Honda Civic 2006 Review

Honda had better be careful though, the new Civic is larger than previous model rivalling the stylish Accord Euro in dimensions and even though it has a 1.8-litre or 2.0-litre engine compared to the Euro's 2.4 why would a buyer spend $10,000 or more on the Euro when the Civic is nearly as good and costs less to run?

It's a good problem for Honda to have and is great for consumers who can tap into Honda technology for as little as $20,990.

The Civic VTi-L costs $24,490 with a five speed auto adding about $2000.

• Styling shares a lot with Accord Euro - modern, sporty, attractive and practical.

   
• Interior is roomy offering accommodation for five. Impressive rear seat legroom.

   

• Boot is large, easy to load/unload.

   

• Interior styling is modern and chic with a little too much hard plastic but different colours and textures lift the appearance.

   

• Love positioning of handbrake, speedo, switches, gearshift.

   

• Steering wheel is one of the best in the business – has squared off shape.

   

• Full size spare, big tick.

   

• Heavier than previous model – up around 200kg but returns 7.2/litres/100km average in auto.

   

• Performance from 1.8-litre, SOHC engine is good – 103kw/174Nm output and it's a low emission engine (LEV).

   

• Has 15in alloys, climate control air and cruise control as standard.

   

• Ride and handling are competent, safe, a little sporty from double wishbone suspension and strong chassis.

   

• Impressive safety credentials, scores ABS, four air bags, fire retardant interior, five three point seat belts.

   

• Interior has airy feel, functional, modern, good to travel in.

Verdict:

Is this the king of the small cars? A difficult decision between Civic, Mazda3 and Ford Focus. Toss a coin, go on the styling.