The 2020 Honda Civic is a popular and highly regarded compact car that offers a blend of style, performance, and advanced features.
Known for its reliability and practicality, the Civic has been a favorite choice among car enthusiasts and daily commuters alike.
With a range of trims and engine options, including the LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring, the Civic caters to a diverse range of preferences and needs.
Whether you’re looking for fuel efficiency, sporty performance, or a comfortable ride, the Civic has something to offer.
We will explore the key specifications and features of the 2020 Honda Civic, providing you with all the information you need to know before making a decision.
Key Specifications of the 2020 Honda Civic
- Engine Type: In-Line 4-Cylinder
- Displacement: 1996 cc
- Horsepower (SAE net): 158-174 @ 6000-6500 rpm
- Torque (SAE net): 138-162 lb-ft @ 4200-5500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Fuel Injection: Multi-Point or Direct Injection
- Suspension: MacPherson Strut Front Suspension, Multi-Link Rear Suspension
- Steering: Variable Ratio Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS)
- Brakes: Power-Assisted Ventilated Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes
- Dimensions: Wheelbase – 106.3 in, Length – 182.7 in, Height – 55.7 in, Width – 70.9 in
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Fuel Efficiency (City/Highway/Combined): 25-32/36-42/29-36 mpg (depending on the trim and transmission)
The Good About the 2020 Honda Civic
- Reliability: The Honda Civic has a long-standing reputation for its reliability, making it a dependable choice for daily commuting and long-term ownership.
- Fuel Efficiency: With its efficient engine options and advanced technologies, the Civic delivers impressive fuel economy, helping you save on gas expenses.
- Comfortable Ride: The Civic offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and spacious interior that provides ample legroom and headroom.
- Advanced Safety Features: The 2020 Civic comes equipped with a Honda Sensing® safety suite, including features like Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Collision Mitigation Braking System, among others, to enhance driver and passenger safety.
- Tech-Friendly: The Civic boasts modern technology features such as a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, Bluetooth® connectivity, and available HondaLink® for seamless smartphone integration and entertainment options.
The Bad About the 2020 Honda Civic
- Limited Cargo Space: While the Civic offers a comfortable cabin for passengers, its trunk space is slightly smaller compared to some rivals in the compact car segment.
- Lack of Engine Options: While the available engine options offer a good balance of power and efficiency, some competitors offer a wider range of engine choices for those seeking more performance options.
Improvements Over Previous Models
The 2020 Honda Civic brings several notable improvements compared to its previous models:. . .
- Refreshed Exterior Styling: The 2020 Civic received updated styling elements, including a redesigned front grille, new headlights, and revised rear styling, giving it a more modern and aggressive appearance.
- Expanded Honda Sensing® Suite: The Honda Sensing® suite of advanced safety features became standard on all 2020 Civic trims, offering a comprehensive package of driver-assist technologies.
- Enhanced Infotainment System: The 2020 model introduced an improved infotainment system with a larger available touchscreen display and added features like Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, providing seamless smartphone connectivity.
- Sport Trim: The Sport Trim was introduced for the 2020 Civic, offering sportier design cues, larger wheels, and enhanced performance features for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
- Increased Sound Insulation: Honda improved the cabin insulation in the 2020 Civic, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable ride by reducing road and wind noise.
The Trim Levels of the 2020 Honda Civic
The 2020 Honda Civic is available in multiple trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and specifications to cater to different preferences and needs.
Here are the main trim levels of the 2020 Honda Civic:
LX
The LX trim serves as the base model, offering a solid foundation of features and value. It comes equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque.
The LX trim offers standard features such as a 5-inch color LCD screen, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink, streaming audio, a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines, and a Honda Sensing suite of safety features.
Sport
The Sport trim adds a more athletic touch to the Civic lineup. It features a sporty exterior styling with 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a center outlet exhaust.
Under the hood, it shares the same 2.0-liter engine as the LX trim. The Sport trim also offers a 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, smart entry with walk-away auto lock, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
EX
Stepping up to the EX trim, you’ll find additional comfort and convenience features. It comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, delivering 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
The EX trim includes a one-touch power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, remote engine start, and Honda LaneWatch™ blind spot display.
