The 2012 Honda Civic holds a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts and daily commuters alike. As one of Honda’s most iconic and best-selling models, the Civic has a reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic sedan or prefer the sporty coupe variant, the 2012 Civic offers a range of trims and features to suit different preferences and needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key specifications, performance details, safety features, and interior amenities of the 2012 Honda Civic, providing you with all the essential information you need to know about this popular and enduring vehicle.
Key Specifications of the 2012 Honda Civic
- Engine Options: The 2012 Honda Civic is available with two engine options: a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 140 horsepower and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (Si trim) that delivers 201 horsepower.
- Transmission Options: The Civic offers a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2012 Civic is known for its excellent fuel efficiency, with the base model achieving an EPA-estimated 28 city/36 highway mpg with the automatic transmission and 28 city/36 highway mpg with the manual transmission.
- Body Styles: The Civic is offered in various body styles, including sedan, coupe, and hybrid.
- Safety Features: Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, and active front head restraints.
- Technology: The 2012 Civic includes features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a USB audio interface, and available navigation system.
The Good
- Reliability: The Honda Civic has long been praised for its dependability, and the 2012 model is no exception. It has a proven track record for longevity and minimal mechanical issues.
- Fuel Efficiency: With its efficient engines and aerodynamic design, the 2012 Civic delivers impressive fuel economy, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long trips.
- Comfortable Ride: The Civic offers a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. Its well-tuned suspension provides a balanced combination of comfort and handling.
- Interior Space: Despite its compact size, the Civic offers a surprisingly spacious interior with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The trunk also provides a generous amount of cargo space.
The Bad
- Interior Quality: While the Civic offers a functional and well-laid-out interior, some critics have noted that the materials used in the cabin could be of higher quality, with more hard plastics than desired.
- Road Noise: Some drivers have reported that the 2012 Civic tends to have higher levels of road and wind noise compared to its competitors, which can be noticeable during highway driving.
- Lack of Advanced Safety Features: While the Civic comes with standard safety features, it may lack some of the advanced driver-assistance systems found in newer models, such as blind-spot monitoring or adaptive cruise control.
Improvements Over Previous Models
Compared to its predecessors, the 2012 Honda Civic introduced several notable improvements:. . .
- Updated Exterior Design: The 2012 Civic received a refreshed exterior design with a more angular and aggressive front grille, new headlight and taillight designs, and a sleeker overall appearance.
- Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: Honda improved the fuel efficiency of the 2012 Civic compared to previous models, making it even more economical to drive.
- Revised Suspension and Steering: The suspension and steering systems were recalibrated to provide a more responsive and engaging driving experience.
- Upgraded Interior Technology: The 2012 Civic introduced new technological features such as Bluetooth connectivity and a USB audio interface as standard, allowing for seamless smartphone integration and music streaming.
- Improved Safety: The 2012 model received additional standard safety features, such as electronic stability control and active front head restraints, further enhancing occupant protection.
- Quieter Cabin: Honda made efforts to reduce interior noise levels in the 2012 Civic, resulting in a quieter and more refined driving experience compared to previous iterations.
The Trim Levels of the 2012 Honda Civic
List of Trim Levels with Key Specifications:
Honda Civic DX
The DX trim is the base model of the 2012 Honda Civic lineup. It comes equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower. The DX trim offers a choice between a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission.
Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a four-speaker sound system.
Honda Civic LX
The LX trim builds upon the features of the DX and adds more amenities. It includes keyless entry, cruise control, full power accessories, and a center console with storage.
The LX also features an expanded audio system with six speakers and an auxiliary audio input.
Honda Civic EX
The EX trim offers a higher level of comfort and convenience. It includes all the features of the LX and adds a power moonroof, alloy wheels, and an upgraded audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.
The EX also introduces Honda’s innovative i-MID (Intelligent Multi-Information Display) system, which provides vehicle information and customizable settings.
Honda Civic EX-L
The EX-L trim combines the features of the EX with added luxury and sophistication. It includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an available navigation system.
