Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Honda Civic S
With an overall Carivo score of 8.2/10, the 2023 Honda Civic S earns a Recommended rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.4/10, while Performance at 6.8/10 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's reliability at 9.4/10 — among the strongest in our sedan database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a strength too — 8.6/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.8/10 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 7.5/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $27,831–$34,509, 32 MPG, seating 5, the Honda Civic S sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. The 8.3/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this sedan delivers more than most of the class. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2023 Honda Civic S 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 2023 Honda Civic S ranks #74 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 94% of the segment. Its 8.2/10 overall score is 0.7 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $27,831 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $27,664.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Civic S Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Honda Civic S scores 8.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 8.2 — and starts roughly $2,500 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
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2023 Honda Civic S
Is the 2023 Honda Civic S reliable?
We rate the 2023 Honda Civic S's reliability 9.4/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2023 Honda Civic S worth buying?
It scores 8.2/10 overall, ranking #74 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 94% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Honda Civic S cost?
The 2023 Honda Civic S starts at $27,831 and ranges up to $34,509 across trims (MSRP when new). At 32 MPG, expect roughly $1,641/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Civic S years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Civic S years we've rated are 2017 (7.9/10), 2016 (7.9/10), 2015 (7.9/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.4/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Honda Civic S
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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