What does it cost?
For The Honda Civic has a huge boot and clever rear seats. The engines are strong, particularly the 1.6 diesel, which is also impressively clean.
Against The steering and ride are disappointing, while the refinement, headroom, visibility and dashboard layout are downright poor.
What Car? says
The Honda Civic has some good points, particularly the performance and economy of its small diesel engine. However, it disappoints in too many key areas to challenge the class leaders.
What Car? readers say
3.4
There are 19 Honda Civic versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
The 2.2-litre diesel is the trickiest engine to recommend, being both unrefined and pricey. However, the 1.6-litre diesel boosts the Civic’s appeal thanks to strong performance and very low emissions, which make it exempt from VED tax and the London Congestion Charge. It’s also more refined and has a more compliant ride.
Four trims are available, with T grades in between that add sat-nav, but we don’t see any point in going beyond the second rung on the ladder – ES – because this gives you climate control, a USB socket, cruise control, Bluetooth and a reversing camera. Avoid the stingy entry-level SE trim.
All Civics come with a three-year/90,000-mile warranty, while a six-year unlimited mileage warranty is available as a cost option.
Reader test team says:
Honda Civic Hatchback 1.6 i-DTEC EX 5dr
I had a 48 hour test drive of the car. The top spec EX gives you all the toys you could want and contrary to some of the reviews that I've read, I…
4
out of 5 stars
Honda Civic Hatchback 2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr
The more I drive this car the more I like it and I'm frankly baffled by some of What Car's star scores, especially the 1 star awarded for…
4
out of 5 stars
Honda Civic Hatchback 2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr
I've just purchased a 2.2 i-DTEC ES to replace my previous-shape 59-plate. The most noticeable difference is the vast improvement in ride quality,…
4
out of 5 stars
Honda Civic Hatchback 2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr
Test drove this car as a possible future replacement for my Honda Jazz. Personally I think the car looks good, especially in red, white or silver. The…
3
out of 5 stars
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Our pick of the range
Honda Civic Hatchback 1.6 i-DTEC ES 5dr
The best Civic in the range, and the only model that comes close to competing with more established rivals. This well equipped mid-spec car is the one to go for.
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