Honda Civic

If you want a small hatch that stands out, the Civic is for you. More than two years after the launch, its space-age lines still look the part, and the interior is just as cutting-edge.

The cabin is spacious and flexible, with a clever folding rear seat that lets you make the most of the room available. Other elements could work better, though – for example, the attractive instrument panel is difficult to read.

The Honda is well equipped and has done well in Euro NCAP crash tests. But build issues affect some early cars.

History
The eighth-generation Civic arrived in September 2005, with three engine options. Entry-level cars had a 1.4-litre petrol engine (badged 1.4 DSi), while there was also a 1.8-litre VTEC unit. Diesel buyers could opt for Honda’s excellent all-alloy 2.2 i-CTDi.

From January 2006, a new Civic IMA hybrid was also sold, although it’s based on the Japan-only saloon.

A year later, a three-door hatch joined the Civic line-up. Called the Type S, it was offered with 1.8 petrol or 2.2-litre diesel powerplants. But the variant enthusiasts had been waiting for – the Type R – didn’t arrive until March 2007. It featured Honda’s fabu-lous 2.0-litre VTEC, delivering 198bhp.

What to look for
While the Civic is a family car, access to the back is poor, so make sure rear passengers will be comfortable in it before buying. The small back windows also limit visibility.

The rear suspension is more simple than on rivals, so if you’re used to a Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf, you won’t find the Honda as much fun to drive. Look out for tatty interiors on high-mileage or poorly looked after examples; scuffed trim and scratched paint are par for the course.

If you’re considering a car with the i-shift automated manual box, drive it first – it’s not as smooth as a normal auto. Finally, as the thin windscreen glass is part of the Civic’s structure, it can fracture on models that have been driven enthusiastically. Look for small cracks anywhere – they’ll soon grow.

Alternatives
If you want reliability and can live without driving fun, consider a Toyota Auris. Ford’s Focus is far more involving, while a Volkswagen Golf is worth a look if you can afford the premium price. Finally, check out the Mazda 3.

Links
Civic Info www.civinfo.com
Honda UK www.honda.co.uk/car

Civic Type R owners http: //civictype-r.co.uk
Club Civic www.clubcivic.com
Civic Land www.civicland.com