EX-L
The EX-L trim adds a touch of luxury to the Civic lineup. It includes leather-trimmed seats, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror, a HomeLink® remote system, and an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition and Honda HD Digital Traffic.
Touring
Sitting at the top of the Civic range, the Touring trim offers the most premium features and performance.
It comes with all the features of the EX-L trim and adds LED headlights with auto-on/off, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a 450-watt premium audio system with 10 speakers, and a Honda Sensing suite with additional features like adaptive cruise control and a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System.
Comparison Table of the 2020 Honda Civic Trim Levels
| Trim Level | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 2.0L Inline-4 | 158 | 138 lb-ft | 5-inch color LCD screen, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Honda Sensing® suite |
| Sport | 2.0L Inline-4 | 158 | 138 lb-ft | 18-inch alloy wheels, 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen, fog lights |
| EX | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 | 174 | 162 lb-ft | One-touch power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, Honda LaneWatch™ |
| EX-L | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 | 174 | 162 lb-ft | Leather-trimmed seats, automatic-dimming rearview mirror, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ |
| Touring | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 | 174 | 162 lb-ft | LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, 450-watt premium audio system, adaptive cruise control |
Performance of the 2020 Honda Civic
Engine Size, Power, and Type
The 2020 Honda Civic offers two engine options. The LX and Sport trims come with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, while the EX, EX-L, and Touring trims feature a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine.
These engines provide a balance between power and fuel efficiency.
Horsepower (HP)
The horsepower output of the 2020 Honda Civic varies depending on the engine and trim level. The 2.0-liter engine produces 158 horsepower, while the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine generates 174 horsepower.
The Civic’s horsepower ratings are competitive for its class, providing sufficient power for both daily commuting and spirited driving.
Torque
The 2020 Honda Civic delivers impressive torque figures for its engine options. The 2.0-liter engine produces 138 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides 162 lb-ft of torque.
The torque output of the turbocharged engine allows for strong acceleration and responsive performance.
Transmission Options
The 2020 Honda Civic offers two transmission options. The LX and Sport trims are available with a 6-speed manual transmission (6MT) or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
The EX, EX-L, and Touring trims come standard with the CVT. The choice of transmission can impact the driving experience, with the manual transmission providing more engagement and control, while the CVT offers smooth and efficient performance.
Fuel Efficiency
The Honda Civic is known for its impressive fuel efficiency. The exact fuel efficiency can vary depending on the engine, transmission, and trim level.
The Civic achieves fuel economy ratings ranging from 25-32 mpg in the city, 36-42 mpg on the highway, and 29-36 mpg combined. These figures make the Civic an economical choice, helping drivers save on fuel costs.
Suspension and Handling
The 2020 Honda Civic features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This suspension setup, combined with precise electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, provides a balanced and composed ride.
The Civic offers agile handling, responsive steering, and good overall stability, making it enjoyable to drive both in urban environments and on winding roads.
Braking System
The Honda Civic is equipped with power-assisted ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. The braking system offers reliable stopping power and consistent performance.
The Civic also incorporates advanced safety features such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), and brake assist to enhance overall braking performance and driver control.
Additional Performance Measuring Factors
- Acceleration: The 2020 Honda Civic delivers decent acceleration, allowing for quick merging and passing maneuvers on highways.
- Redline: The Civic’s engines have a redline at around 6500-6700 rpm, indicating their maximum rotational speed.
- Handling Dynamics: The Civic’s well-tuned chassis and suspension contribute to its nimble handling characteristics, providing stability and confidence in cornering.
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: The power-to-weight ratio of the Civic, which considers its horsepower in relation to its curb weight, influences its overall performance and responsiveness.
Off-road Ability Depends on Several Factors, Including
Four-wheel Drive
The Honda Civic does not come standard with four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). It is primarily a front-wheel-drive vehicle, which limits its off-road capabilities compared to vehicles equipped with 4WD or AWD systems.
However, it’s important to note that the Civic’s front-wheel-drive configuration offers good traction for most everyday driving scenarios.
