Launch Drive: New Honda Civic.

Stylish and trendy are not two words that comes to mind when you think of a Honda Civic. For different generations the nameplate can mean different things. The more advanced in age may think of the reliable Ballade they loved once upon a time. Whereas the younger folk may picture a sporty hatchback and things like VTEC technology. The new Honda and Civic can be called somewhat stylish and even trendy too.

Upon looking at the lines of the new Honda Civic, one gets the sense that the brand is trying to marry the two generations interests with the new car. On the one hand, you have a sedan that offers great amounts of space and practicality. On the other hand you have a sporty model that features a 1.5 litre VTEC turbocharged engine. How does all this work out?

Breakdown:

The new Civic has a choice of four models, Comfort, Elegance, Executive, and Sport. The Comfort and Elegance are softer in appearance and have normally aspirated 1.8-litre four-cylinder engines producing 104 kW and 174Nm.  The Sport is more noticeable as it has a stylish rear wing and larger wheels to match the aggressive body styling, whilst the Executive is premium in appearance. Powering the Sport and Executive is a 1.5 litre VTEC Turbocharged four cylinder that makes 127kW and 220Nm. All models in the new Civic range use a CVT gearbox that is surprisingly non-obtrusive and easy to work with.

How does it drive?

Comfortably. The most notable thing about being behind the wheel of the new Honda Civic is just how you never tire of the car. It is a vehicle that can be comfortably taken on a long trip. Even in the Sport model, it is less about performance and more about refinement. Yes, the performance is there but more for usability instead of excitement.

Verdict:  

Spending the day in the new Civic left us feeling confident that this 10th generation version will appeal to current Honda owners, as well as attract new customers. The segment this car operates in is one that is quite competitive. With its new design and modern technologies though, the new Civic may be able to hold its own. While it’s pricing for the top of the range Executive model may be a tough pill to swallow, the entry level Comfort model seems much more reachable for average buyers.

*For the full review of the new Honda Civic, catch our latest issue of TheMotorist Digital Magazine next month.

Pricing:

1.8 Comfort CVT – R330 000

1.8 Elegance CVT – R370 000

1.5T Sport CVT – R430 000

1.5T Executive CVT – R460 000