The 2011 Honda Civic is a compact car offered as a coupe or sedan, prices range from $5,956 to $12,593. With a low cost of ownership and reliable powertrains, it is an easy car to recommend to buyers.
- Long-lasting engine and transmission choices.
- Offers a sporty and engaging driving experience for the price.
- Excellent fuel efficiency throughout the lineup.
- Missing safety technology on base models.
- Cargo space is smaller than some of its competitors.
- More road noise than other compact cars.
2011 Honda Civic: Quick Overview
- 2011 is the final year of the 8th generation of the Civic with no changes from 2010. If you want more up-to-date technology and styling, the 2012 model is a better choice.
- Overall, the 2011 scores above average in long-term reliability tests.
- Three engines are available. The most powerful is exclusive to the Si model, and there is a compressed natural gas option.
- Civic is a fuel-efficient car, ranking 4th in the class of 29 vehicles for fuel economy with a combined rating of up to 29 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are mixed on the Civic, getting only a 3-star rating in government crash tests due to poor side-impact tests. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards it a Top Safety Pick.
- The 2011 Civic is one of the most popular compact cars because it is affordable, fun to drive, and well-equipped. It may not be as comfortable or technologically advanced as some competitors, but it is an excellent choice for a daily driver.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Honda Civic Have?
The 2011 Honda Civic is as dependable as ever, despite problem with major airbag recalls. The total number of problems reported for the 2011 Honda Civic is low compared to other model years. Based on owner complaints, interior components breaking are the most common problems with the Civic. Premature brake wear is also mentioned, but that is not very serious since brake pads are consumable, and wear varies depending on individual driving style. Some problems with the clear coat of paint also pop up, but it does not seem to be a widespread issue based on the low number of complaints.
There are 9 recalls affecting the 2011 Civic, more than average for a car this old. 8 are for airbag inflators, which are a common recall on most vehicles, and 1 is for a leak in the fuel pump module. Addressing the recalls here is important for safety since bad airbags can hurt occupants in the event of a crash, and fuel pump problems can increase the risk of a fire.
What are the Prices, Models, Trims & Specs?
The 2011 Honda Civic is available used from $5,956 to $12,593 depending on the model and mileage. The 2011 Honda Civic boasts eight unique trims on sedan models and five on coupes. Pricing on the base models is average for a compact car from 2011, but the Si model is more expensive than its competitors. When new it had a retail price of $15,605 to $27,150. The Civic depreciates slower than other compact cars, losing only 39% of its value in its first 5 years of ownership.
- The base model of the Civic is the DX. Cloth seats, power windows, an AM/FM/CD stereo, and 15-inch steel wheels are standard.
- A step up is the DX-VP, which adds in power mirrors, and a stereo with USB and AUX inputs.
- Above that in the lineup is the LX. Added features include 16-inch wheels, power door locks, remote keyless entry, and upgraded cloth seating.
- A small upgrade is the LX-S model, which adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a spoiler on the trunk.
- Next in the lineup is the popular EX It adds 16-inch alloy wheels, upgraded suspension components, a satellite radio, and a power sunroof.
- Above that is the EX-L, which includes traction and stability control, leather seating, heated seats, heated mirrors, and optional in-dash navigation.
- At the top of the lineup is the Si It gets 17-inch alloy wheels, larger front and rear brakes, a more powerful engine, a 6-speed manual transmission, upgraded cloth interior seating, and aluminum interior trim.
How Long Will the 2011 Honda Civic Last?
Honda Civics last longer than other compact cars and can go over 250,000 miles when properly cared for. Repair Pal estimates maintenance will cost $390 per year, relatively inexpensive for its class.
Yes. The vehicle is very reliable. I have never had major issues with the car since I purchased it over 7 years ago. I plan to keep it forever.
No major mechanical problems. The only problem has been that the airbags have been recalled two separate times.
It is very reliable. The only problem I have with the car is that the tire light comes on when the weather changes.
There are no problems. It is very reliable. Gets me from place to place while keeping my mind at ease.
Yes, like I said, it does not break down and the only issue I had was with the power steering. No other issues.
Yes very reliable that is very good on gas and runs well very well small easy to one of them get in and out of the parking spaces without very much trouble.
This 2011 civic is a very reliable car and I only have had minor problems with it. Nothing major. I will definitely recommend it to other people.
My car currently has no problems. I have had a few issues with tires, but that was not the car itself.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is very basic in the 2011 Civic since it is an economy car and does not have the same features that you get in more expensive vehicles.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system.
- Upgrades include AUX and USB connectivity for the stereo, and on the EX-L model, there is an optional navigation system.
- For safety, there are anti-lock brakes and 6 airbags. The EX-L and Si models add traction and stability control systems for improved handling.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2011 Honda Civic engine options include two naturally aspirated I4s and an available hybrid powertrain. Honda focuses on making the Civic a fun and sporty car with the Si model. It can get from 0 to 60 in 6.4 seconds, which is quick for a car at this price point.
- The base engine is a 1.8L 4-cylinder with 140 horsepower
- An upgraded engine found in the Si model is a 2.0L 4-cylinder producing 197 horsepower.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Civic?
The 2011 Honda Civic is a small car offered as either a coupe or sedan. The sedan has more rear legroom than other cars in its class, making it more comfortable for passengers. Seats in the back of the coupe are tight, and best suited for children. Trunk space is small, at only 12 cubic feet of room. It is enough to fit 3 suitcases, but it will be tight to fit anything else.
How Does the 2011 Honda Civic Compare to Other Cars?
The 2011 Civic ranks 12th out of 29 small cars based on owner reviews, putting it in the middle of the pack. A close competitor is the Kia Forte, which has a better safety rating, and more advanced technology. Where Honda wins out is in reliability since there are fewer reported complaints. Based on reviews from owners, the Civic is a better choice if you want a long-lasting small car.
Another rival is the Toyota Corolla, which is famous for its long-lasting powertrain. Interior materials are similar between the two cars, but the Civic feels a bit more refined compared to the simple cabin in the Toyota. Both cars also are enjoyable to drive, but the Honda feels more connected and nimble, and the Toyota is more comfortable. Either car is a good choice that ultimately comes down to driver preference.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Honda Civic a Good Car?
Based on our research, we can say yes, the 2011 Honda Civic is a good car. Long-term reliability and a nice interior for its class help make it a popular choice. Where the Civic falls short is with safety scores that are lower than average and limited cargo space. Overall, if you are in the market for an affordable compact car, the Civic is worth taking a look at.