Continuing its streak as one of the best-selling small cars in America, the Honda Civic enters the 2002 model year with an eye towards enhanced performance and interior styling.
For 2002, both the sedan and coupe models feature refinements inside and out. The new Civic provides sportier handling and a more comfortable ride. All Civic trim levels are powered by 1.7-liter engines that are both powerful and fuel-efficient. Continuing for 2002, the Honda Civic will have an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) rating - making it the first car to be sold in all 50 states with a ULEV rating.
The 2002 Civic lineup includes both sedan and coupe body styles available in DX, LX and EX trim levels. Automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions are available in all trim levels. The Civic Coupe is available in a fuel-efficient Civic HX version, and the Civic GX Sedan will again be outfitted with a natural gas powered engine, heralded as the "cleanest internal combustion engine in the world."
The interior design of the 2002 Civic has also received several enhancements for the upcoming model year. Chrome accents now grace the door handles and the shift area panel features silver trim, giving the Civic's interior a more stylish, refined look. The dash features a new meter design, enhancing the Civic's sporty appearance.
A fuel filler holder has been added to all Civic trim levels for 2002. Additionally, a lid has been added to the front beverage holders on EX and LX models. The 2002 Civic EX features variable intermittent windshield wipers. The EX models are powered by a 127-horsepower VTEC engine that generates 114-lbs/ft of torque at 4800 rpm. Civic EX models go on sale starting at $16,510.
For 2002, the Civic LX received the largest amount of enhancements, ranging from body colored outer door handles on the exterior to the addition of a rear stabilizer bar for better handling. A radio pocket lid has been added to all LX models, along with a driver's armrest. The door panels on the Civic now feature net storage pockets, and the center console contains a convenient sliding door. Pricing for the Civic LX begins at $14,910.
With a base price of $12,810 for the Coupe and $13,010 for the Sedan, the Civic DX trim level is packed with features above and beyond what is usually expected on an entry-level vehicle. The DX comes equipped with a 115-horsepower engine, power steering, AM/FM stereo, immobilizer theft deterrent system and an adjustable steering column.
The Civic HX Coupe returns as the fuel-efficient leader in the Civic lineup for 2002. The HX is equipped with an automatic CVT (continuously variable transmission) and a 5-speed manual transmission. The Civic HX models start at $13,610.
The Civic GX, equipped with a natural gas powered engine, comes equipped with a CVT. The GX maintains its SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) status in California, the strictest emission standard in the world.
Also new for 2002, an all-new Hatchback version of the Honda Civic carrying the legendary "Si" badge will go on sale in the Spring of 2002. The Si offers high performance with a sporty exterior package and performance oriented interior. Under the hood is a high-output DOHC 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine that produces 160-horsepower and 130-lbs/ft of torque, while attaining the Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) status.
The Civic coupe is produced and constructed using domestic and globally-sourced parts at the Honda of American Manufacturing plant in East Liberty, Ohio, while sedan models are made in both Ohio and by Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario, Canada.