The 2006 Honda Civic landed the second spot on Kelley Blue Book’s recent “10 Best Used Compact Cars Under $5,000” list. KBB calls the Civic a “compact car legend.” This value-focused entry-level car comes in sedan and coupe body styles and sporty models such as the Civic Si. Plus, it offers good fuel economy, great build quality, and excellent reliability. The 2006 Honda Civic also boasts strong crash test scores and plenty of interior space for passengers and cargo.

What engine comes in a 2006 Honda Civic? 

The 2006 Honda Civic offers multiple engine choices. The first is for the performance-focused driver and is found in Civic Si models. It’s a 2.0-liter i-VTEC DOHC four-cylinder harnessing 197 hp and 139 lb-ft of torque. This engine gets an EPA-estimated 22/31 mpg city/highway. 

Next is the Civic’s hybrid engine, a 1.3-liter i-VTEC SOHC four-cylinder with Integrated Motor Assist. It produces 110 hp and 123 lb-ft of torque and gets 49/51 mpg city/highway. 

Last, and the best performer overall, is the 1.8-liter i-VTEC SOHC four-cylinder. It makes 140 hp and 128 lb-feet of torque and gets 30/40 mpg city/highway.

Standard interior features

The 2006 Honda Civic’s trim levels are the DX, LX, and EX. The base model comes equipped with features such as a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. 

If you’re looking for more bells and whistles, upgrade to the LX. It has a CD player, power accessories, keyless entry, and cruise control. 

EX trims offer luxurious amenities. They include a moonroof, a 60/40-split rear seatback, two extra speakers, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

In addition, Honda Civic Si models include a sport-tuned suspension and unique interior trim. EX, Hybrid, and Si models are all available with satellite radio and a built-in navigation system.

Is the 2006 Honda Civic a safe car?

Yes, the Honda Civic is a safe compact car. All 2006 models have antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and active front-seat head restraints. Higher trim levels feature front disc/rear drum brakes, and EX and Si models come with four-wheel discs.

In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2006 Honda Civic a Top Safety Pick. And the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded this four-door sedan a perfect 5-star frontal crash rating.

Should you buy a 2006 Honda Civic?

The 2006 Honda Civic is an excellent used car if you need an affordable and reliable ride. And no matter which model you choose, you’ll get an efficient engine and useful features.

However, Kelley Blue Book picked one used compact car over the Honda: the 2005 Toyota Corolla. The Corolla outranked its rival for resale value and its 35 mpg highway gas mileage. But you can’t go wrong with either option.