Ground Clearance
The ground clearance of the 2020 Honda Civic varies depending on the trim level and body style. According to various sources, the ground clearance of the 2020 Honda Civic is:
- 6.7 inches (170 mm) for the EX, EX-L, and LX trims
- 5.3 inches (134 mm) for the RS and Hatchback trims
- 5.2 inches (132 mm) for the Type R and Sedan trims
The ground clearance of the 2020 Honda Civic is comparable to other cars in its class, such as the Toyota Corolla (5.1 inches) and the Mazda 3 (5.5 inches). The ground clearance of the 2020 Honda Civic is designed to provide a smooth ride and good handling, while also avoiding damage from bumps and potholes on the road.
Traction System
The Honda Civic is equipped with traction control and stability control systems as part of its standard safety features. These systems help optimize traction and stability on various road surfaces, including some mild off-road conditions.
However, they are not specifically designed for demanding off-road situations.
Towing Capacity
The 2020 Honda Civic offers a consistent braked towing capacity across its various models. Whether you choose the Hatchback or Sedan body type, all trims come with an 800kg braked towing capacity except for the Type R variant.
The Hatchback lineup includes models like +luxe Limited Edition, 50 Years Edition, RS, VTi, VTi-L, VTi-LX, and VTi-S, all equipped with either a 1.8L or 1.5L unleaded petrol engine and a speed continuously variable transmission.
However, it’s important to note that the Type R variant, with its powerful 2.0L premium unleaded petrol engine and 6-speed manual transmission, does not have a recommended braked towing capacity.
| Body Type | Model | Engine | Transmission | Braked Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchback | +luxe Limited Edition | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Hatchback | 50 Years Edition | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Hatchback | RS | 1.5L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Hatchback | VTi | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Hatchback | VTi-L | 1.5L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Hatchback | VTi-LX | 1.5L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Hatchback | VTi-S | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Hatchback | Type R | 2.0L, Premium Unleaded Petrol | 6 SPEED MANUAL | 0kg |
| Sedan | 50 Years Edition | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Sedan | RS | 1.5L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Sedan | VTi | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Sedan | VTi-L | 1.5L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Sedan | VTi-LX | 1.5L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
| Sedan | VTi-S | 1.8L, Unleaded Petrol | SPEED CONTINUOUS VARIABLE | 800kg |
Cargo Space and Storage
The Honda Civic offers a decent amount of cargo space for a compact car. The trunk volume ranges from approximately 14.7 to 15.1 cubic feet, providing ample room for everyday items, groceries, or smaller adventure gear.
While this cargo space may be sufficient for light off-road equipment, larger or bulkier items may require additional storage solutions.
Other Considerations
It’s important to recognize that the Honda Civic is primarily designed for on-road performance, fuel efficiency, and urban versatility.
While it may handle occasional light off-road excursions on well-maintained dirt or gravel roads, it is not intended for intense off-road adventures or challenging off-road conditions.
For more substantial off-road capabilities, other vehicle models, such as SUVs or trucks, with dedicated 4WD or AWD systems, higher ground clearance, and specialized off-road features, would be more suitable choices.
Exterior and Styling of the 2020 Honda Civic
The 2020 Honda Civic showcases a sleek and modern exterior design that exudes a sense of sportiness and sophistication. Its aerodynamic profile, sharp body lines, and bold front grille contribute to its eye-catching appearance.
The Civic offers a range of exterior features, including LED headlights, LED taillights, and available fog lights. Depending on the trim level, it may feature stylish accents such as chrome door handles or gloss black inserts on the alloy wheels.
Overall, the Honda Civic presents a stylish and contemporary exterior that stands out in its segment.
Interior Design and Aesthetics
Step inside the 2020 Honda Civic, and you’ll find a thoughtfully designed interior that blends comfort, functionality, and modern aesthetics. The cabin offers a clean and uncluttered layout with high-quality materials and attention to detail.
Depending on the trim level, you may find features like leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and contrasting stitching. The Civic provides an inviting and well-appointed interior that enhances the overall driving experience.
Smoothness of Drive
The Honda Civic is widely recognized for its smooth and refined driving dynamics. Its suspension system, which consists of a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, contributes to a balanced and comfortable ride.
The Civic’s chassis tuning and sound insulation help minimize road noise and vibrations, creating a serene cabin environment. In comparison to other car models in its segment, the Civic often stands out for its refined and composed driving experience.
