What are the differences between the 2021 Civic sedan and hatchback?

[MariaFitz]

The difference between the Civic hatchback and sedan lies in their engines. Different engines: The hatchback Civic uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine; the sedan is equipped with both a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine. The hatchback version does not have the 1.0T variant, while the sedan version does. The hatchback model is more expensive than the sedan and comes with additional driver assistance systems. About the Civic: The Civic is a compact car under Honda, featuring two engine options: a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine and a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.

[PhoebeMarie]

I've driven both the 2021 Civic sedan and hatchback, with the main differences lying in space practicality. The hatchback features a liftback design with an astonishingly large trunk opening, making loading items extremely convenient—especially for strollers or bulky luggage. Its rear seats can be fully folded down, offering expandable space almost like a small van. The sedan's enclosed trunk provides better privacy but has a smaller opening, making it cumbersome to bend over for items. Dimension-wise, the hatchback is shorter, offering nimble city parking like a minnow, while the sedan's slightly longer body enhances highway stability. Driving feel is similar since both share the 1.5T engine and chassis, though the hatchback feels marginally sportier, suiting frequent travelers like me; the sedan leans more toward home comfort, ideal for commuting. Both average 6L/100km fuel consumption with comparable maintenance costs—just pick based on your lifestyle.

[Daniella]

I'm a car enthusiast, and the core difference between the two 2021 Civic models lies in their handling. The hatchback version has a stiffer suspension setup, delivering more direct and crisp steering response—it feels like you're racing on a track, with more aggressive power delivery that gives you a quicker start at traffic lights. Its exterior is sportier too, featuring blacked-out wheels and a small spoiler for a youthful, stylish look. The sedan, on the other hand, has smooth, rounded lines, prioritizing comfort and making it ideal for relaxed long-distance driving. Rear-seat space is similar, but the hatchback offers slightly more headroom. While its cargo area is smaller, it’s far more versatile. The hatchback’s high-end trim is a bit pricier, but it’s worth every penny. After extended driving, the hatchback feels more secure during high-speed cornering, while the sedan’s softer suspension is easier on your back.

[LolaLee]

As a budget-conscious buyer, I compared the cost differences between the 2021 Civic Sedan and Hatchback. The base price of the sedan is slightly lower, making it more affordable for entry-level buyers. The high-spec hatchback with a sports package costs a few thousand more but offers a trendier appearance, standard LED headlights, and 18-inch wheels. Both models have similar fuel consumption at around 6L/100km, and maintenance costs are comparable since they share the same 1.5T engine. Space is a key difference: the hatchback's foldable rear seats make it easy to load large items, while the sedan's trunk is deep and tidy, offering better privacy and the ability to carry long objects, though it's less flexible. Both models come with Honda Sensing as standard safety features, which are practical and worry-free. After test driving, I recommend the sedan for those on a tight budget, prioritizing practicality, while the hatchback is ideal for those with more money to spare, seeking a more distinctive style.