Jonathan Weiss/Shutterstock has captured the essence of Honda's automotive legacy. The Civic, arguably the most successful vehicle in Honda's 80+ year history, has sold over 27 million units across 170 countries since its 1972 launch. Starting as a Japanese hatchback with a 1.2-liter engine, it has evolved into one of the most common cars on the road today. After 11 generations, the Honda Civic family now includes the Civic Sedan, Civic Sedan Hybrid, Civic Hatchback, Civic Hatchback Hybrid, Civic Si Sedan, and Civic Type R.

Though the popularity and practicality of the Honda Civic are undeniable, there are those who seek alternative options.

1. Honda Accord

Since its debut four years after the Civic in 1976, the Honda Accord has been a fierce competitor. It has been Honda's most successful car in America for the last 50 years and has made Car and Driver's 10Best list 38 times, with an unprecedented 26 consecutive years on the list. In a head-to-head comparison, U.S. News & World Report found that the 2024 Honda Accord had more comfortable seating than the Civic. People in the back of a Civic feel "slightly more constrained," while the Accord "provides plenty of room for adults to stretch out in either row." The Civic family has an average MSRP of $30,990, while the Accord lineup has an average price tag of $33,687. Despite the higher cost, the Accord offers more space, making it a good alternate choice.The interior of the Accord is slightly better than the Civic's. It provides a more comfortable driving experience, especially for those in the back seat. The Accord's design and features make it a popular choice among consumers who value space and comfort.

2. Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is another worthy alternative. With over 15.3 million units sold from 1967 to August 2024, it is Hyundai's best-selling car of all time. The 2025 Hyundai Elantra starts at $21,875, over $2,000 cheaper than the basic Honda Civic. In terms of gas mileage, the Elantra gets up to 41 miles per gallon on the highway, which is as good or better than four of the six Civic models. Only the hybrid variants beat it.The Elantra's interior also offers some advantages. Its infotainment screens range from 9.0 inches to 10.3 inches, while the Civic's screen maxes out at 9 inches. It comes with wireless smartphone charging ports and satellite radio. Both cars offer similar Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, but the Elantra has digital smart keys via your smartphone that can be shared with other drivers. From a technology, pricing, and gas mileage standpoint, the Hyundai Elantra is a strong contender.

3. Toyota Corolla

With over 50 million units sold as of 2021, the Toyota Corolla is not only a good alternative to the Honda Civic but the best-selling car of all time. The 2025 Corolla starts at $22,175, roughly $2,000 cheaper than the 2025 Honda Civic. According to Edmunds, the Corolla's average paid price at the dealership is over $2,100 less than the Civic's.The Corolla's gas mileage is similar to the Civic's, getting an estimated 41 miles per gallon on the highway. It also provides slightly more power for daily driving than the standard Civic. The 2025 Honda Civic Sedan (non-hybrid) has 150-horsepower, while all three versions of the 2025 Toyota Corolla Hatchback have 169-horsepower. Although U.S. News & World Report gave the 2025 Civic a higher overall score, the lower price tag, higher horsepower, and similar gas mileage make the Corolla an ideal alternate choice.These three alternatives - the Honda Accord, Hyundai Elantra, and Toyota Corolla - offer different features and benefits, providing consumers with a range of options to suit their needs and preferences. Whether it's space, pricing, gas mileage, or personal preference, there is a vehicle out there that can meet your requirements.