Honda Civic 2011 review

What is it?

This is the Brit'-built Honda Civic hatch, much more handsome than the "nanna" sedan we also get here. It's recently been value added in an attempt to attract buyers but remains a $30K proposition start price in a market that says it should be $25K. Honda Australia has sweetened the deal with extra kit like rear park sensors, climate control, multi trip computer, auto headlightsand wipers, and a style tweak from Civic Type R.

How much?

The six-speed manual test car goes for $29,990 plus on roads. Five-speed auto is more, metallic paint is more and leather is more. Pay up to $35K plus on roads for a small, 1.8-litre hatch ... ouch.

What are the competitors?

What's under the bonnet?

Runs a 1.8-litre, SINGLE CAM, petrol four cylinder with variable valve timing. Bit of a blast from the past with only one camshaft.

How does it go?

Pretty good actually, better with the revs up. Can fall into a torque hole if you are careless but the close-ratio six-speed box masks deficiencies. Generates a fair old din at highway speeds. Need to slip it back a few cogs to overtake quickly. Excellent gearshift, undoubted reliability.

Is it economical?

Claimed 5.7-litres/100km. We achieved 6.5 with relative ease and it runs on 91 RON so there are savings there.

Is it 'Green'?

Possibly due to the low fuel use and linked low carbon dioxide emissions. Probably has green manufacturing credentials _ paint, recyclability, low tox' materials.

Is it safe?

Gets a five star ANCAP  rating with the recent update.

Is it comfortable?

Pretty good. No lumbar support adjustment is a pain in the back, protruding dash on driver's side door, driving position is good, relatively little road or wind noise penetration, decent array of luxury goodies (to offset the price).

What's it like to drive?

Mixed bag. Has great steering and slick sporty gearchange and sporty overall feel to the dynamics but it doesn't have enough oomph to capitalise. Average performance but looks like a hot hatch. Bit disappointing. Audio is good, has good connectivity (no audio streaming), Bluetooth phone connect is a bonus. Amazing how Honda can get such a good result from simple Macpherson strut front and elementary beam axle rear suspension.

Is it value for money?

Not really.

Would we buy one?

No, would buy the 2.0-litre Mitsu' Lancer SX hatch for $21K drive away including fixed price servicing.