The Honda Civic was once a default purchase in the compact segment. There were other cars, but the Civic just felt more complete, more mature than any of the other choices.
Starting MSRP $15,605 – $21,955
The compact car world has evolved much too fast for the Civic to hold that particular premium. The Ford Focus and Hyundai Sonata are more stylish, the Chevy Cruze is more practical, and there are a host of other small hot wheels breathing down Honda's tailpipe. But the 2012 Civic, redesigned to provide more room and a better interior, remains one of the most civil of choices.