What To Know
- In terms of power, the Civic’s turbocharged engine delivers a more spirited performance with 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the Lancer EX’s turbocharged engine produces 215 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque.
- However, the Civic’s naturally aspirated engine is more fuel-efficient, returning up to 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, compared to the Lancer EX’s 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- The Lancer EX, on the other hand, boasts a stiffer suspension and more precise steering, resulting in a more planted and stable ride.
In the realm of compact sedans, two names stand out as perennial contenders: the Honda Civic and the Mitsubishi Lancer EX. These vehicles have earned a reputation for reliability, efficiency, and sporty handling, making them favorites among car enthusiasts and daily commuters alike. But how do they compare head-to-head? In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll delve into the key aspects of the Honda Civic and Lancer EX to determine which one emerges as the superior choice.
Performance and Efficiency: A Close Contest
Under the hood, both the Civic and Lancer EX offer a range of engine options to suit different driving styles and needs. The Civic’s lineup includes a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder, while the Lancer EX features a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. In terms of power, the Civic’s turbocharged engine delivers a more spirited performance with 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the Lancer EX’s turbocharged engine produces 215 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque. However, the Civic’s naturally aspirated engine is more fuel-efficient, returning up to 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, compared to the Lancer EX’s 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Driving Dynamics: A Matter of Preference
When it comes to handling and driving dynamics, both the Civic and Lancer EX offer a sporty and engaging experience. The Civic’s lightweight construction and responsive steering provide nimble handling, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The Lancer EX, on the other hand, boasts a stiffer suspension and more precise steering, resulting in a more planted and stable ride. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences and driving style.
Interior Comfort and Features: A Battle of Amenities
Inside, the Civic and Lancer EX offer well-equipped cabins with a focus on comfort and convenience. The Civic’s interior features a clean and modern design, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Lancer EX, meanwhile, offers a more spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. In terms of features, both vehicles come standard with a range of amenities, including a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. However, the Civic offers a few more advanced features, such as a sunroof, heated seats, and a navigation system.
Safety and Reliability: A Tie for Excellence
When it comes to safety, both the Civic and Lancer EX have earned top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. In terms of reliability, both the Civic and Lancer EX have a reputation for being dependable and trouble-free. However, the Civic has a slight edge in this area, with fewer reported problems and a higher overall reliability rating.
Price and Value: A Question of Perspective
When it comes to pricing, the Honda Civic and Mitsubishi Lancer EX offer competitive options at different price points. The Civic starts at a lower MSRP than the Lancer EX, making it a more affordable choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Lancer EX offers more standard features and a more powerful engine at its base trim level. Ultimately, the better value depends on individual priorities and preferences.
Summary: A Choice Between Two Excellent Compact Sedans
In the end, the choice between the Honda Civic and Mitsubishi Lancer EX comes down to personal preferences and driving needs. The Civic offers a more fuel-efficient and affordable option with nimble handling and a comfortable interior. The Lancer EX, on the other hand, provides more power and a more spacious cabin, along with a sportier driving experience. Both vehicles excel in terms of safety and reliability, making them excellent choices in the compact sedan segment.
What You Need to Know
1. Which car has better fuel efficiency, the Honda Civic or Mitsubishi Lancer EX?
The Honda Civic offers better fuel efficiency than the Mitsubishi Lancer EX. The Civic’s naturally aspirated engine returns up to 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, while the Lancer EX’s naturally aspirated engine gets 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
2. Which car has more powerful engine options, the Honda Civic or Mitsubishi Lancer EX?
The Mitsubishi Lancer EX has more powerful engine options than the Honda Civic. The Lancer EX’s turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 215 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque, while the Civic’s turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
3. Which car has a more spacious interior, the Honda Civic or Mitsubishi Lancer EX?
The Mitsubishi Lancer EX has a more spacious interior than the Honda Civic. The Lancer EX offers more headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, as well as a larger trunk.