Honda Civic

The Civic is Honda's mainstream model and, the company says, as such defines the brand. While the previous model was immensely practical, the five-door suffered from dull styling and an uninvolving driving experience. In fact Honda admits the Civic is traditionally associated with older folk, and it has a task with the new model to attract younger buyers. However, it has taken the task very seriously: not a single component has been carried over to the new model; the styling is as forward-looking as can be found in a mainstream car; the handling has been sharpened up to appeal to younger drivers. The result is a Civic that stands out from the crowd, is engaging to drive and is faster and more efficient than the last model.

VTEC, SE, CTDI, SPORT, EX, ES

All Civics have electric windows, trip computer, remote central locking and alarm, front and side airbags, emergency braking assistance in conjunction with ABS and electronic brake force distribution. SE models add active head restraints, emergency braking assistance, automatic air conditioning, CD player, 16-inch alloys and a chilled glove compartment. Sport models have 17-inch alloy wheels and high-intensity headlights. ES models have the same as SE plus automatic lights, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and cruise control, leather-covered steering wheel, front fog lights and a panoramic glass roof. Meanwhile the EX has a combination of the equipment offered on Sport models, DVD navigation plus ES equipment.

2.2i CTDI EX