Honda Civic Hatchback (1995 - 2001) 1.8i VTi 5d (2000/X) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

The older Civics have a reputation for being driven by the more mature driver. I myself am 50 so maybe it's true. It does surprise a few boy racers though when you select 3rd and floor the pedal!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Most of the neighbours recognise Honda's for their reliability and high resale value.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would buy another Civic, maybe a Civic type R.

What are you likely to buy next?

I tend to keep cars a long time. I had the last car (from new) for 16 years. I quite fancy the Honda S2000 but it's not very practical. Chances are it will be Anglo-Japanese.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,200

When did you buy the car?

February 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

Price was below book as they were not a Honda dealer. It had full service history (Honda franchise) and had only recently been serviced. Dealer included a 12 month comprehensive warranty, which as it turned out was not comprehansive enough to cover replacement rear trailing arm bushes.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Looking for a reliable 5 -door sports hatch.

What was the dealer like?

Seat dealer would not budge on the price and would not take my old car in part exchange due to its age.

What's it like to drive?

The car is nice to drive but its noisy. A lot of cabin noise, from the tyres it would seem It tends to drown the engine noise unless doing over 5000 rpm. It handles very well especially when taken by the scuff off the neck. The car is fast but has to be kept on the boil which can be tiring. Visibility is good even for a short person like me. Gearchange is smooth but reverse can be difficult to select on first attempt.

What's it like to park?

Faily easy to park if mirrors are relied upon. Spoiler acts as a gauge.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Failed MOT for rear trailing arm bushes, which cost £254 inc labour and VAT to fit at Honda dealer-ouch! Clock backlight a pig to replace and cost £38 in labour!

What's most practical about your car?

Nothing stands out really.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Nothing really.