Fans of the Civic

Popularity does not always equal quality when it comes to cars. With this sentiment in mind, Consumer Reports has compiled a list of the top five trendy models that car buyers should avoid. Although these five vehicles are perennial favorites amongst shoppers, Consumer Reports indicates that each performed poorly in their testing and possess below average reliability. Additionally, the popular publication contends that there are much better alternatives available to prospective buyers.

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Despite being one of America’s best-selling cars, the latest Honda Civic model leads Consumer Reports’ list. While Consumer Reports does give Honda credit for the Civic’s rich history, the site takes the automaker to task for its 2012 redesign of the Civic. In particular, Honda took “too many shortcuts,” according to Consumer Reports. So what’s the end result? Consumer Reports argues that the new Civic possesses mediocre interior quality, imprecise steering, and an uneven ride. Buyers interesting in a compact sedan should opt for the Subaru Impreza, Hyundai Elantra or the Mazda3, according to Consumer Reports.

While many automobiles have lost their appeal or their manufacturer simply stopped producing them, the Honda Civic has grown in popularity. When it hit the highways, the Civic was a basic, fundamental vehicle that featured high gas mileage at an economical price. Honda upgraded its interior and its performance as the Civic’s reputation grew. In recent years, the Civic has grown to the popularity the Accord achieved during the 1970s. Although the Civic may not be an actual sports car, it has attained wide allure among sporty import automobile enthusiasts.

Today, Honda's lineup runs the gamut. Included are fuel-sipping hybrids, a spacious minivan, reliable family sedans, practical SUVs and even a pickup. Although the latest Civic and Accord aren't quite the benchmarks they once were for their respective classes, Honda's brand as a whole continues to be one of the most well respected in the industry, with millions of loyal and satisfied customers.