2022 Honda Civic: Nominee

The Honda Civic has been a perennial favorite, not just of our editors but of the world in general. A Civic says that you want a dash of fun-to-drive experience with your daily commute — that of course you care about efficiency and technology, but there’s more to your automotive desires than just basic transportation. The redesigned 2022 Civic builds upon the things that have always made Civics fantastic: It’s responsive and beautifully tuned, providing an excellent driving experience. The Civic displays a chassis sophistication and such an amazing balance between ride quality (on the firm side, but well controlled) and handling (responsive, tight and very entertaining) that it feels like it’s in a class above the compact commuter sedan category.

The new Civic has a choice of two powertrains: a standard 158-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder or the one you really want, an optional 180-hp, turbocharged 1.5-liter four, both mated to a standard continuously variable automatic transmission (a manual is optional on the Civic hatchback). The latest model grows up a bit style-wise, adopting the more adult exterior look of the larger Accord, but the spacious cabin takes an almost retro inspiration with some neat details on the dash and doors, plus a glorious lack of the touch-sensitive buttons that plague so many vehicles nowadays (including some Hondas). The multimedia system has a volume knob and the gear select or is an old-school lever. The 2022 Civic is an excellent choice for people who resist such “advancements” of the day, as well as the SUV trend.