standard feature. It is primarily a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle. Four-wheel drive is typically beneficial for off-road driving, providing better traction and handling in challenging terrain.
However, the lack of 4WD in the Civic means it may have limitations when encountering rugged off-road conditions.
Ground Clearance
The ground clearance of the 2010 Honda Civic is around 6 inches (varies slightly depending on the trim level and optional features).
While this ground clearance is suitable for normal road conditions and light off-roading, it may pose limitations in more demanding off-road situations.
The Civic’s lower ground clearance is primarily designed to provide stability and maneuverability on paved roads rather than tackling rough terrain.
Traction System
The 2010 Honda Civic is equipped with a traction control system as a standard feature. This system helps optimize traction and stability on slippery surfaces by modulating engine power and braking force.
While it can provide some assistance in light off-road conditions, it is not specifically tailored for challenging off-road terrains.
Towing Capacity
The 2010 Honda Civic offers a range of models to suit different preferences and needs. For those seeking a sporty drive, the Si variant comes with a 1.8L engine and the option of a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, providing a braked capacity of 1400kg.
On the other hand, the Type R stands out as a high-performance option, featuring a powerful 2.0L engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, although its braked capacity is not specified.
The sedan lineup offers various choices, including the Hybrid model with a 1.3L petrol/electric engine and a continuous variable transmission, which unfortunately lacks braked capacity information.
For a balance of style and functionality, the sedan range includes the 40th Anniversary LE, Limited Edition, Sport, VTi, VTi LE, and VTi-L models, all equipped with a 1.8L engine, either a 5-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission, and a consistent braked capacity of 800kg.
| Model | Engine | 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 |
| Limited Edition | 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 LE | 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 |
| Limited Edition | 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 LE | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 1200kg |
| VTi-L | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 1200kg |
Cargo Space and Storage
The 2010 Honda Civic offers a decent amount of cargo space for a compact sedan. The trunk volume ranges from approximately 12 to 14 cubic feet (varies based on trim level and whether a spare tire is present).
While this cargo space is adequate for everyday needs and small items, it may not be specifically optimized for off-road equipment or larger gear typically associated with extensive off-roading.
Additional Considerations
It’s important to note that the 2010 Honda Civic’s off-road capabilities are limited due to its design focus on urban commuting and daily driving. While it can handle light off-road situations and gravel roads, it is not intended for rugged off-roading adventures.
Engaging in off-road activities beyond the vehicle’s intended capabilities may result in potential damage or compromised performance.
If you are looking for a vehicle with more robust off-road capabilities, Honda offers models such as the CR-V or Passport, which are better suited for off-roading adventures with features like higher ground clearance, all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, and off-road-specific driving modes.
Exterior and Styling of the 2010 Honda Civic
The 2010 Honda Civic boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that remains timeless even today. Its overall shape is characterized by clean lines and aerodynamic contours, giving it an athletic and dynamic appearance.
The Civic features a distinctive front grille, stylish headlights, and a sculpted hood, which contribute to its sporty and refined look.
Depending on the trim level, you may also find additional styling elements such as fog lights, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler that enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.
Interior Design and Aesthetics
Inside the 2010 Honda Civic, you’ll find a well-designed and functional cabin that prioritizes comfort and convenience. The interior features a contemporary layout with high-quality materials and attention to detail.
The Civic offers a driver-focused cockpit, with controls and displays placed ergonomically for easy access and usability. The cabin provides a pleasant and inviting ambiance, with comfortable seating and ample legroom for both front and rear passengers.
The choice of colors, textures, and finishes contributes to a modern and sophisticated interior atmosphere.
Driving Smoothness
The 2010 Honda Civic is known for its smooth and comfortable ride quality, making it a popular choice in its segment. It offers a well-tuned suspension system that effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and composed ride.
The Civic’s chassis and suspension work together to deliver balanced handling and responsive steering, allowing for confident maneuvering and a pleasant driving experience. Compared to other cars in its segment, the Civic excels in terms of ride comfort, refined handling, and overall driving smoothness.
