And when you take a Golf GTI for a spin around the block, you’ll quickly grow fond of the prodigious low-RPM torque and instant blastoff capability of its 2.0-litre turbo engine; both are about as economical at the pump, while both require super unleaded fuel.
Which doesn’t mean the Type-S isn’t fun to drive. It’s always eager to please and begs to be hustled. The car handles nicely, with sharp turn-in and a well-balanced chassis. The ride is a little stiff, but not bone-jarring to the point where it becomes irritating. Zero to 100 km/h takes 7.9 seconds, and we averaged 9.5 L/100 km over the course of the week.
Inside, the CSX’s cockpit is virtually identical to the Civic’s. That’s basically not a bad thing, as the digital speedometer located at the base of the windshield is perfectly placed, and the switchgear is generally straightforward and feels solid.
There is ample room up front, and the car’s airy greenhouse contributes to a good outward visibility. The Type-S’ heated leather seats are generously bolstered and supportive. In back, shoulder room is tight for three, but otherwise, adults won’t complain, especially since the floor back there is completely flat.
Engine noise it something that you have to get used to, though. The high-output four doesn’t sound trashy, mind you, but at high-rpm levels, it’s a little noisy. You always hear the exhaust system humming. Some like it because it sounds sporty, some don’t.
Rivals include the 2011 Buick Regal ($31,990, 182 hp), the Mazda3 GT-E ($27,180, 167 hp), the Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 TSI Highline ($29,075, 200 hp) and the Volvo S40 2.4i ($28,995, 168 hp). You could also arguably add the BMW 323i ($34,900, 200 hp) and the Lexus IS 250 ($34,400, 204 hp).
However, none of the cars mentioned above is based on a lower-priced car like the CSX is. Will your neighbours be impressed because you bought an Acura, or will they congratulate you for buying an overpriced Civic.
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| The digital speedometer located at the base of the windshield is perfectly placed, and the switchgear is generally straightforward and feels solid. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
Which doesn’t mean the Type-S isn’t fun to drive. It’s always eager to please and begs to be hustled. The car handles nicely, with sharp turn-in and a well-balanced chassis. The ride is a little stiff, but not bone-jarring to the point where it becomes irritating. Zero to 100 km/h takes 7.9 seconds, and we averaged 9.5 L/100 km over the course of the week.
Inside, the CSX’s cockpit is virtually identical to the Civic’s. That’s basically not a bad thing, as the digital speedometer located at the base of the windshield is perfectly placed, and the switchgear is generally straightforward and feels solid.
There is ample room up front, and the car’s airy greenhouse contributes to a good outward visibility. The Type-S’ heated leather seats are generously bolstered and supportive. In back, shoulder room is tight for three, but otherwise, adults won’t complain, especially since the floor back there is completely flat.
Engine noise it something that you have to get used to, though. The high-output four doesn’t sound trashy, mind you, but at high-rpm levels, it’s a little noisy. You always hear the exhaust system humming. Some like it because it sounds sporty, some don’t.
Rivals include the 2011 Buick Regal ($31,990, 182 hp), the Mazda3 GT-E ($27,180, 167 hp), the Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 TSI Highline ($29,075, 200 hp) and the Volvo S40 2.4i ($28,995, 168 hp). You could also arguably add the BMW 323i ($34,900, 200 hp) and the Lexus IS 250 ($34,400, 204 hp).
However, none of the cars mentioned above is based on a lower-priced car like the CSX is. Will your neighbours be impressed because you bought an Acura, or will they congratulate you for buying an overpriced Civic.
 |
| The ride is a little stiff, but not bone-jarring to the point where it becomes irritating. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |