History of the Honda Civic | Avery Greene Honda | Vallejo, CA

The Honda Civic has been around for almost 50 years, offering consumers around the globe a car with both athletic performance and ample interior space. This compact Honda has established a reputation for reliability — but how did it become as well-known as it is? Here, we delve into the history of the Honda Civic and examine how this compact car has made a big impact on Honda.
 
Before Honda was known for its automobiles, it manufactured motorcycles. In 1972, the company decided to branch out beyond two-wheels, introducing the 1973 Honda Civic in America. This introduction proved to be perfect timing, since the country was experiencing the first of two gas shortages, which led to many consumers looking for small, fuel-efficient rides.
 
The first Civic combined value with efficient power, giving consumers reclining front bucket seats and an AM/FM radio — features that were usually offered only as extras on competitors. With this, the Civic helped establish the brand’s reputation for value-oriented vehicles.
 
While the Civic had made an impression on the American public during its introduction, it wasn’t until the 1980 model that the compact car managed to become mainstream. This model was more powerful and slightly larger than its predecessor, offering the choice between two four-cylinder engines that offered either 55 horsepower or 67 horsepower.
 
The Civic’s popularity continued to build, eventually leading it to become as popular as it is now. Honda started focus on the Civic’s performance, including the first-ever Civic Si model, which made its appearance in 1986. This performance-focused, four-passenger hatchback had a more athletic styling and a punchy 91-horsepower powertrain.
 
Since then, the Civic has continued to grow. In its sixth generation, this car focused on being a solid option for commuters, even refusing to sell a Si edition of the vehicle for a few years, eventually bringing it back in 1999. It grew in size as well, entering the compact class rather than the subcompact option.
 
Now in the tenth generation of the vehicle, the Civic has found the balance between its efficiency, performance, and commuter-ready interior. Its sporty styling can be seen throughout its model lineup, and it also offers its first-ever turbocharged powertrain. You can even opt for a wide range of luxuries and one of three body styles, allowing it to be as versatile as you need it to be.
 
The Honda Civic is one of the best-known and most recognized cars on the roads today, and with as rich a history, it’s no surprise. Visit Avery Greene Honda to check out our extensive inventory of high-quality Honda Civic models.