The Good
The 2014 Honda Civic Hybrid boasts exceptional fuel efficiency, a primary draw for practical buyers seeking low running costs. Its smooth, quiet ride and comfortable interior offer an appealing experience for emotional buyers. Backed by Honda's strong reputation for reliability, it provides peace of mind, while its understated design and strong resale potential further enhance its value proposition.
The Bad
A significant weakness is the potential for the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery to degrade over time, leading to costly replacement. It offers less trunk space compared to the conventional Civic due to battery placement, and its acceleration is modest. Some owners report the continuously variable transmission (CVT) can feel uninspired, and its initial purchase price was higher.
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid: Quick Overview
The 2014 Honda Civic Hybrid is powered by a single powertrain configuration, emphasizing efficiency over raw power.
- Engine: It features a 1.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor (Honda's Integrated Motor Assist - IMA) and a lithium-ion battery pack.
- Horsepower: The combined system output is 110 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: Power is sent to the front wheels via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimates for the 2014 model year were highly competitive, typically around 44 MPG city, 47 MPG highway, and 45 MPG combined.
- 0-60 MPH: Acceleration is leisurely, with 0-60 mph times generally in the 10.0 to 10.5-second range.
- Towing Capacity: The 2014 Honda Civic Hybrid is not rated or recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features: The Civic Hybrid typically came in a single, well-equipped trim, often referred to simply as the "Hybrid." Standard features included:
- Automatic climate control
- Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and streaming audio
- USB audio interface
- Honda's i-MID (intelligent Multi-Information Display) with a 5-inch LCD screen
- Power windows and door locks
- Cruise control
- Steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls
- Keyless entry
- Eco Assist™ system
- Automatic headlights
- 15-inch alloy wheels
- A rearview camera system
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2014 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | Civic Hybrid |
| Trim | - |
| Style | CVT |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | GREENSBURG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2873 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4000 pounds |
| Overall Height | 56.30 inches |
| Overall Length | 179.40 inches |
| Overall Width | 69.00 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 105.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.3-L L-4 SOHC 8V Hybrid |
| Engine Size | 1.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Transmission Type | CVT |
| Transmission Speeds | Continuously Variable |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $24,635 |
| Invoice Price | $22,882 |
| Delivery Charges | $790 |
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Have?
Another area of concern can be the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While generally robust, some owners report shuddering or rough operation at higher mileages if maintenance, particularly fluid changes, has been neglected. Air conditioning compressor failures are also occasionally reported, though not as widespread as the battery issue. Furthermore, like many vehicles of its era, the 2014 Civic Hybrid was subject to the widespread Takata airbag inflator recalls. Owners should verify if their specific vehicle has had all applicable recall work completed through NHTSA's website using their VIN. Other minor issues might include squeaks and rattles, or infotainment glitches, but these are less critical. Long-term reliability is good for the conventional powertrain components (engine), but the hybrid battery's lifespan remains the primary wildcard for long-term ownership costs and overall vehicle longevity.
How long will the 2014 Honda Civic Hybrid last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
In terms of driver-assistance, the 2014 Civic Hybrid relied on fundamental systems. It included Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control, a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD), and brake assist. Advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not offered at this time.
Safety features were comprehensive for passenger protection. It came standard with dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags for both front and rear passengers. A multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines was also standard, significantly aiding parking and reversing. Other safety provisions included a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) for child seat installation.
Crash-test ratings for the 2014 Honda Civic Hybrid were generally very strong. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it an overall 5-star safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2014 Civic (including hybrid variants) "Good" ratings in most categories, including moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints & seats. It received an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front test, which was a challenging new test at the time.
What Colors Options are Available?
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Prices and Market Value
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Cost of Ownership
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Fuel Efficiency
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Safety Rating
IIHS
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2014 Honda Civic Hybrid Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of performance, the Civic Hybrid, with its 110 hp, was generally less powerful than the Ford C-Max Hybrid (188 hp combined) which offered a more engaging and responsive drive. It was roughly on par with the standard Toyota Prius (98 hp from its gasoline engine, 134 total system hp including electric) in terms of acceleration and overall power delivery, both prioritizing efficiency over dynamism.
Features across these rivals were competitive. The Civic Hybrid offered standard Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and available navigation. The Toyota Prius often came with a more established infotainment system and, in higher trims, could offer more advanced features like LED headlights. The Ford C-Max Hybrid also came well-equipped, often featuring Ford's SYNC or MyFord Touch infotainment system.
Reliability is where key differences emerge. While Honda enjoys a strong reputation, the 2014 Civic Hybrid's Achilles' heel is its Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery, which has a known history of degradation and costly replacement. In contrast, the Toyota Prius has an arguably superior and more proven hybrid synergy drive system, with its batteries generally demonstrating exceptional longevity and reliability, giving it an edge in long-term peace of mind. The Ford C-Max Hybrid also had a relatively solid, but shorter, track record in this period.
Regarding price, new, they were all competitive within the mid-$20,000 range. However, on the used market, the Civic Hybrid's price is often undercut by its battery concerns, potentially making it cheaper than a comparable Prius. This price difference on the used market reflects the perceived risk of battery replacement.
Recommended alternatives that are often considered "better" for a similar purpose include the Toyota Prius for its peerless hybrid system reliability and strong fuel economy. For those seeking more engaging performance while still getting good fuel economy, the Ford C-Max Hybrid could be a good alternative, though it was a hatchback/wagon, not a sedan. A conventional Honda Civic from the same year might also be a "better" choice for some, offering Honda reliability without the hybrid battery complexity and cost risk, albeit with lower MPG.