Now that we're back inside, the piece de resistance is
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| Civic's bright speedometer should help the police with any inquiries they might have... (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
the two-tier dashboard. This blue glowing futuristic cockpit is not only stunning to look at but also practical. Right in your line of sight is a digital blue speed readout. Actually, the numerals are so large that I bet the car traveling beside you could even read how fast you're going. Flanked on either side of the speedometer are secondary instruments, including an engine temperature gauge and a fuel indicator, all very easy to see. Then just below this on the second level is a blue-hued tachometer and digital information readout.
The chubby tilt/telescope two spoke steering wheel was comfortable to hold on easy to see around when gazing at the instrument cluster. The sound system is also adequate for the price, but nothing to rave about. All models
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| All models come with a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system that's also MP3/WMA compatible. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
come with a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system that's also MP3/WMA compatible; the EX adds an extra two speakers to the mix. In the usual Honda fashion, interior plastics, materials and buttons are excellent. You will find large cupholders, a big glove compartment, map pockets and many other useful cubbies. Also, not one but two power outlets are part of the standard package.
All in all, the new Civic is simply brilliant. It is more fun to drive than the old one, thanks to its extra zip and better handling. The ride is smooth and stable too. Even more important to many, the Civic is a joy at the pump with even greater fuel efficiency. Honda has included all the little extras as well, like ABS brakes, side-curtain airbags, keyless entry, etc. on all its models, and
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| All these top-tier features, high quality and good expected reliability, plus it's stylish too. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
critical in this compact segment, if its predecessors are any indication it will give years of great service with a strong resale value when it's time to trade in or sell. For the price you can't go wrong. And what's that price? I drove the DX-G which has a sticker price of $18,880, and it came with most of the bells and whistles. Base models start at $16,800, which is a little higher than some of its competitors, but once again, you'll get this back when it's time to resell, not to mention every time you get in your car and enjoy its higher quality. With traits like these, the Honda's customers may give the new Civic its best award yet... by making it Canada's best seller once again.
Specifications (Civic Sedan DX-G):
- Price Range (Civic Sedan DX-G MSRP): $18,880 - $20,080
- Price as Tested (MSRP): $18,880
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Engine: 140 hp, 128 lb-ft of torque, 1.8L, 16-valve SOHC I-4
- Transmission: 5-spd manual
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum, ABS, EBD
- Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,489 / 1,752 / 1,435 / 2,700 mm (176.7 / 69.0 / 56.5 / 106.3 in)
- Curb Weight: 1,210 kg (2668 lbs)
- Tires: 195/65R15
- Capacity (trunk): 340 L (12.0 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 7.8 / 5.7 L/100 km
- Observed Fuel Economy: 7.6 L/100 km
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Competitors: Chevrolet Cobalt / Optra5, Dodge Caliber, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Optra / Optra5, Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra / Versa, Pontiac Pursuit, Saturn ION, Subaru Impreza, Suzuki Aerio, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf / Jetta
- Website: www.honda.ca
