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Honda's first six-cylinder vehicle to incorporate its hybrid Integrated Motor Assist system, a gas/electric-powered Accord Hybrid sedan was introduced this past spring, and it actually out-performs the standard V-6-powered sedan, but with fuel economy that bests the four-cylinder gasoline model. The Accord Hybrid uses its gasoline engine as the dominant propulsion source, with the electric motor providing additional power as conditions warrant. Changes to the 2006 Hybrid include a newly standard Vehicle Stability Assist system, power moonroof, and temporary-use spare tire; exterior revisions include a restyled rear spoiler, front chin spoiler, taillamps, and heated side mirrors. The conventional coupe and sedan continue to come powered by a choice of 166-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 244-hp 3.0-liter V-6 engines. A five-speed-automatic transmission is standard on V-6 Accords, while the EX V-6 coupe may be fitted with a six-speed-manual gearbox. Exterior updates for 2006 include fresh front- and rear-bumper, grille, and decklid designs, restyled alloy wheels, and new exhaust finishers. Inside, there's a new steering wheel design, updated seat fabrics, a new shift knob on automatic transmission models, and a restyled instrument panel with satin chrome vent accents. The V-6 models get suspension tweaks and newly standard Vehicle Stability Assist, while the LX V-6 adds a power moonroof and heated side mirrors.

2006 Honda Civic Si  |  

Honda's front-drive compacts get a makeover for 2006 with fresh styling inside and out. Coupe and sedan models continue in the line, with each offering varying degrees of performance and practicality. The top Si version is the sportiest overall, with sportscar-like handling, and a high-revving engine. Power comes from a 138-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with electronic throttle control that is six percent more fuel-efficient than the 1.7-liter engine in the previous Civic, but with the acceleration of a 2.0-liter engine. You'll need to put the pedal to the floor to find the added power, however. The Si, meanwhile gets a boost from its 197-hp 2.0-liter powerplant. A five-speed manual transmission comes standard with a five speed automatic gearbox options; the Si comes with a six-speed manual. or four-speed automatic transmission. Other performance-enhancing features on the Si include 18-inch cast aluminum wheels and high-performance tires, and four-wheel disc brakes with large cross-drilled brake rotors, and four-piston Brembo calipers. The Civic Hybrid, meanwhile, combines a 1.3-liter in-line four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor/generator and a continuously variable automatic transmission to register an impressive 50 city/highway miles per gallon. A new interior is highlighted by a two-piece instrument panel that places a digital speedometer and other essential readouts in the driver's line of sight. Anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, and a revised suspension system are included across the line. A voice-activated navigation system and XM satellite radio are newly available for 2006.