Honda Civic

How things can change! While the current Civic is uninspiring, the new car is the absolute opposite. With its head-turning looks, futuristic interior and host of stylish features, it should attract younger buyers and give the brand's image a real boost. We think the firm is ambitious in targeting BMW and Audi, but Vauxhall, Ford and VW should be worried. Traditionally, Hondas have boasted superb residual values, and if the Civic drives as well as it looks, this could be the new class leader.

The transition from show car to showroom is complete! When Honda's Civic concept stunned visitors at the Geneva exhibition in March, few believed the production version would be as radical. But, as these first official pictures prove, it will be virtually unchanged when it goes in sale in January.

With a public unveiling set for next month's Frankfurt Motor Show, Auto Express had exclusive early access to see what buyers can expect. In the metal, the Civic is a dramatic-looking family car - particularly when compared to its Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf and Vauxhall Astra rivals.

All the key features - such as the wedge-like profile, clear plastic grille, hidden rear door handles and triangular exhaust pipes - are present. Only the fussy rear end detracts from the design. Inside, the cabin matches the exterior for drama. A radical sweeping dash has two separate digital displays, one for the speedo and optional sat-nav unit, the other for a 'floating' rev counter. These are complemented by a red starter button and Volvo S60-style gearlever mounted on a circular metal ball. All the plastics are of a high quality.

And even though the newcomer is shorter and sleeker than the car it's set to replace, there's plenty of room inside, with a lower, fold-flat rear bench and improved load space. This means ample head and legroom, while the twin-floor-height boot is a class-leading 485 litres.

Equipment is improved, too, with air-con plus traction and stability control as standard. Top-spec models also get auto lights, wipers and DVD sat-nav. Safety kit includes electronic brakeforce distribution and side curtain airbags, while Honda is predicting a maximum five-star Euro NCAP crash rating. Handling-wise, the Civic is tipped to give the pace-setting Focus a fight. With new, quicker electric power-steering, a widened track and a lower centre of gravity, it should offer a sporty driving experience.

Petrol engines include an 82bhp 1.4-litre unit and a new 138bhp 1.8 VTEC. The 138bhp 2.2 i-CTDi diesel is capable of 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and 55mpg. All models get six-speed manual gearboxes, with a clutchless auto offered on petrol cars. A 60mpg 115bhp 1.4-litre IMA hybrid will be available later in 2006, when the four-door is launched.

With the dramatic leaps in style and spec, Honda is targeting BMW 1-Series and Audi A3 buyers, as well as VW and Ford owners. Consequently, the Civic will cost more than at present, with an estimated £1,500-£2,000 model-for-model increase - which should mean a price range of £13,000-£17,000.