Ergonomics
Upper Dashboard Size
The upper dashboard of the Honda Civic is designed to provide an optimal balance between visibility and minimizing distractions.
It features a well-placed instrument cluster and a center display, ensuring essential information is easily accessible to the driver without obstructing the view of the road.
Driving Position
The Civic offers a comfortable and adjustable driving position to accommodate various driver preferences. The seats are supportive and provide adequate lumbar support, allowing for extended periods of comfortable driving.
The availability of a power-adjustable driver’s seat in higher trim levels further enhances the ergonomic experience.
Controls and Instrumentation
The controls and instrumentation in the Honda Civic are intuitively placed and easy to operate. The layout of buttons, knobs, and switches is user-friendly, enabling quick access to various functions.
The instrument cluster provides clear and legible information, including vehicle speed, fuel levels, and other relevant driving data.
Visibility and Sightlines
The Civic is designed to provide good visibility and sightlines for the driver. The windshield and side windows offer ample forward and lateral visibility.
Additionally, the Civic incorporates features such as a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines to assist with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Comfort and Seating
Comfort is prioritized in the Honda Civic, with well-cushioned seats and sufficient legroom and headroom for occupants. The rear seats offer a 60/40 split-folding functionality, providing versatility for accommodating passengers and cargo.
The availability of features like heated front seats and leather-trimmed seating surfaces in higher trim levels adds to the overall comfort level.
Additional Ergonomics Considerations
The Civic boasts other ergonomic features, such as well-placed storage compartments for personal items and cupholders for convenience during travel.
The inclusion of features like automatic climate control, steering wheel-mounted controls, and available smartphone integration enhances the overall ergonomics and ease of use within the cabin.
Safety Features and Iihs Safety Ratings
The 2020 Honda Civic comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to provide peace of mind for both the driver and passengers.
Standard safety features include
- advanced front airbags
- SmartVent front side airbags
- side curtain airbags with rollover sensor
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control
- anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines.
Additionally, Honda Sensing is available or standard on higher trim levels, which includes features like
- forward collision warning
- lane departure warning
- collision mitigation braking system
- and road departure mitigation system
In terms of safety ratings, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded the 2020 Honda Civic with top ratings.
It has received the highest rating of “Good” in several categories, including moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints and seats.
The Civic has also received a rating of “Superior” for front crash prevention when equipped with Honda Sensing.
Warranty Coverage and Reliability
Honda provides a comprehensive warranty package for the 2020 Civic, ensuring coverage for various components of the vehicle. The basic limited warranty covers the vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
The powertrain warranty extends to 5 years or 60,000 miles. Additionally, Honda offers limited warranties for specific components like corrosion coverage and emissions performance.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of a Honda Civic can vary based on several factors, including maintenance, driving conditions, and individual usage. With proper care and regular maintenance, the Honda Civic has the potential to provide many years of reliable service.
Many owners report driving their Civics for well over 100,000 miles and even beyond with few major issues.
It’s worth noting that routine maintenance, such as oil changes, fluid checks, and scheduled inspections, is crucial to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of any vehicle.
Oil Type Used
The recommended oil type for the 2020 Honda Civic varies depending on the engine variant. For the 1.5L turbocharged engine, Honda recommends using synthetic 0W-20 oil.
The 2.0L naturally aspirated engine typically requires a conventional or synthetic blend of 5W-20 oil. It’s essential to consult the owner’s manual or contact a certified Honda service center to determine the appropriate oil type and viscosity for your specific Civic model.
Problems
As with any vehicle, the Honda Civic may experience certain issues or problems, although they are typically minor and infrequent.
Some reported issues with previous model years of the Civic to include occasional transmission-related concerns, such as shifting or slipping issues in some older models.
However, it’s important to note that Honda continuously improves and refines its vehicles, addressing any reported problems through recalls or updates.
Overall, the Honda Civic has a solid reputation for reliability, and any potential problems are generally isolated incidents rather than widespread issues.
It’s advisable to stay up-to-date with maintenance schedules, address any warning signs promptly, and follow Honda’s recommended service guidelines to minimize the likelihood of encountering problems and to ensure a trouble-free ownership experience.
Other Honda Civic Models –
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