Civic rebirth.

Honda has outdone itself with the radically transformed 2006 Civic. Forget the vanilla styling of the past--this Honda takes chances and succeeds. The most noticeable features of the 2006 Civic include its expressive exterior styling (look at that windshield rake!), a high-tech and spacious interior with the speedometer right at eye level, and performance that makes it fun to drive. The lineup consists of the racing Si, a gorgeous coupe, an elegant sedan, and a 50-mile-per-gallon hybrid. Each pushes segment standards for safety, technology, and performance.

The Civic's interior is fun and futuristic. The driver's seat has an adjustable height feature and comes standard with tilt and telescoping steering wheel. It's a solid-feeling car that gives the impression of being more expensive than it is. Music options provide as many as seven ways to enjoy audio, including XM Satellite Radio, MP3 and WMA support, and an accessory Apple iPod adapter that connects to the Civic's audio controls.

On the road the new Civic's SOHC, 16-valve, 1.8-liter four-cylinder produces 140 horses while achieving Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle standards in all 50 states. The i-VTEC engine delivers more power than ever yet gets an EPA-estimated 30 miles per gallon in the city and 40 on the highway with the five-speed automatic. All-new suspension hugs the road, and body rigidity is up 35% over the previous model. You want safety? Try standard antilock brakes, side curtain air bags, front side air bags, active head restraints, and more.

Whichever Civic you pick, you've made a wise choice. In case you don't believe us, Motor Trend just named the entire lineup its 2006 Car of the Year.