Honda Civic aei Best Engineered Vehicle 2006

With the eighth-generation model, the Civic has again re-established itself as the benchmark in its segment, setting new standards for safety, technology, and performance.

As with last year's winner of the Best Engineered Vehicle competition, the sixth-generation Chevrolet Corvette, AEI readers and editors rewarded the vehicle they thought provided the best value in its segment given the excellence of its underlying engineering fundamentals. We gave the Honda Civic glowing marks in most categories, with one reader citing many of the award's criteria including “interior accommodation, comfort, durability, economy of operation, environmental responsibility, handling and stability, manufacturing cost, quality and safety.”

“For its class, it has moved engineering along a huge way,” another reader wrote. “[The Civic has] one of the most innovative exteriors and interiors of any car, better ergonomics and space with similar exterior dimensions, and great engine options.” Another summed up the car, “Brilliant engineering, fantastic ergonomics, futuristic looks, and outstanding performance-all for a decent price.