Having won the SA Car of the Year in 2007, the front and looks could be mistaken for previous generations which was sold in SA five year’s ago. Now that’s history for Honda Civic aficionadas.
This ninth-generation new Civic Sedan five-speed is classier, though not too fancy.
Taken for the test drive, it shows what that badge stands for.
Modified with interior grayish leather and other usual features such as USB cable and iPod slots, comfort trim adds curtain airbags and heated side mirrors to the mix while the flagship elegance throws in 16-inch alloys, automatic climate control, multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, and Bluetooth cellphone connectivity.
The engine two-stage i-VTEC system produces respectable outputs of 92kW at 6500rpm and 151Nm at 4300rpm, which according to Honda, can expect a 0-100km/h sprint time of 9.6 seconds, a 200km/h top speed and average fuel consumption of 6.7 litres per 100km. Wow!
This manual five speed Civic, like the best of its rivals, show off a fully independent multi-link suspension set-up at the back in addition to a revised McPherson strut suspension at the front end.
Vast space offers more interior room despite the car’s length being reduced by 15mm and the wheelbase by 30mm. Luggage room is also up, from 389 litres to 440.
Rain, windy and chilly weather and all that matters, had no dire effect on the latest Civic Sedan. Having said that, one should consider going back to his/her roots to acquaint themselves with the history and the kind of impact Honda had on the masses. Then you’ll understand this new generation. Aha, well said.
One though, it does not warn you how many kilos one could drive, if shortage of petrol sign begins yelling. Stru. Will it be considered soon?
Talking of gas- for the uninitiated- petrol it behaved itself pretty well, having only filled up full tank until our destination: Bloemfontein.
This is because the 1.8-litre engine has been updated to reduce its fuel appetite.
Various price range of other models;
1.6 Comfort – R209 900
1.6 Comfort – R221 900
1.8 Comfort – R229 900
1.8 Comfort – R241 900
1.8 Elegance – R259 900
1.8 Elegance – R271 900
1.8 Executive – R269 900
1.8 Executive – R282 900
Prices include a five-year/90 000km service plan and three-year/100 000km warranty.
Verdict:
It is comfortable on the slippery roads and brakes are too perfect.
1-10 (Performance 6)
1-10 (Petrol 7)
