2004 Honda Civic Si-G Coupe Road Test

Visibility out the rear wasn't optimal, made worse by the inclusion of my test Si coupe's Group Option Package (GOP), which in-turn meant that there was a rear

The Group Option Package adds an assortment of goodies to the Si, including a rear decklid spoiler, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a carbon fiber look instrument panel with center console. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

trunklid spoiler. Also, the rear decklid is angled upwards making it harder to parallel park or back up than others in its class. The rear wing wasn't too much of a hindrance though, but it didn't help visibility either.

Other goodies included in the GOP are a 4-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a carbon fiber look instrument panel with centre console, and 4-wheel ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) coupled with the standard 4-wheel disc

Although not packing the highest horsepower in its class, the Civic easily makes up for it in legendary reliability, performance and stability. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

brakes. Base price of the Civic Si coupe starts at $21, 810, but with the group option package starts at $23, 310 and extra $1,500.

Standard features in the Si-G included cruise control, cupholders, keyless entry remote, power door locks and windows, air conditioning, power moonroof with privacy glass and sunshade, AM/FM/ stereo with CD player and 6 speakers and then some. Standard safety features include driver and passenger dual stage, dual threshold airbags (SRS) and immobilizer.

Although the Civic is a little underpowered and "under-rubbered" in comparison to most its competitors, it's legendary reliability, performance and stability speak for itself, perhaps that's why everyone and their dog has owned, owns or will one day own a Honda Civic.