Interested in opinions.

Not counting the differences in the tax deduction for 2005 vs the tax credit for 2006, what are the thoughts on buying a 2005 'left over' vs the 2006.


I have an offer for a 2005 of $19,990., about a $1000 less than MSRP.

My thoughts, besides the price, are the new features on the 2006 and the greater power. With 2006 MSRP about $21,500(?), does anyone thing it's worth the difference from what we see so far about the $2006.

 

We are waiting on the 06. I dont like the idea of a CVT transmisson. But it appears to be the future ( cuss cuss cuss )

We are waiting for the reason, its another step forward in the tech. Not just the hybrid, but all the Civics. There is alot updated on the 06's. The hybrid A/C compressor is a major biggy for the Civic hybrid. New engine. Bigger electric motor. Better batterys. not to mention and new body style. Be it ugly. Its new. The low belt line with the crease is fugly as *ell. I cant wait to drive them all. We want the hybrid, but a Coupe would work also for our needs. And then theres the sinful, sexy Si. Its all good. 05 Civics, bye bye. Bring on the new.

 

My advice would be this: if you happen to be a relatively moderate or mellow driver, or you don't have a problem becoming one, then you can probably get a good deal and save some money by getting a 2005. And you will be pleased with the mileage.

E.g. I don't have a favorable commute (6 miles, lots of stops), but by just driving moderately (with the medium-slow pack, not granny-like), I'm getting 48+ in spring/summer/fall, and 45+ in winter.

If, however, you prefer driving a little more agressively, you should consider the 2006. The greater horsepower seems to provide a closer approximation of EPA mileage for this type of driver, as compared to the 2003-2005 model of the HCH.

There are other perks as well with the 2006: new body styling, 'creep' mode, navigational options. But if you don't mind driving a bit slower than the average Joe, then you might save a few grand on the older model.

 

Ditto on stylin' The choice is yours. If it's purely monetary, I'd say you'll be pleased with the 05. If you want incremental improvement in power and comfort, wait for the 06.

If I had it to do over again, I would have waited and gone for the 06. Our 05 isn't the most comfortable vehicle for a long trip.

Ah to have a choice again....

 

I am waiting for the 06. Can't have no AC running during auto-stop in Texas during the summer. It takes about 30 seconds for a car to heat up in the scorching sun.

Plus, there are no "left overs" in my area (although they can still order one and bring it to the dealer in about 2 weeks).

I personally like the look of the new civic, a departure from the old which was "okay" but not me.

 

I'm waiting for the '06, myself. Looks like it represents a quantum leap forward in safety, engineering, amenities (if not gas mileage). This is a car I've been waiting to trade in my current Accord for (I couldn't tolerate the 7th-gen Civic well, compared to the 6th-gen Accord).

I found out how the 'stealth mode' works, per Car&Driver - it'll engage between 10-30 mph, for 1-5min. Given that, what do you think can be done with that, outside of rush hour crawl, etc ?

 

10-30 is where I lose most of my mileage. To accelerate I have to go down to 20 or so MPG. Once I get to 30 I can get up over 40 an on to 60.

 

I wish I could get an 2005. My personality unfortunately dictates that I must have the latest and greatest! Seriously, being from Phoenix the A/C not running when the engine stops is unacceptable. Also, I really miss my Nav system from my Acura and the 2006 has it available. If I could, I'd take the cash and get the 2005.

On the other hand, we have a 2005 and love it. If you take off the ECON button, we don't find much of a hit in FE.

 

I'm glad I got my 05 when I did and love it. I do like the 06 and look forward to getting it when it is at the end of its life cycle - 5 years from now. I like getting the last year of a model because all of the bugs have been worked out and it has been refined. I don't need the latest and greatest, though the navigation system and the A/C running off the battery are real enticements! Hmm, we shall see.

 

Incentives to the dealers on the 05's helps with the price. In my case our dealer isnt a thug. So with the higher tax breaks fed. and state and there policy of $364 above invoice at our dealer the 06 wont really cost much more if any over a 05. We feel lucky to have a honest forth right dealer to buy Hondas from.