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What year did the Honda Civic get bigger?

The Honda Civic, one of the most popular compact cars in the world, has undergone several generations of redesigns and size changes over the years. The Civic has grown in size and dimensions at various points in its history, with the most significant increase happening in the mid-1990s.


The Civic's Growth in Size


The Honda Civic was first introduced in 1972 as a small, fuel-efficient compact car. Over the decades, the Civic has gradually increased in size to meet changing consumer demands and safety regulations. Some key milestones in the Civic's growth include:



  • 1972 - The original Civic was a subcompact car, measuring just over 150 inches in length.

  • 1979 - The second-generation Civic grew slightly larger, reaching around 160 inches in length.

  • 1988 - The fifth-generation Civic was the first to be classified as a compact car, measuring around 170 inches long.

  • 1996 - The sixth-generation Civic represented a major size increase, growing to around 175 inches in length.


The 1996 model year marked a significant turning point for the Honda Civic, as it transitioned from a subcompact to a more substantial compact car. This growth in size was driven by consumer preferences for larger, more spacious vehicles, as well as evolving safety standards that required more robust vehicle structures.


Reasons for the Civic's Expansion


There were several key factors that contributed to the Honda Civic's growth in size over the years:



  • Consumer Demand: As the Civic gained popularity, customers sought out a more spacious and comfortable vehicle, leading Honda to gradually increase the Civic's dimensions.

  • Safety Regulations: Stricter safety standards, such as those for crash protection, required larger and more robust vehicle structures, pushing the Civic to grow in size.li>
  • Market Positioning: Honda wanted to position the Civic as a more substantial and competitive compact car, rather than a subcompact, to better match consumer preferences and industry trends.


By the mid-1990s, the Honda Civic had transformed from a small, fuel-efficient subcompact into a larger, more versatile compact car that could better meet the needs and expectations of a wider range of customers.

Why is a Civic hatchback more expensive than a sedan?


Why is the Honda Civic Hatchback more expensive than the Honda Civic Sedan? The Honda Civic Hatchback typically has a slightly higher starting price than the Honda Civic Sedan because the hatchback design gives you significantly more cargo area.



At what mileage do Honda Civics start having problems?


It can last for over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. However, the average Honda Civic is rated for about 50-70 thousand miles before needing a major repair or replacement. This impressive lifespan makes it an excellent choice when considering purchasing one.



Has the Honda Civic gotten bigger?


It's all grown up now. The wheelbase is longer by 1.4 inches and the rear track is 0.5-inch wider. The new Civic is offered as both a sedan and a hatchback.



What does ex stand for in Honda?


EX – Extra Comfort and Technology
Taking a step up from the Sport, the Honda EX trim introduces an increased level of comfort and technology. Key features include a touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver assistance systems, and typically, more potent engines.



Is Civic EX or LX better?


Many local drivers will compare the 2022 Honda Civic LX vs. EX when in the market for a new sedan—and it's not hard to see why. The Civic LX is priced at ​​$22,550 MSRP*, and for just $3,000 more, buyers can bring home an EX model with a stronger engine, higher fuel economy, and many more standard features.



What year was a bad year for the Honda Civic?


Specific Honda Civic Years to Avoid
Through detailed research, specific years like 2001-2004, 2006-2009, and 2016 have been flagged. These models have issues that might lead to expensive fixes or safety worries. The 7th generation, covering 2001-2005, had its toughest times between 2001 and 2003.



What year Honda Civic gets stolen the most?


2000 Honda Civic
This designates it as the top stolen car in the country. One of the most popular cars in the country, there were more than 325,000 Honda Civic sold that year.



Which is higher Honda EX or LX?


While the EX is a higher-trim level than the LX, it still comes with cloth seats and a 7-inch touchscreen. However, more interior features make the EX worth the extra cost. With heated front seats and a power driver's seat, you get an even more comfortable ride (as long as you're the driver).



What is the best year model Honda Civic?


The golden years, if you will, for the Honda Civic appear to be the 2006 to 2009 models. It's like everything just clicked at the Honda factory during those years. These cars have consistently scored well in reliability studies, with few recurring issues or defects.



Is the Civic hatchback bigger than the Civic?


The Civic Hatchback is not necessarily bigger than the Civic Sedan. The Sedan is slightly longer by 4.9 inches with an approximate length of 184 inches. The Hatchback's 179.1-inch length is due to a rear overhang that extends beyond the back bumper. However, the Hatchback does have a wider body compared to the Sedan.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.