Honda Civic

Currently available only in three-door form, the newcomer is fitted out with Type R-style headlights, multi-spoke alloy wheels and an aggressive bodykit. Stylists have also added front and rear spoilers, as well as new bumpers and side skirts. As a result, the hot-looking Civic oozes the road presence once reserved for the range's high-performance flagship.

Honda Racing badges complete the look, distinguishing the Sport from its stablemates and adding a touch of exclusivity. Swing open the driver's door and it's clear the same amount of effort has been made inside. Our test model came with part-leather sports seats, an aluminium-look centre console and white Type R-style instrumentation. A chunky steering wheel had been fitted, as well as a new gearknob.

To reduce weight and cut costs, a space saver has replaced the traditional full-size spare wheel. Honda's Civic Sport range actually kicks off with an entry-level 1.4-litre model, which is priced from only ί¿½11,950. However, our early drive focuses on the performance-oriented ί¿½14,990 1.6-litre machine.

With only 110bhp and a 0-60mph sprint time of 10.4 seconds, the 1.6 Sport obviously lacks the pace of its intended rivals. But the four-cylinder unit loves to be revved, rewarding drivers with an even power band and sharp throttle response. Coupled to a slick-shifting five-speed gearbox, this makes for rapid progress on windy roads.

The supple chassis provides a surprising amount of grip, and there's no shortage of stability over uneven surfaces, either, despite the fact that the 15-inch wheels wear lower profile tyres than the standard Civic. Although the Sport is prone to spin an inside wheel if you accelerate too sharply out of demanding corners, it resists understeer with real determination.

As with any good driver's car, it's easy to feel involved with this Honda. The thick-rimmed leather steering wheel is far more substantial than the plastic one it replaces, and because it is slightly smaller, it makes the power- assisted system more direct. Although feedback is still lacking on bumpy roads, drivers will find the Sport more responsive, which boosts confidence. The brakes are perhaps the most impressive part of the whole package, as they offer plenty of bite and no shortage of feel. Capable of pulling the car up from speed without showing the slightest sign of fade, they are every bit as powerful as the anchors fitted to more expensive rivals.

Our first taste of Honda's hottish Civic has certainly left us impressed. With this in mind, it's no surprise that the firm's engineers are developing sister cars for the new Sport. Although full details about the British-built range have yet to be confirmed, we can reveal that plans are in place to introduce engine and suspension upgrades to other three and five-door Civics very soon. And based on the appeal of this first effort, we can't wait to try more!