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The Honda Civic is one of the best selling cars in the United States. This is not only due to the price but also because it has a diverse selection of models to choose from. The most popular model is the hatchback which most people are accustomed to, but it also comes in a four-door sedan and a two door coupe. The Civic was redesigned in 2001 as Honda looked to increase the already strong sales of its most reliable model.

The 2003 Civic comes in the aforementioned 3 versions and the coupe and sedans range from the DX, LX and EX. The DX and LX have a 115 horsepower 1.7 liter four cylinder engine, while the EX is powered by a 127-horsepower 1.7 liter engine but also has the VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Electronic Control) system, giving it an extra boost in power. A five-speed manual transmission comes as standard but a four-speed automatic is available for all models if desired.

The hatchbacks have their own specifications; the Civic Si has a 160 horsepower 2.0-liter i-VTEX engine and is only available with a five-speed manual transmission. This model is also the most costly of the three versions. And still there are specialty Civics available. There is the Coupe HC, which offers an fantastic 44 MPG, a 117 horsepower lean burn engine which is teamed with a five-speed manual transmission. In addition, there is also a Civic hybrid for the environmentally conscious, which reaches 50 MPG.

For a compact car the inside is noticeably roomy, partially because of the compact engine bay, at least in the front seats. The extra space lends itself to a feeling of openness, easy entrance and exit from the car and excellent visibility, which is also assisted by a low hood line. The downside is the backseat accommodation, which is not nearly as comfortable as the front seating. Although they allow for more legroom than before the revamp in 2001, it isn't very comfortable on long rides.

On the road, the Civic handles itself well, although not quite as quiet as one would like it to be but at the same time, it is not the loudest compact in the marketplace. As previously stated, it is excellent with gas and the different models each offer their own pluses especially the EX and Si. The EX's acceleration is top notch, throttle response is excellent and shifting is seamless. And the Si is the most fun to drive around town. With its size and engine, it can whip around corners and responds very well. In fact, it probably performs at a higher level than any of the Civic models.

For the most part, the 2003 Civic is a conservative looking car that offers contemporary polish. And then there is the hatchback, which creates opinions on both sides of the fence. Some think it's a cute design that stands out on the road and others simply think the car is unattractive, perhaps even ugly. But no one can deny that this is certainly a reliable automobile, no matter which model they choose.

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