The EX-L trim provides an elevated level of comfort and style.
Honda Civic Si
The Si trim represents the sportier variant of the 2012 Civic lineup. It features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower, paired with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission.
The Si trim includes sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a limited-slip differential. Inside, it offers sport seats with red stitching and unique interior trim accents.
Honda Civic Hybrid
The Hybrid trim is designed for fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness. It combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for improved fuel economy.
The Hybrid model features automatic climate control, a six-speaker audio system, and a unique energy flow monitor to help drivers maximize efficiency.
Comparison Table of the 2012 Honda Civic Trim Levels
| Trim Level | Key Features |
|---|---|
| DX | 1.8L 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission |
| LX | Keyless entry, cruise control, full power accessories |
| EX | Power moonroof, alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity |
| EX-L | Leather upholstery, heated front seats, navigation |
| Si | 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, sport-tuned suspension |
| Hybrid | 1.5L 4-cylinder engine + electric motor, energy flow monitor |
Performance of the 2012 Honda Civic
Engine Size, Power, and Type
The 2012 Honda Civic comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine across most trim levels. This engine provides a good balance between power and fuel efficiency.
It delivers reliable performance for daily commuting and offers a smooth driving experience.
Horsepower (Hp)
The 1.8-liter engine in the 2012 Honda Civic produces 140 horsepower. While this may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it provides sufficient power for most driving scenarios.
The Civic’s horsepower rating is competitive and allows for decent acceleration and highway merging capabilities.
Torque
The torque output of the 1.8-liter engine is around 128 lb-ft. Torque is important for low-end power and the ability to accelerate from a standstill or during overtaking maneuvers.
The Civic’s torque is adequate for everyday driving needs and contributes to its overall performance.
Transmission Options
The 2012 Honda Civic offers two transmission options: a five-speed manual transmission and a five-speed automatic transmission. The choice of transmission can impact the car’s performance and driving experience.
The manual transmission provides more control and engagement for those who enjoy shifting gears, while the automatic transmission offers smooth and effortless operation.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2012 Honda Civic is known for its impressive fuel efficiency. It achieves excellent mileage, especially in its hybrid variant.
The non-hybrid models of the Civic deliver competitive fuel economy figures, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance driving.
Suspension and Handling
The suspension system of the 2012 Honda Civic is designed to offer a balance between comfort and agility. It features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which provide a smooth and composed ride.
The Civic’s handling is responsive, and it maintains good stability during cornering, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Braking System
The braking system of the 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes for most trim levels. However, higher trim levels and the Si model come with four-wheel disc brakes, which offer improved stopping power and better brake modulation.
The braking system provides confident and reliable stopping performance.
Additional Performance Measuring Factors
Some additional performance measuring factors for the 2012 Honda Civic include:. .
- Acceleration: The Civic’s acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 9 seconds, which is respectable for a compact car in its class.
- Handling Stability: The Civic’s well-tuned suspension, along with its responsive steering, contributes to its stability and agility on the road.
Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH) Levels: The Civic is designed to provide a quiet and comfortable ride, minimizing noise and vibrations for a pleasant driving experience.
Off-road Ability Depends on Several Factors, Including
Four-wheel Drive
The 2012 Honda Civic does not come with four-wheel drive (4WD). It is a front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicle, which means it distributes power to the front wheels only.
While this setup is suitable for regular road use, it may not provide the same level of off-road capability as vehicles equipped with 4WD or all-wheel drive (AWD) systems.
Ground Clearance
The ground clearance of the 2012 Honda Civic is approximately 6 inches (varies slightly depending on the trim level). This ground clearance is more suitable for navigating paved roads and mild off-road conditions, such as gravel or dirt paths.
However, it may not be ideal for tackling rough terrains or significant obstacles commonly encountered in serious off-road adventures.
Traction System
The Civic comes with a standard traction control system, which helps optimize traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces.
While this system enhances the vehicle’s handling in various road conditions, it is primarily designed for on-road use and may not provide the same level of traction as specialized off-road systems found in dedicated off-road vehicles.
