The Good
The 2021 Honda Civic appeals to both emotional and practical buyers. It offers a responsive and engaging driving experience, renowned Honda reliability, and a comfortable interior for daily commutes. Its sleek design and fuel efficiency also add to its appeal, while its strong resale value makes it a smart long-term investment.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2021 Honda Civic include the somewhat uninspired base engine performance. Some found the infotainment system less intuitive than competitors. Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT), while efficient, may not appeal to all driving enthusiasts. Check for proper CVT maintenance during pre-purchase inspection.
2021 Honda Civic: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 (LX, Sport)
- 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 (EX, Touring)
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L: 158 hp
- 1.5T: 174 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.0L: Up to 30 mpg city / 38 mpg highway
- 1.5T: Up to 31 mpg city / 42 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.0L: Around 8.5 seconds
- 1.5T: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: Standard safety features (Honda Sensing), 5-inch display screen, automatic climate control.
- Sport: Upgraded interior trim, 7-inch display screen, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
- EX: Sunroof, heated seats, blind-spot monitoring.
- Touring: Leather upholstery, premium audio system, navigation, adaptive cruise control, LED headlights.
2021 Honda Civic Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | Civic |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Minicompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | MARYSVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.5-L L-4 DOHC 16V Turbo |
| Engine Size | 1.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Transmission Type | CVT CVT |
| Transmission Speeds | Continuously Variable |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 Honda Civic Have?
Recalls can vary, so it's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any active recalls related to the 2021 Honda Civic, using the VIN. Long-term reliability concerns are typically minimal with proper maintenance, but keeping up with scheduled CVT fluid changes is crucial to prevent premature transmission wear. Some older Civic models had issues with paint quality or excessive oil consumption, but these are not widely reported for the 2021 model year. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic can help identify potential problems before buying a used 2021 Civic.
How long will the 2021 Honda Civic last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Tech & Entertainment: Lower trims come with a 5-inch display screen, while higher trims feature a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Navigation is available on the Touring trim. A premium audio system is also offered on higher trims.
Driver-Assistance: All 2021 Civics come standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assistance features including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. Blind-spot monitoring is available on EX and Touring trims.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, multiple airbags, and a rearview camera.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2021 Honda Civic generally received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). It's important to check the specific ratings for the body style (sedan or hatchback) as they may differ slightly. Optional features like automatic high beams and rain-sensing wipers are available on higher trims.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2021 Honda Civic Prices and Market Value
2021 Honda Civic Cost of Ownership
2021 Honda Civic Fuel Efficiency
2021 Honda Civic Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Honda Civic Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
2021 Honda Civic Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2021 Honda Civic Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Honda Civic Compare to Other Sedan?
Compared to the Corolla, the Civic generally has a slightly more modern interior design and, in some trims, a peppier engine. The Mazda3 excels in handling and interior quality but may be slightly less fuel-efficient. The Elantra and Forte offer excellent value for money but may not match the Civic's long-term reliability reputation.
Alternatives to consider: If driving enjoyment is a priority, the Mazda3 is a great choice. If value is paramount, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Forte are worth considering. If rock-solid reliability is the main concern, the Toyota Corolla is a strong contender, offering similar strengths as the Civic.
Ranks #201 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 201 | 2021 Honda Civic | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Honda Civic a Good Sedan?
Bob B on October 26, 2024
I have the touring edition with all the bells andI have the touring edition with all the bells and whistles. This top of the line car really boasts quality, the chrome touches and unique front end really makes it stand out. If you drive it in sport it drives really well along with great gas mileage. The ten speaker 452 watt sounds great, wish the subwoofer was larger but if you tune it well most songs sound good. The touring exterior really looks sharp, it looks different from the lower models.
Pelly on April 22, 2024
The Ever-Expanding CivicThis car is the whole package: fun to drive, excellent handling, braking & steering, and a great throttle response (with the 1.5 turbo). Plus it comes with a slew of Honda safety features. It is a remarkable upgrade from my 2013 Civic. I hope that over the years, it will have the same reliability.
Wilfredo Castanon on October 16, 2023
No más y no voy a recomendar a nadieEste dealer no sirve son incompetente. Me arrepiento de a ver comprado en ese lugar. Yo he comprado muchos carros en este paÃÂÂs. Pero nunca me avia y majinado del peor negocio de mi vida. Estoy muy decepcionado.
Retired mom on October 14, 2023
Found what I was looking forLow mileage, excellent condition, very reliable, excellent financing and warranty. Purchased within 24 hours of contacting dealer and delivered next day. Very pleased with process and with car.
Matthew mabe on July 30, 2023
great cars(cvt sucks)First if all I wouldn't recommend the cvt transmissions they are driven by belt and many moving components and are more expensive to replace second the Manuel transmissions are amazing and with cruise control shifting doesn't disable it can get increased fuel millage with a ktuner(tuner) me and my friend flashed a performance tune we took a 230 mile trip and the fuel millage was 45-47 the whole time great cars
Albert on January 17, 2023
Great Commuter carThis is a great car for commuting. Excellent gas mileage of 39+MPG on the highway (without traffic). You can't go wrong with the reliability and affordability of a Honda. Getting a safe car under $30K is becoming increasing difficult in 2023. I only wish it came in AWD! Are listening engineers. not everyone wants to drive a CR-V.
Kate on November 30, 2022
Best car I've ever had!I love this car. Easy to drive and looks fantastic. The back seats are kind of cramped, but I love having a hatchback. I love the features. I don't like the automatic braking that much because it turns on randomly and slows down in the middle of driving. My battery died once in the cold and I had to get a new one. Honda dealership service sucks a lot. The paint on the car is cheap and chips off randomly.
Sandra Speer on April 16, 2022
Honda Scamming Their CustomersThis is the worst car I have ever driven. Honda uses factory defects to coerce their customers into trading. My 2021 Civic has a transmission oil leak and the computer is shutting down one function at a time. It started with the phone not staying connected, now windows/trunk go down by themselves, alarm does not work, and tire sensors are out. 3 dealerships and Honda Nat. have refused to help me. The only thing they will say to me is, "If you are unhappy with your car, we can offer you a trade." Be careful, this is a SCAM. It is so bad that the GM of one of the dealerships tried to force me into saying I would trade for $9,000.00 more than the car I have now through email that day. Refused to show me the contract or the car. Factory defects are caused by Honda buying defective computer chips. This is not the time to buy a Honda. I can play recordings from dealership GMs and Honda Nat. Ser. Manager to prove what I am saying. If you want to more intormation, please feel free to contact me.
Irene Rodriguez on March 28, 2022
SERVICE! IS THE PRIORITY ! fAST AND VERY EFFICENT!excellant on gas, runs real smooth. I love my car am so very happy with it! Its got power and I will always buy a Honda, especially from the dealership Rusty Wallas!! Outstandng service!
El on June 12, 2021
New car smell too overpowering to drive carNew car smell makes me sick and is very toxic. I thought Honda was supposed to use less toxic interior materials but not in this car. Plus it's already vibrating at idle and it only has 30 miles on it's
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.