Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2018 Honda Civic
With an overall Carivo score of 8.1/10, the 2018 Honda Civic earns a Recommended rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.2/10, while Performance at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Honda Civic's reliability at 9.2/10 — among the strongest in our sedan database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. On safety it earns 8.3/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.6/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology comes in at 7.4/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $20,459–$26,251, 27 MPG, seating 5, the Honda Civic sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. The 8.3/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this sedan delivers more than most of the class. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Think of the 2018 Honda Civic as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2018 Honda Civic ranks #117 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 91% of the segment. Its 8.1/10 overall score is 0.6 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $20,459 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 26%.
Smart-money pick: the 2015 Honda Civic scores 7.9/10 — within striking distance of the 2018's 8.1 — and starts roughly $2,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Accessible entry price makes it one of the more affordable options in the category
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
NHTSA Recalls — 2018 Honda Civic (6 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Acura NSX, 2019 Acura RDX, RLX and RLX Sport Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Accord, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R and HR-V, 2019-2020 Insight and 2019 Fit vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside…
Equipment / Other / Labels 20/06/2018 · 18V421000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018 Honda Civic vehicles. The manufacturing date area of the certification labels may have random characters which can affect the owner's ability to determine if a safety recall includes their vehicle.
Steering / Electric power assist system 27/09/2018 · 18V663000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Honda Civic and CR-V vehicles. The magnet that controls the
torque sensor output signal for the electronic power steering system may not be properly secured, allowing the magnet to become…
Equipment / Other / Owners/service/other manual 16/11/2018 · 18V817000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Honda Civic Hatchback and Civic Type R vehicles. The owners guide in these vehicles may not have been included or if included, the owner's guide may not have been properly provided required…
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda…
Showing 5 of 6 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Common Questions — 2018 Honda Civic
Is the 2018 Honda Civic reliable?
We rate the 2018 Honda Civic's reliability 9.2/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2018 Honda Civic have?
6 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2018 Honda Civic worth buying?
It scores 8.1/10 overall, ranking #117 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 91% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2018 Honda Civic cost?
The 2018 Honda Civic starts at $20,459 and ranges up to $26,251 across trims (MSRP when new). At 27 MPG, expect roughly $1,944/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Honda Civic
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More Honda Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Honda models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year