For 2025, the Honda Civic introduces a new hybrid powertrain that matches the Corolla hybrid in terms of fuel economy, but the new pricing puts it in an odd position.
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For better or worse, Honda is making a push for electrification. The Japanese brand was behind on the BEV front, but progress is being made. Following the eleventh-generation Honda Accord, the 2025 Honda Civic is getting some new variants in place of old trim levels. It's no secret that hybrid Toyota models like the Corolla, Camry, and Prius are very popular, but the new Civic comes with revised powertrain options that match some of Toyota's hybrid offerings in some regards and even outmatch them in others.
New Honda Civic trim levels mean there is no more turbocharged engine
In the same way that Honda deprived the eleventh-generation Accord of the K20 turbo-four engine, the 2025 Honda Civic will not be offering the 1.5-liter turbocharged, inline-four engine. The 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated base engine is coming back for the LX and Sport trims. It offers slightly better fuel economy than the 2024 model, but can only be mated to a CVT.
The EX and Sport trims from yesteryear are being revised for 2025, and the Civic now gets two hybrid trims - the Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid. The hybrid setup is similar to the one found in the 2024 Honda Accord, meaning you get a 2.0-liter, Atkinson-cycle, inline-four engine aided by a powerful electric motor for a combined system output of 200 horsepower and 232 pound-feet.
The electric motor, alone, makes 182 horsepower and contributes to a 6.3-second 0 to 60 mph time. Again, the only available transmission is an eCVT unit that sends power exclusively to the front wheels.
With hybrid models, it is always worth talking fuel economy, and while Honda hybrids weren't known as the most efficient in the past, this one is.
The 2025 Honda Civic hybrid can return up to 50 MPG in the city, 47 MPG on the highway, and 49 MPG combined.
To put things in perspective, the 2024 Toyota Corolla hybrid's fuel economy according to the EPA ratings is 53 MPG in the city, 46 MPG on the highway, and 50 MPG combined. It is worth noting that the Corolla's hybrid powertrain is much less powerful at 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet. The Corolla hybrid also takes 2.5 seconds longer for the 0 to 60 mph discipline at 8.8 seconds.
Is the 2025 Honda Civic expensive?
Official pricing for the 2025 Honda Civic reveals something interesting. Here's how it looks:
1. Honda Civic LX (base): $24,250 MSRP ($1,095 destination charge not included)
2. Honda Civic Sport: $26,250 MSRP ($1,095 destination charge not included)
3. Honda Civic Sport Hybrid: $28,750 MSRP ($1,095 destination charge not included)
4. Honda Civic Sport Touring Hybrid: $31,750 MSRP ($1,095 destination charge not included)
In terms of sheer numbers, Honda's new Civic hybrid asserts dominance among the other FHEV models in the segment, especially when compared to the Corolla and Elantra hybrids, which offer similar MPG, but a lot less performance per dollar. However, at nearly $30,000 for the hybrid model, you are getting into Camry territory.
The Toyota Camry continues to be a popular model in North America, and with a starting MSRP of $29,495, for the 2024 hybrid model, it's understandable. Moreover, Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid powertrains, revolving around the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force engine are a lot more potent than anything the Corolla currently has, aside from the GR Corolla hot hatchback.
With a few desirable options, you can get a well-equipped Toyota Camry hybrid for just over $31,000. This is a big problem for the 2025 Civic hybrid, especially when you keep in mind, the range-topping, Sport Touring Hybrid trim doesn't get you a whole lot over the base hybrid Civic.
The 2025 Honda Civic hybrid's strongest aces are the compact package and performance
While the Toyota Camry is more car for the money, the 2025 Civic hybrid is the latest in sporty hybrid models. I am in no way suggesting it comes close to the Honda Civic Type-R's uncompromising performance, but with a 6.3-second 0-60 mph time, it's quicker than anything else in the segment.
That and the Honda Civic has always been the sportiest proposition in its segment. Moreover, those that don't necessarily need a car as big as the Camry, but want a bit of performance while still getting great MPG, now have a true offering on the compact hybrid market.
About the author
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image sources: 2025 Honda Civic Pricing, 2025 Honda Civic gains powerful hybrid trims
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