Civics have long offered a better ride and handling compromise than the compact norm. Still, some bumps register through suspension and steering and I could feel some fidgeting on rough freeway patches, though not uncomfortably so. As with other Civics, the Hybrid remains relatively flat through corners increasing the sense of control on the road.
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| Understeer and body roll remind you that the Civic is definitely not a sports car, having been designed for commuting on weekdays and hauling family and friends the rest of the time. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
There are a couple things to watch for that could otherwise make a fun drive a little anticlimactic. Push it hard as I did on a long, uphill, and consequently downhill, mountain traverse and body lean increases noticeably. Understeer has been dialed in to increase at-the-limit safety, with the tendency to plow through the corner rather than allow the back end to spin being preferred by the non-profession drivers who will make up the majority of Hybrid sales. This in mind I was quickly reminded that the Civic is a family car and not a sports car, and with that, has its limits.
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| A noticeable difference between the standard and hybrid versions of the Civic is when loaded the Hybrid has some difficulty tackling hills. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The Hybrid also gives something away during acceleration when compared to a conventional Civic. When driving alone along the twisting Sea to Sky highway towards Whistler, BC, I didn't immediately notice the difference. However, add a couple of friends or children to the equation the Hybrid demands more advance planning when passing. If you live in hilly area, the right hand lane will be your best bet - that is if you don't want to attract an ugly glare from the sports car kissing your bumper.
Something that one of my passengers pointed out was quite interesting. Those in the back sit theater-style, higher than those in front, thus providing a better view forward. And by the way, his 6-foot frame fit in just fine as long as I didn't leave him back there for longer than two hours at a time. This in mind there are three seat belts in the back, but unless kids are your only rear passengers, or it's an extremely short trip, two adult passengers is enough. And there is no feeling of claustrophobia with plenty of headroom in the front and back seats. Great Grandma and Grandpa can even wear their hats, sitting comfortably without worrying about scrunching the tops.