Towing Capacity
The 2012 Honda Civic offers a diverse range of models and specifications to cater to different preferences.
The VTi-L and VTi-S variants come with a 1.8L engine running on premium unleaded petrol, paired with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, providing a braked capacity of 800kg.
The Si model, available with a 1.8L unleaded petrol engine and a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission, offers a higher braked capacity of 1400kg. The Type R, known for its sporty performance, features a 2.0L engine with premium unleaded petrol and a 6-speed manual transmission.
On the other hand, the hybrid version utilizes a 1.3L unleaded petrol/electric engine with a continuous variable transmission, while the Sport variant offers a 2.0L unleaded petrol engine with a choice of 5-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, both with a braked capacity of 800kg.
| Model | Engine | Transmission | Braked Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| VTi-L | 1.8L, Premium Unleaded | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg |
| VTi-S | 1.8L, Premium Unleaded | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg |
| Si | 1.8L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 1400kg |
| Type R | 2.0L, Premium Unleaded | 6 SPEED MANUAL | 0kg |
| VTi-L | 1.8L, Premium Unleaded | 6 SPEED MANUAL | 800kg |
| VTi-S | 1.8L, Premium Unleaded | 6 SPEED MANUAL | 1400kg |
| Si | 1.8L, Unleaded | 6 SPEED MANUAL | 1400kg |
| Hybrid | 1.3L, Unleaded Petrol/Electric | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 0kg |
| Sport | 2.0L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg |
| VTi | 1.8L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg |
| VTi-L | 1.8L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg |
| VTi-LN | 1.8L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC | 800kg |
| Sport | 2.0L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 800kg |
| VTi | 1.8L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 1200kg |
| VTi-L | 1.8L, Unleaded | 5 SPEED MANUAL | 1200kg |
Cargo Space and Storage
The 2012 Honda Civic offers a reasonable amount of cargo space for its class. The sedan model provides a trunk volume of approximately 12-13 cubic feet, which can accommodate luggage, groceries, or other everyday items.
While this space is sufficient for regular usage, it may be limited when it comes to carrying larger off-road equipment or gear required for extensive off-road excursions.
Additional Considerations
When evaluating the off-road capabilities of the 2012 Honda Civic, it’s important to note that it is primarily designed as a compact car focused on urban and suburban driving.
While it can handle mild off-road conditions and unpaved roads to a certain extent, it is not intended for rugged off-roading or challenging terrains.
It is advisable to assess your specific off-road needs and consider alternative vehicles or modifications if extensive off-road capabilities are a priority.
Exterior and Styling of the 2012 Honda Civic
The 2012 Honda Civic features a sleek and contemporary exterior design. With its aerodynamic profile, bold lines, and distinctive front grille, the Civic exudes a sense of modernity and sophistication.
The car’s exterior is characterized by its streamlined shape, sculpted body panels, and well-integrated headlights and taillights. Overall, the 2012 Civic presents a stylish and attractive appearance that stands out in its segment.
Interior Design and Aesthetics
Inside the 2012 Honda Civic, you’ll find a well-designed and ergonomically laid-out cabin. The interior boasts a clean and uncluttered look, with high-quality materials and refined finishes throughout.
The Civic offers a comfortable seating arrangement, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard and control layout are intuitive, placing essential functions within easy reach of the driver.
Overall, the interior design of the 2012 Civic emphasizes a modern and functional aesthetic.
Smooth Driving Experience
The 2012 Honda Civic delivers a smooth driving experience, which is comparable to other car models in its segment. The suspension system effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even over uneven surfaces.
The Civic’s chassis is well-tuned, striking a balance between comfort and agility. Whether you’re driving on city streets or cruising on the highway, the Civic maintains composure and delivers a composed and refined ride quality.
Ergonomics
Upper Dashboard Size
The upper dashboard of the 2012 Honda Civic is adequately sized, providing clear visibility and easy access to important information such as speed, fuel level, and navigation directions.
