2005 Honda Civic Reverb Road Test

While visibility might be a weak point, it has plenty of strong standard features. The Reverb comes with

With all the added goodies, the Reverb still starts at a mere $19,100. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

a four-spoke urethane steering wheel which is mighty comfortable for the fingers, cup holders, keyless entry remote, power door locks, dual front airbags and centre console armrest with storage - all features that make driving the Civic a pleasure. But what's pleasure without fantastic fuel consumption? The Civic uses a mere 7.5L/100km in the city and 5.7L/100km on the highway.

The Reverb is not only a great-handling, fun-to-drive coupe, it's got the tunes and the skirts to liven up the generally plain-Jane-looking Civic persona. And it won't send reverberations to the pocketbook either; it starts at a mere $19,100.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $19,100- $20,195
• Body Type: 2-door coupe
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 115 hp, 110 lb-ft of torque, 1.7L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
• Transmission: 5-spd manual (opt 4-spd auto)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum
• Curb Weight: 1,140 kg (2,533 lb)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume: 365 L (12.9 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 7.5 / 5.7 L/100 km (31 / 45 mpg)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: ChevroletCobalt, Dodge SX 2.0, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra / Tiburon, Kia Spectra, Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Pontiac Pursuit, Saturn ION, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf / Jetta
• Web Site: www.honda.ca

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.