USED Honda Civic Hatchback (00 - 06)

My car

I bought the car as my first "real" car (previously driving the likes of a Fiat Panda, a Metro and a Hyundai Accent all from new) and went considerably on reviews in magazines.

Unfortunately, the dealer, the manufacturer and the car are a serious let down. The windscreen leaked, the instrument panel lights up like a Christmas tree when water gets in and the car intermittently pulls to the right without warning.

Honda themselves, without even looking at the car, have written to me to tell me there is nothing wrong with my car!

Honda deny the problem (and so do some dealers) and are rather snootily arrogant about their "reliable cars".

My car also also had an overly firm ride, poor quality interior plastics and "steaming" smelly air-conditioning (apparently normal!)

Don't believe the hype, they are overpriced, expensive to service and when I had a problem Honda didn't seem to want to know!

There are plenty more, cheaper, more reliable cars, more considerate and helpful dealers out there.

Dealers should do more about checking cars thoroughly before delivery and thoroughly cleaning them might also help a little.

My car

Excellent car but unfortunately the suede / leather seats that come with the three-door sport are the most uncomfortable seats I have ever sat in, in any car.

My car

This car has to be driven enthusistically to get the best from it. The vtech cuts in at 5500rpm so you're probably going to have to watch the speed carefully when using it.

It has a great noise at the top end of the rev range and you can select any of the gears to put it in the power band at any time.

The ride is very positive, yes you can feel paint markings on the road, but the seats are excellent.

On a long journey the road noise and stiff suspension can be tiring.

I really like the understated styling and for the first year I've had it, there have been no problems with it at all.

Avereage fuel consumption 25mpg

My car

Very good motor, one of the best hot hatches. But if driven hard, it likes to drink - like any other motor would!!

Well worth the money, I'm yet to have a service though!!