1996 Honda Civic

Subcompact front-drive Civics again came in three body styles: 2-door notchback coupe, 2-door hatchback, and 4-door sedan. Coupes and sedans were about 2.3 inches longer, whereas the hatchback grew by 4.3 inches--now riding the same wheelbase as the coupe and sedan. A 106-horsepower 4-cylinder engine powered the CX, DX, and LX, and could be accompanied by either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The HX coupes engine makes 115 horsepower, driving either a 5-speed or the innovative new CVT (continuously variable) automatic transmission. It operates somewhat like an electrical dimmer, in contrast to a 3-way light switch. EX Civics hold a 127-horsepower engine, with either manual or automatic shift. Dual airbags were standard on all models. Antilock brakes were standard on the EX sedan, but optional on the LX sedan and EX coupe.