The outgoing Honda Civic was Edmunds' favorite small sedan from the moment it debuted until the last one rolled off the production line in Ohio. While that meant Honda had a good basis to start with, any alterations risked what made the Civic successful in the first place. But we're pleased that the new Civic matches or exceeds its predecessor and earns the Edmunds Top Rated Sedan award for 2022.

"Spacious, comfortable, entertaining, fuel-efficient and pretty good-looking too, the Honda Civic is a worthy winner of this award."

Honda didn't change the Civic's key attributes. The new Civic is still impressively comfortable and spacious, and the engines are much as they were before. The available turbocharged four-cylinder continues to be a standout, providing quick acceleration and high fuel economy for a small sedan. Around turns, the Civic is sporty and entertaining to drive.

The most welcome change, albeit a subjective one, is the new Civic's styling. The exterior design no longer has the fake vents and other clutter that could make the previous car look overstyled. The interior, too, features a cleaner and more premium-looking design. The list of available technology features also grows, including a wireless smartphone charging pad and a large 9-inch center touchscreen.

Put it all together and you've got a new Civic that offers an outstanding mix of comfort, performance and refinement.