Ergonomics
Upper Dashboard Size
The upper dashboard of the 2010 Honda Civic is thoughtfully designed to provide a good balance between visibility and functionality. It offers a clear view of the instrument cluster and important information without obstructing the driver’s line of sight.
The controls and displays are strategically positioned for easy reach and visibility, enhancing the overall ergonomics of the vehicle.
Driving Position
The driving position in the 2010 Honda Civic is well-planned and offers a comfortable and commanding view of the road ahead. The seats provide adequate support and adjustability, allowing drivers of various heights and sizes to find an optimal driving position.
The placement of the pedals, steering wheel, and gear shifter ensures a natural and intuitive driving experience.
Controls and Instrumentation
The controls and instrumentation in the 2010 Honda Civic are user-friendly and logically arranged. The dashboard features easily accessible knobs, buttons, and switches for various functions such as climate control, audio system, and vehicle settings.
The instrument cluster provides clear and concise information, allowing the driver to stay informed without distraction.
Visibility and Sightlines
The Civic offers good visibility thanks to its well-designed windows and low beltline. The windshield and side windows provide a wide field of view, enhancing the driver’s situational awareness. Additionally, the Civic’s slim roof pillars minimize blind spots, further improving visibility and overall safety.
Comfort and Seating
Comfort is a key aspect of the 2010 Honda Civic’s interior design. The seats are supportive and offer sufficient cushioning for long drives. Both the front and rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom, ensuring passenger comfort even on extended journeys.
The Civic’s cabin is designed to minimize road and wind noise, contributing to a quiet and serene environment.
Additional Considerations
In terms of ergonomics, the 2010 Honda Civic also incorporates thoughtful storage compartments and cup holders for convenience. The placement of these storage areas ensures that essential items are within easy reach and well-organized.
Overall, the Civic’s ergonomic design elements contribute to a comfortable and intuitive driving experience.
Safety Features and Iihs Safety Ratings
The 2010 Honda Civic comes equipped with a range of safety features to provide peace of mind for both the driver and passengers. Standard safety features include dual front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, antilock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
These features work together to enhance occupant protection and vehicle stability in various driving conditions.
In terms of safety ratings, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2010 Honda Civic with top ratings in several categories. It received a “Good” rating (the highest possible) in the frontal offset, side impact, and roof strength tests.
These ratings reflect the Civic’s ability to withstand and mitigate the impact of collisions, providing a high level of safety for occupants.
Warranty Coverage and Reliability
Honda offers a comprehensive warranty coverage for the 2010 Civic to provide assurance to owners. The standard warranty includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited mileage corrosion warranty.
This warranty coverage helps protect against unexpected repair costs during the initial years of ownership.
In terms of reliability, Honda has a strong reputation for building dependable vehicles, and the Civic is no exception. The 2010 Civic has been known to have a reliable track record, with many owners reporting minimal issues or mechanical problems over the years.
Regular maintenance and adherence to recommended service intervals can further contribute to the long-term reliability of the vehicle.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of a 2010 Honda Civic can vary depending on several factors, including maintenance, driving habits, and environmental conditions.
However, with proper care and maintenance, a well-maintained Honda Civic can often exceed 200,000 miles or more. Honda vehicles, including the Civic, are known for their longevity and durability, making them a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting and reliable vehicle.
Oil Type Used
The 2010 Honda Civic typically requires engine oil that meets the specifications outlined in the owner’s manual.
For most trims and engine options, Honda recommends using 5W-20 viscosity oil, which is commonly available at automotive stores or service centers.
It’s important to consult the owner’s manual or contact a certified Honda service center to ensure you are using the correct oil type for your specific Civic model.
Problems
While the 2010 Honda Civic has generally proven to be a reliable vehicle, like any car, it may experience some common issues over time. One common problem reported by owners is premature wear of the front brake pads and rotors, requiring replacement sooner than expected.
Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, such as inadequate cooling or compressor failure.
It’s worth noting that these problems may vary depending on individual driving conditions and maintenance practices.
Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and addressing any concerns promptly can help mitigate potential problems and ensure the longevity of your Honda Civic.
Other Honda Civic Models –
Leave a Reply