Honda Civic 2.2 i-DTEC EX 5dr test

Honda Civic 2.2 i-DTEC EX 5dr

What is it?

THE last generation Honda Civic blew us away with its advanced space-age looks that shook up the image of Honda – and those other five-door hatchbacks in the sector.

This time around the ninth generation Civic is more to do with evolution rather than revolution – think VW Golf evolutionary styling steps – but when you get to see the cars in dealerships, expect a high-end technology greeting. All dealers will be equipped with tablet computers to show off the new Civic’s advanced technology.

Alas for those very same dealers, the greeting will be delayed. Following the Civic’s world debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September, the ninth generation Honda Civic went into production at Swindon in November. But the extensive flooding of component suppliers in Thailand has delayed the UK launch of the car by a month to February 2012.

Nevertheless, once the UK production facility gets back into its building stride, the Civic will be produced in four trim levels from £16,500 to almost £26,600, has a much more muscular look to the body with a wide, low stance, increased window area and underneath there is revised suspension.

Engine choices include a 100PS1.4 or a 142PS 1.8 petrol or a 150PS 2.2 diesel with 6sp manual gearboxes. If you want an auto option, there’s a five-speed automatic available on the 1.8. But the choice for business users must be the diesel, offering plenty of drivability with its huge 350Nm torque, yet keeping emissions at 110g/km – which means it qualifies for 100% first year capital allowances. It will be key to Honda, too, which wants to capture more fleet business with lower running costs, good residual values and a greater premium feel to the car.

What’s hot?

• Beefy engine loves to be revved but remains composed and quiet
• Good equipment levels optimise personal entertainment gadgets
• Roomy, comfortable, wrap-around dash, boot 477-1378 litres
• Flip-up Magic Seats in rear (like cinema seats) add extra usability
• About 45mpg on test, although over 67mpg official figure
• Eco mode button and idle stop to minimise fuel use
• Smooth aerodynamic shape includes flat under-floor tray
• Civic 2.2 i-DTEC is expected best seller from £20,095, emits 110gkm
• EX trim has alloys, aircon, Bluetooth, leather, heated front seats…
• …and HDD satellite navigation and premium audio system as standard

What’s not?

• Aerodynamic ‘slivers’ on rear wings of 2.2 diesel look odd
• Uneven boot floor may not suit everyone
• Instrument display not clear in all light conditions
• Economy gearing means you have to press on for performance
• Some lack of steering feel
• Rear visibility improved with wiper but vision still not entirely unobstructed
• No diesel auto availability
• We have to wait until 2013 for all-new sub-100gkm 1.6 diesel

What you need to Know?