Honda Civic Review & Road Test

Review by www.new-car-reviews.co.uk

Drivers
All of the Honda Civic's petrol engines use VTEC variable valve timing to squeeze out optimal performance. The result is that all the engines are very smooth and deliver strong output across the rev range. Engine noise is also minimal, apart from the Type-R, which needs to be revved hard to deliver real punch. As you would expect from its 'mini people carrier' positioning, the base Honda Civic's ride is more suited to the school run than thrashing around country lanes. The Civic soaks up bumps effectively but handling is a little compromised on corners where body roll can become obvious. Steering is light, although feedback is a little limited and visibility is excellent because of the cars height. Once you get use to the dash mounted gear-stick, the Honda Civic makes an excellent choice stress free driving. The Honda Civics' cabin is a masterpiece of ergonomics with everything in its place with controls that feel solid to touch. The only downside of the cabin is that it is a little lacklustre.

Passengers
Once again it is the Honda Civic's remarkable space that stands out, there is ample head and legroom for passengers in the front and rear. Two adults have plenty of space in the rear of the Civic and three adults can be accommodated more effectively than its competitors due to the flat floor. The Honda Civic is generally refined although engine noise is audible when engines are pushed. Surprisingly for a relatively tall car wind noise is also limited.

Practicality
The Honda Civic has a very spacious boot for its class, the flexibility of which is increased further through split folding rear seats.

Equipment
This is another area where the Honda Civic outshines its rivals, all models are equipped with ABS, electric front windows, remote central locking and on most models air conditioning and a CD player.

Safety & Security
The Honda Civic is one of a very few cars that has been designed for pedestrian as well as passenger safety. Consequently the Civic scores an outstanding fours stars on the NCAP crash tests and three stars on the pedestrian safety score. The Honda Civic comes with front and side airbags, deadlocks and an immobiliser are also fitted as standard on all cars.

Quality & Reliability Although not quite a match for VW in terms of materials, the Civic cabin is very well constructed and Honda has an excellent reputation for long term durability - the Civic looks and feels like it will continue this tradition. Honda's confidence in the quality of its cars is underlined by its 3-year/ 90,000-mile warranty.

Owning
Honda has a reputation for solid engineering and consequently the Civic has low depreciation rates. Insurance also tends to be low (apart from Type-R) and the engines are all relatively economical to run.

Review ©2006 New-car-reviews.co.uk