It might look radical, but the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid’s interior layout is extremely functional. Note the small front quarter windows, just like those in the Toyota Prius.

The 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid’s gauges are split between a digital display located at the base of the windshield and a traditional cluster viewed through the steering wheel. In the digital display, which acts much like a heads-up system, vehicle speed, remaining fuel, and instant fuel economy are shown. Average fuel economy is displayed in the lower binnacle next to the trip odometer and below a huge tachometer that no Civic Hybrid owner is every likely to consult. We’d prefer average fuel economy to be shown up top with other pertinent data.

Not shown in this photo is the optional navigation system with voice control, which works easily enough but groups the stereo and navigation functions together. Plus, it has small buttons, and sun glare has a detrimental effect on legibility. We prefer the standard knobs and buttons for the stereo, seen here, which work as simply as those for the heating and air conditioning.

Materials are tasteful and upscale for a small car, with plush fabric upholstery, a soft mesh headliner, and quality parts and panels with a refined look and feel.