The Honda Civic is a compact car offered primarily as a sedan and a hatchback, not an SUV.
In this article we examine how the Civic is classified today, which body styles are available, and how it compares with Honda’s SUV models.
Body styles offered by the Civic
Historically, the Civic has appeared in multiple body configurations, but in the current generation the focus is on two: a four‑door sedan and a five‑door hatchback. In the United States, the current Civic lineup (since 2022) includes only the sedan and hatchback; a two‑door coupe was discontinued with the latest generation.
- Civic Sedan — a traditional four‑door compact car with a separate trunk.
- Civic Hatchback — a five‑door hatchback with a rear cargo opening.
- Note: Earlier generations offered a Civic Coupe; the current generation does not include a coupe in most markets.
Together, these options define the Civic’s current body style choices: practical daily driver with two distinct layouts, neither of which is an SUV.
Is the Civic an SUV? How it compares to Honda’s SUVs
Not exactly. SUVs are higher‑riding crossovers designed for more cargo versatility and higher ground clearance, while the Civic is built on a compact car platform focused on efficiency and daily usability.
- Honda’s SUV lineup includes the HR‑V and CR‑V, which are purposefully built as crossovers/SUVs with increased ride height and cargo space.
- The Civic’s design prioritizes on‑road handling, fuel efficiency, and lower overall mass compared with Honda’s SUV models.
For customers seeking more rugged utility, Honda’s SUV crossovers are the better fit, while the Civic remains a compact car option with strong everyday practicality.
Current Civic variants and performance
Beyond body style, the Civic family includes available trims and performance variants, none of which are SUVs.
- Civic Sedan and Civic Hatchback trims (e.g., LX, Sport, EX, EX‑L, Touring) with turbocharged or hybrid powertrains in different markets.
- Civic Si — a sportier, performance‑focused variant offered in some markets.
- Civic Type R — a high‑performance hatchback for enthusiasts.
- Hybrid variant available in some markets, delivering improved fuel economy.
These variants illustrate the Civic’s identity as a compact car line with performance and efficiency options, not as an SUV platform.
Bottom line
In short, the Honda Civic is a sedan or hatchback, not an SUV. If you need more cargo space or a higher ride height, Honda’s SUV models like the CR‑V and HR‑V are available alongside the Civic.
Summary
The Honda Civic remains a compact car sold as sedan and hatchback in today’s market. It is not an SUV, though Honda’s HR‑V and CR‑V provide traditional SUV options with greater ground clearance and cargo capacity. The Civic emphasizes efficiency, maneuverability, and, in its sportier variants, engaging driving dynamics rather than SUV utility.