Honda has reintroduced the hybrid version of its Civic for the 2025 model year, and it seems to be a winner. The last time Honda offered a hybrid Civic in the U.S. was in 2015, and since then, the company has focused on improving its hybrid technology. For the 2025 Civic Hybrid, Honda has refined its two-motor hybrid system, which combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors. These motors work together to provide a total system output of 200 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. This makes the Civic Hybrid quicker than the turbocharged 1.5-liter model it effectively replaces, as well as the heavier Accord Hybrid.
One of the standout features of the Civic Hybrid is its seamless acceleration. Without a conventional transmission, the Civic Hybrid uses a direct-drive gearbox that modulates engine RPM to create the sensation of shifting gears. This creates a smooth and effortless acceleration experience. Additionally, the Civic Hybrid offers different driving modes, including a Sport mode that simulates gearchanges and increases steering effort for a more engaging driving experience.
Despite the extra weight of the hybrid system, the Civic Hybrid still feels solid and handles well. The suspension has been retuned to account for the added stiffness, and the steering provides good on-center feel. The Civic Hybrid also offers impressive fuel efficiency, with EPA estimates of 50 mpg in the city and 47 mpg on the highway. In our own highway fuel-economy test, the Civic Hybrid matched the EPA’s highway number.
In terms of design, the 2025 Civic Hybrid benefits from the updates made to the entire Civic lineup. The front-end styling has been refreshed, and additional structural reinforcements have been added to improve safety performance. Inside, the Civic Hybrid offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin, with features like a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats available on the Sport Hybrid trim.
The Civic Hybrid sedan will be available first, followed by the hatchback version later in the summer. Both body styles will be offered in Sport and Sport Touring trims. The base price for the Civic Hybrid Sport Touring sedan is $32,845, which is $2,500 more than the gas-only Sport trim. However, the additional cost is justified by the hybrid powertrain and the added features included in the Sport Touring trim.
Overall, the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid is a compelling choice for those in the market for a hybrid sedan. It offers impressive performance, excellent fuel efficiency, and a comfortable and well-equipped interior. With Honda’s continued improvements to its hybrid technology, the Civic Hybrid proves that going hybrid doesn’t come with many downsides.