The instrument cluster and central display are positioned within the driver’s line of sight, ensuring convenient and efficient monitoring while driving.
Driving Position
The Civic offers a comfortable and adjustable driving position. The seats are supportive and offer a good range of adjustment, allowing drivers of different sizes to find a suitable position.
The placement of the steering wheel and pedals is ergonomic, enabling a natural and relaxed driving posture.
Controls and Instrumentation
The controls and instrumentation in the 2012 Civic are well-designed and user-friendly. The placement of essential controls, such as the audio system, climate control, and infotainment interface, is intuitive and within easy reach.
The instrument cluster features clear and legible gauges, providing relevant information at a glance.
Visibility and Sightlines
The Civic provides good visibility from the driver’s seat. The large windows and thin pillars contribute to an expansive field of vision, minimizing blind spots and enhancing overall safety.
Additionally, the inclusion of features like rearview cameras and parking sensors (available on certain trim levels) further aids in maneuvering and parking.
Comfort and Seating
Comfort is prioritized in the 2012 Honda Civic, with well-cushioned seats and sufficient space for occupants. The front seats offer adequate support and padding, making long drives more enjoyable.
In the rear, passengers benefit from ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable experience for all occupants.
Additional Considerations
In terms of ergonomics, the 2012 Honda Civic is designed to provide a user-friendly and comfortable driving environment.
It incorporates thoughtful features such as convenient storage compartments, well-placed cup holders, and user-friendly controls, enhancing overall usability and convenience.
Safety Features and Iihs Safety Ratings
The 2012 Honda Civic comes equipped with a range of safety features designed to provide peace of mind on the road.
Standard safety features include advanced front airbags, side curtain airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), vehicle stability assist (VSA) with traction control, and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
These features contribute to the overall safety of the vehicle and help protect occupants in the event of a collision.
In terms of safety ratings, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2012 Honda Civic with the highest rating of “Good” in moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength crash tests.
It also received a rating of “Good” for its head restraints and seats. These ratings indicate that the 2012 Civic performs well in terms of crashworthiness and occupant protection.
Warranty Coverage and Reliability
Honda offers a comprehensive warranty package for the 2012 Civic to provide peace of mind to owners. The new vehicle limited warranty covers the vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Additionally, the powertrain warranty extends for 5 years or 60,000 miles, and corrosion coverage is provided for 5 years with no mileage limitation.
In terms of reliability, Honda has a strong reputation for producing reliable vehicles, and the Civic is no exception.
The 2012 Civic has been known to be a dependable and durable car, with many owners reporting minimal issues or mechanical problems over the course of ownership.
Regular maintenance and adhering to the recommended service schedule can contribute to the long-term reliability of the vehicle.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of a 2012 Honda Civic can vary depending on various factors, including maintenance, driving habits, and environmental conditions.
On average, a well-maintained Honda Civic can last for around 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. With regular maintenance, timely repairs, and proper care, the 2012 Civic has the potential to serve its owners for many years.
Oil Type Used
The 2012 Honda Civic typically uses conventional or synthetic 5W-20 engine oil. However, it’s important to refer to the owner’s manual or consult with a qualified technician for the exact oil type and viscosity recommended for your specific model.
Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil changes and using the recommended oil type can help maintain the performance and longevity of the engine.
Problems
Like any vehicle, the 2012 Honda Civic may experience certain issues or problems over time. It’s worth noting that the severity and occurrence of problems can vary among individual cars.
Some common issues reported by owners of the 2012 Civic include potential engine block cracking (specifically in the 1.8-liter engine), concerns with the air conditioning system, and occasional electrical issues.
However, it’s important to highlight that not all vehicles will experience these problems, and Honda has taken steps to address and rectify any known issues through recalls or service bulletins.
It’s advisable to stay updated with the latest recalls and follow the recommended maintenance schedule to mitigate potential problems and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
Regular inspections and timely repairs by qualified technicians can help address any issues promptly and maintain the overall reliability of the 2012 Honda Civic.
Other Honda Civic Models –
Leave a Reply