Hey guys! Let’s dive into the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback, a car that combines practicality, style, and a bit of luxury. If you're looking for a versatile vehicle that’s fun to drive and packed with features, this could be the one for you. In this article, we'll cover everything from its performance and interior comforts to its tech features and overall value. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback

The 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback stands out in the crowded compact car market with its sporty design, spacious interior, and impressive fuel efficiency. Honda has a reputation for reliability, and this model is no exception. It's designed to appeal to a wide range of drivers, from young professionals to small families. The EX-L trim adds a touch of luxury with leather seats and additional features, making it a compelling option for those who want a bit more comfort.

One of the key highlights of the 2021 Civic EX-L Hatchback is its versatility. The hatchback design provides ample cargo space, making it perfect for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. The car's nimble handling and responsive engine make it enjoyable to drive in both city and highway conditions. Plus, with Honda's suite of safety features, you can feel confident behind the wheel.

Compared to other trims in the Civic lineup, the EX-L offers a sweet spot of features without breaking the bank. It includes upgrades like leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and a larger touchscreen display. These enhancements elevate the driving experience and make the car feel more upscale. If you're considering a Civic, the EX-L Hatchback is definitely worth a closer look.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a satisfying blend of power and efficiency. This engine produces around 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of pep for daily driving. Whether you're merging onto the highway or navigating city streets, the Civic EX-L Hatchback feels responsive and energetic.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) contributes to the car's smooth and efficient performance. While some enthusiasts might miss the engagement of a traditional manual transmission, the CVT in the Civic is well-tuned and provides seamless acceleration. It also helps the car achieve impressive fuel economy figures, making it a great choice for those who want to save money at the pump. You can expect to get around 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, which is excellent for a car in this class.

The handling of the Civic EX-L Hatchback is another strong point. The car feels planted and stable in corners, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and precise steering. It's easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the ride quality is comfortable enough for long road trips. Overall, the Civic EX-L Hatchback offers a balanced driving experience that's both enjoyable and practical.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback, you'll immediately notice the upgraded interior compared to lower trims. The leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury, making the seats feel more comfortable and supportive. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The front seats are also heated, which is a welcome feature on cold days.

The interior design is modern and functional, with a clean layout and intuitive controls. The dashboard is well-organized, and the materials used throughout the cabin feel high-quality. The EX-L trim also includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, adding to the upscale feel.

One of the standout features of the Civic Hatchback is its spaciousness. There's plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate adults, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently carpool. The hatchback design also provides a generous amount of cargo space, with up to 25.7 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to 46.2 cubic feet, providing ample space for larger items.

Technology and Features

The 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback is packed with technology features that enhance the driving experience. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a 7-inch touchscreen display that's compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation.

The EX-L trim also includes a premium audio system with eight speakers, providing crisp and clear sound quality. Other notable tech features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. The car also comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

These technology features not only make the Civic EX-L Hatchback more convenient to use but also enhance safety. The advanced driver-assistance systems can help prevent accidents and make driving less stressful. Overall, the Civic EX-L Hatchback offers a well-rounded package of technology features that are sure to impress.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Honda, and the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Honda Sensing includes adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, and lane keeping assist can gently steer the car back into the center of the lane.

Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate an accident. Other safety features include a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, and multiple airbags. The Civic EX-L Hatchback has also earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), giving you peace of mind knowing that you're driving a safe and reliable vehicle.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

One of the standout features of the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback is its impressive fuel economy. With an EPA rating of 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, this car is one of the most fuel-efficient in its class. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) work together to maximize fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but most drivers report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates. This makes the Civic EX-L Hatchback an excellent choice for those who want to save money on gas. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a long road trip, you can count on the Civic EX-L Hatchback to deliver impressive fuel economy.

Pricing and Value

The 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback offers excellent value for the money. With a starting price of around $27,000, it's competitively priced compared to other compact cars in its class. The EX-L trim adds a number of premium features, such as leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and a larger touchscreen display, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those who want a bit more luxury.

When you consider the Civic's reliability, fuel efficiency, and comprehensive suite of features, it's clear that it offers a great value proposition. It's a car that's both practical and enjoyable to drive, making it a smart choice for a wide range of buyers. Plus, with Honda's reputation for reliability, you can expect the Civic EX-L Hatchback to last for many years with proper maintenance.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback:

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent gas mileage for both city and highway driving.
• Spacious Interior: Ample room for passengers and cargo.
• Premium Features: Leather upholstery, premium audio system, and more.
• Reliability: Honda's reputation for building reliable cars.
• Safety Features: Comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.

Cons:

• CVT Transmission: Some drivers may prefer a traditional automatic or manual transmission.
• Infotainment System: While functional, the infotainment system could be more intuitive.
• Price: The EX-L trim is more expensive than lower trims.

Final Verdict

The 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback is a well-rounded car that offers a compelling combination of practicality, style, and features. It's fuel-efficient, spacious, and packed with technology, making it a great choice for a wide range of drivers. While it may not be the flashiest or most exciting car on the market, it's a reliable and sensible option that offers excellent value for the money. If you're in the market for a compact car, the Civic EX-L Hatchback is definitely worth considering.

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about the 2021 Honda Civic EX-L Hatchback. I hope this review has been helpful, and happy car shopping!