Reaching showrooms with some big advancements compared to its predecessor
Experience the new Civic for yourself, with an e:HEV powertrain you’ll notice instant acceleration and a new sense of connection with every twist and turn.
What is it?
It’s been a remarkable 50 years and 11 generations since the Honda Civic originally made its debut. A lot has changed in that time, but Honda has always managed to keep the model relevant.
That’s true of this latest new-generation Civic, which is reaching showrooms with some big advancements compared to its predecessor? But in a particularly crowded field, does it have what it takes to stand out?
What’s new?
Though the Civic might not look dramatically different to its predecessor at first. Honda has made a vast number of other changes to it. Key to this lies in what’s under the bonnet – a new hybrid system that makes this the first time there’s been an electrified Civic. It’s also the final piece of Honda’s electrification puzzle, with every model the brand sells in Europe now being an EV or hybrid. Other key changes include a new touchscreen system and a generally more premium-feeling interior than the outgoing Civic.
What’s under the bonnet?
Though the previous Civic was offered with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, this new Civic is hybrid-only. Under the bonnet lies a new powertrain that pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engineer with two small electric motors for a combined 181bhp and 315Nm of torque. It makes it brisker than the previous Civic, with 0-60mph taking 7.9 seconds. That hybrid system also offers some impressive efficiency figures, with Honda promising up to 60mpg in its cleanest form, along with low CO2 emissions of 108g/km.
What’s it like to drive?
Compared to other hybrid systems – particularly at the more affordable end of the spectrum – this Civic feels like a real step up, particularly where driving enjoyment is concerned. It’s smooth, delivers plenty of performance and is very well engineered. By hybrid standards, which can be a bit noisy behind the wheel, the Civic is quiet and refined, with the engine only occasionally sounding a bit noisy under heavy acceleration. It’s also a fun option, with the steering having a decent amount of weight to it, while the ride occupies the perfect middle ground between sportiness and comfort, which is perfect for a car of this type.
How does it look?
Honda has kept the almost saloon-like profile of its recent predecessors for this latest Civic, which has been modernised, but Honda has been quite reserved. It’s still a very stylish choice, though, with its vibrant LED headlights, muscular-looking nose and perfect proportions meaning it still looks the part. For maximum style, a Sport model brings black 18-inch alloy wheels, in addition to gloss black styling pieces.
What’s it like inside?
The interior of the new Civic feels like a big step up from its predecessor, with one of the most important changes being its new nine-inch touchscreen. It’s night and day better than the previous system, being slick to operate and laden with features. We also like the new fully digital instrument panel on top-spec Civics, along with the mesh air vents that run across the interior. The lack of a conventional gear shifter also helps to free up more space. It’s more than spacious enough for a car of this class too, with a 410-litre boot offering plenty of room, though some taller adults may struggle for headroom in the back.
What’s the spec like?
Honda offers three trim levels on the Civic – Elegance, Sport and Advance. Standard equipment is excellent across the board, with the Elegance featuring dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a reversing camera and nine-inch touchscreen. Upgrade to the Sport and it brings larger 18-inch alloy wheels and LED front fog lights, while the top-spec Advance packs a Bose sound system, panoramic sunroof and electric front seats.
Verdict
The latest Honda Civic represents a really big step up for this family hatchback. The addition of the hybrid system brings enhanced responsiveness and efficiency, while the overall driving experience has improved too.
Combined with generous equipment levels and a well-finished interior, the Civic stands out as one of the best in this class. Why not browse some of our Civic offers or check out our used Honda Civic stock.