The 2020 Honda Civic hatchback receives front and rear aesthetic tweaks for 2020, including updated foglight housings and accents for the front trim that are blacked out. Inside, there are several new surface designs that vary by trim level as well as a few new features (such as a power-adjustable driver’s seat in EX grades).
All 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback also receive more soundproofing, which should help ease some of the issues we’ve had with road noise with this particular model. And all models—aside from the entry-level LX—get smartphone integration for Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
Honda is now adding the Sport Touring grade to the list of models for which the optional six-speed manual transmission is available for the Civic. This decision is a welcome demonstration of Honda’s commitment to maintaining the close relationship between the vehicle and the driver at a time when automakers can’t get rid of the antiquated stick shift fast enough.
All of this enhances the 2020 Honda Civic hatchback’s already strong points, which also include rapid acceleration, precise handling, and adaptability for hauling baggage. The sporty, recently revised Mazda 3, the weather-resistant Subaru Impreza, and the cost-effective Kia Forte are still worth considering, but the 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback continues to set the standard.
The Honda Civic Hatchback is an even better compact car than its reputation would imply, with a satisfying driving experience, a useful cabin, and a variety of models. It comes in efficient and reasonably priced sedan, coupe, and hatchback variations.
Both the standard engine and the optional turbocharged engine offer good power and high fuel efficiency, and there are many technological and safety features available.
2020 Honda Civic Hatchback: What Has Changed for 2020?
The 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback receives aesthetic upgrades, additional amenities, and reconfigured trim levels, while the sedan and coupe underwent an update for 2019 and remain unchanged for 2020.
While the inside décor is slightly altered and there is more sound deadening to quiet the cabin, the grille, headlights, front and rear bumpers, and wheels are all new. A 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, keyless entry, and push-button start is now standard on the Sport hatchback.
The driver’s seat in the EX hatchback has power adjustments. The fully loaded Sport Touring variant can now be obtained with the six-speed manual transmission, which was previously only available on Sport hatchback models.
2020 Honda Civic Hatchback: Performance: Engine, Transmission, and Others
The 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback’s four-cylinder engines are brisk, but we prefer the more expensive but more potent turbocharged model. It is a fantastic engine. It actively drew our Civic Touring test vehicle away from stoplights during our testing.
Although we think the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which is an option, is one of the best on the market, we still prefer the smooth, light action of the six-speed manual.
The 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback is a truly multi-talented vehicle that successfully balances comfort and driver involvement. It is a delight to drive because of its comfortable ride, quick steering, and energetic driving characteristics. The 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback’s ride is exactly right—it’s neither soft nor hard.
The Honda Civic Hatchback is much more fun to drive because of its quick, well-balanced, and surprisingly responsive steering. The Sport variants, which have quicker steering, are recommended for those seeking more sporty emotions. The brakes lack the stopping power of rivals despite having a solid brake pedal with a nice feel.
2020 Honda Civic Hatchback: Fuel Efficiency and Actual MPG
Honda demonstrates that power and fuel economy do not have to be antagonistic. However, surprisingly, the more potent turbocharged engine manages to yield somewhat better fuel economy than the base 2.0-liter found in lower-level Civic sedans and coupes.
Both Civic four-cylinders use fuel as sparingly as if it were fifty dollars a snifter of brandy. Sadly, in our real-world highway fuel economy test, the Civic’s fuel economy did not live up to expectations. Our Civic Touring sedan with a turbocharger came in barely short of the EPA rating.
Additionally, we managed to get a Civic Sport hatchback with a six-speed manual at 37 mpg, which is 2 mpg less than the EPA estimate.
Cargo, Comfort, and the Interior
The 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback’s interior is spacious and provides enough storage space, and it has a practical and contemporary style. Even the base model is not close to a penalty box.
Even if it doesn’t have the most optional comfort and convenience features in the tiny car class, it still has plenty of good stuff to satisfy any buyer of a little car. Although the rear seats of the coupe are essentially worthless for anyone taller than normal, the sedan’s interior is on the roomier end of its class.
The 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback’s interior is full of nifty storage compartments, and the sedan’s trunk is one of the largest in its class. Do you need the ability to carry even more cargo? then take a look at the hatchback design. However, the coupe prioritizes fashion over utility.
Connectivity and Information
The addition of a volume knob for the music system and hard buttons for specific operations has greatly improved Honda’s touchscreen interface. The Touring sedan, our top-of-the-line model, boasts a 7.0-inch touchscreen with navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity.
Two USB ports and a single 12-volt outlet are located in the front compartment. Unfortunately, the Honda Civic Hatchback’s rear seats lack 12-volt outlets and USB ports because they are in the front seats.
A Stable and Powerful Driving Experience
A 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder with a turbocharger powers the 2020 Honda Civic Hatchback’s powerplant. The trim level and transmission being used affect the torque and horsepower that this engine produces.
The Continuously Variable Transmission (LL-CVT) is available on the LX, EX, and EX-L trims. The engine generates 162 lb-ft of torque and 174 horsepower when used with this transmission.
Summary
Family life often requires making compromises, such as sacrificing your ideal sports car for a more practical one. For some people, this compromise could be the worst decision of their lives.
The Honda Civic Hatchback remains a competitive competitor in the compact segment, despite its shortcomings. Since its US release, this car has gained popularity due to its balanced driving, high specification levels, and exceptional practicality.
Its strong 1.5-liter turbo-four-cylinder engine, which produces 174–180 horsepower, is also remarkably economical. Standard trims come with a CVT automatic, while the Sport and Sport Touring trims come with a six-speed manual transmission.
The Honda Civic Hatch is a safe and entertaining vehicle suitable for a family, especially when driven with a stick. However, The Mazda 3, VW Golf, and Toyota Corolla Hatchback are among the enthusiastic all-around vehicles that appeal to parents who still enjoy driving.
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