Honda Civic again gets poor rating from Consumer Reports

The 2012 Honda Civic, redesigned for it ninth edition, has drawn extensive criticism from Consumer Reports, the independent review publication that as recently as 2007 gave the perennially top-ranked small sedan its top score.

The publication’s biggest complaint was the Civic LX’s cheap plastic interior, numb steering, weak stopping power, road noise and flighty handling. A lack of  Bluetooth and outside temperature display in the $19,405 LX sedan dropped its score from a “very good” 78 to a “mediocre” 61.

Consumer Reports also didn’t list the Honda Civic among its recommended vehicles last year, but its score wasn’t as low.

The 2012 Honda Civic’s score was the second-lowest among a test of 12 small sedans, with  redesigned Volkswagen Jetta scoring lower.

Additionally, the magazine noted competition in the small-sedan category, particularly from the class-leading Hyundai Elantra, has increased.

Honda quickly responded to the criticism.

“In a broad sense we disagree with Consumer Reports’ findings,” a manufacturer representative said in a statement. “Without question, the small sedan segment is more competitive than ever.

“In virtually every way, the completely redesigned 2012 Honda Civic is a step forward. The new Civic excels in areas that matter to small-car customers, including fuel efficiency, safety and reliability.”

Read the following reviews:

2012 Honda Civic

2011 Honda Civic

2009 Honda Civic Hybrid

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