Motoring

Too low for you, uncle? – Daniel Fernandez

Honda Civic drive review: is it still a segment leader?

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 10 Nov 2020 10:18AM

Too low for you, uncle? – Daniel Fernandez — The face-lifted 2020 Civic. – Pic courtesy of Daniel Fernandez, November 10, 2020

THE very first Honda Civic was launched in the early 1972, it propelled Honda into becoming a truly global car company, taking a market lead with a model that was quickly dubbed, ‘right car, right time’. Back then, Honda was most famous for its motorcycles.

So we come now to our test drive. The revised Honda Civic. This is the 10th generation Civic and yes there have been ten models since 1972 and this 10th generation Civic first appeared in Malaysia in October 2015 and was in showrooms by early 2016 priced from RM113,800 for the 1.8L version to RM135,800 for the 1.5 VTEC Turbo Premium version. Then in February 2020, this face-lifted Civic arrived.

Safety

The latest version of the Honda Civic is offered with the full suite of 8 Honda Sensing advanced safety features. This revised Civic also comes with Honda LaneWatch, Honda’s camera-based safety technology that supplements the side mirror and enhances the side view while reducing blind spot for safer changing of lanes. It is also the only and first model in the segment to offer this innovative feature. All variants of this Civic are equipped with top class safety features such as six airbags, vehicle stability assist (VSA), agile handle assist (AHA), hill start assist (HSA), emergency stop signal (ESS), anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake assist (BA), auto brake hold (ABH), new front sensors and rear seat Isofix.

Slick leather accents. – Pic courtesy of Daniel Fernandez

Looks

Exterior-wise, this Civic is further refined to enhance its fastback styling charm. It comes with a new front bumper with black grille which delivers a bolder look while the new rear bumper garnish and new rear boot-lid spoiler exudes a stylish appearance. Also the new 18-inch black alloy wheels completes its overall low and wide stance, giving it dynamic presence.

Engine

Powered by a 1.5L VTEC Turbocharged engine, this Civic offers maximum power output of 173PS and maximum torque of 220Nm, equivalent to a 2.4L engine performance. There is also a 1.8L i-VTEC engine which produces 141PS and 174Nm of torque. Both engines are energy efficient vehicle (EEV) certified.

Fastback styling charm and 18" black alloy wheels give it dynamic presence. – Pic courtesy of Daniel Fernandez

Drive

Ignite the engine and it's whisper quiet in the cabin. Honda insulation is on par with its executive rivals. The driver's seat is comfortable and the rear passengers get good leg and hip room as this car is not only long, it is wide. Yes, this Civic is as large as the 2003 Honda Accord. At the back there is a good sizable luggage room for long weekend family drives.

This is Honda’s return to turbocharging and it is done with enough power to entertain in city commuting. On the open highway it is quick to gather pace, however, it does start running out of breath when you go past 160km/h as it is still a 1.5L engine and with a large body.

Good leg and hip room for passengers. – Pic courtesy of Daniel Fernandez

Running up a steep hill is easily done as the 220Nm of torque comes in early from 1,700rpm. Steering inputs are good and there is a nice feel across your palm while in control. Cabin fit and finish is decent and offers all the features that the new generation of buyer wants.

Our only little gripe was the ride height and roof height of this Civic, which is lower than the previous Civic models. Yes, it is sporty and younger drivers will love it, but mature drivers will find the roof height and the low seating position an issue with bad backs and creaking bones. This is a younger generation Civic and the mature car buyer should look at the new City or wait for the 2021 Honda Jazz to arrive. – The Vibes, November 10, 2020