Originally introduced as a 1973 model, in 1972, the Honda Civic skyrocketed to popularity, here in the United States. Today, it remains one of Honda's flagship models, and an industry standard in its segment. We here at Tracy Honda love the Honda Civic, so we could hardly contain our excitement when we heard that this year, Honda is offering more Civic variants than ever before.

Specifically, Honda is offering seven different versions of the Civic. That is quite a wide variety to find heading to our lot at 3450 Auto Plaza Way Tracy, CA 95304, so we thought we would take some time to go over them with you.

First off, we have the basic 2012 Honda Civic Sedan. It remains the same Civic we have all loved for years, and it is an IIHS Top Safety Pick. It does however manage to feature an improved fuel economy, rated at 39 mpg highway. With its five-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission, the 1.8-liter, 16-valve, SOHC i-VTEC-engine packs in an impressive 140-hp.

Moving right along, we'll find the 2012 Honda Civic Coupe. It takes everything we love about the sedan variant then adds a few new exterior color options, a sportier physique, and a five speed automatic transmission. Need we say more?

Stepping things up a bit, we'll find the 2012 Honda Civic Si Sedan. It features a redesigned body and 17-inch alloy wheels. With its 31 mpg highway, the Civic Si's 2.4-liter, 16-valave, DOHC iVTEC engine pumps out 22 percent more torque than previous generations. Of course, the Si also comes with a six-speed manual transmission and helical limited-slip differential for ultimate handling and control. Inside, drivers will find a refined interior, accented with a red-glow instrument panel and improved sequential rev-limit indicator.

As for the 2012 Honda Civic Si Coupe? It is along the same lines as the Civic Coupe. It is everything we love, in a smaller package. Who wouldn't love that?

Four down, three more to go. Keeping the pace steady, we have the 2012 Honda Civic HF, with its sleek design, aerodynamic decklid spoiler, and distinctive alloy wheels fitted with fuel-economy-optimizing, low-rolling tires. It features a 1.8-liter, 16-valve, SOHC i-VTEC-engine that unleashes 140 ponies under the hood. This can be paired with either a five-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission for an estimated 39 mpg on the highway.

Then we have the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid. This is one hybrid that is every bit as stylish that it is fuel efficient. It stands apart from other hybrids with its luring, aerodynamic design with an irresistible body-colored grill. Factor in that it features Integrated Motor Assist, a Continuously variable transmission (CVT), and features an overall lower weight, and you're beginning to see why this is such a popular hybrid model. All of this comes with an estimated 44 mpg on the highway.

Finally, we have the 2012 Honda Civic GX Natural Gas for those of you who are looking for a truly alternative fuel vehicle. The 2012 Civic GX takes everything that is great about the Civic, and powers it with compressed natural gas. Producing nearly zero emissions, the Civic GX is granted access in HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) highway lanes in many states as a reward.

With seven new Civic models, we made sure to outline the differences between the models. But, we didn't clarify what they all have in common... well aside from the fact that they are all Civics. Every model in the 2012 Civic lineup features a new intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID), Bluetooth and hands-free (standard only on higher level trims), Eco-Assist and ECON button (for maximizing fuel efficiency and conserving power), Vehicle Stability Assist, Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, and tire-pressure monitoring systems.

But, in the end, we realize that not every consumer is looking for a new Honda Civic. That is why we carry a large selection of new Honda models at Tracy Honda. If you'd like to learn more about specfic models, like the Honda CR-Z or Accord Crosstour, make sure to fill out a contact form online or to call us at 877-369-7470 to arrange a test drive. And, once here, we'll make sure to show you our amazing selection of used cars from top automakers, as well as our dedicated service department.