Premium Hatch
Honda’s touting the current 10th generation of their best-selling car of all-time as the greatest one ever. It would be very difficult to argue that on a number of levels. The new Civic holds a most complete wide-ranging lineup of versions, it is immensely practical, frugal and good to live with. It is affordable and generally speaking, entertaining to drive as well.
Is there anything wrong with the car then? Short of its exterior styling, the Civic truly does do everything well. The cabin is a highlight with its roomy front and rear quarters, comfortable and generous seats and best of all, large easily-accessible boot. Some interior elements, the volume-know-less touchscreen display for example, could use a dose of reality. Otherwise, it’s nearly perfect.
The drive is just as good too. I may find the 6-speed manual’s shift-lever and clutch pedal to be overly-light but that’s personal thing perhaps – I like a little less assistance and more physical feedback. The turbocharged 1.5-litre is entertaining thanks to its 167 lb.-ft. of torque from as little as 1,800 rpm. The car is barely quick but it’s got heart where it counts.
As a daily driver, the Civic hatchback’s ideal. Steering is weighty but not overly so and the brakes are plenty strong. The chassis’ tuning is superlatively suited to city streets and busy highways. It also feels quite at home in the country.
The hatchback’s sole drawback could be that it’s no longer the affordable Civic. This was Honda’s plan as it loaded up even the base LX trim with HondaLink, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated front seats, plenty of safety features and the aforementioned 1.5T.
As tested, my 2017 LX 6-speed retails for $21,490. The 2018s are out and about and require an extra $200.
