Honda Civic Hatchback (2000 - 2005) 1.6i VTEC SE Executive 5d Auto (2001/51) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

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

Very impressed by the price / performance / reliability balance.

Would you buy this car again and why?

What are you likely to buy next?

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,750

When did you buy the car?

August 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes. The vehicle was at the older end of stock and had not been picked out in the initial stocking period. It had been subject to a price reduction and there was a measure of sympathy for my position (previous vehicle vandalised).

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Previous Honda experience. Comparison with VW Golf automatic of same age.

What was the dealer like?

Courteous and professional.

What's it like to drive?

It is excellent to drive in town: - the steering is very light (not such a virtue at speed); - visibility is excellent in all directions; - acceleration to 30 mph is brisk; and - brakes are strong and progressive. The suspension is a good balance between compliant ride and handling at town speeds, and performs adequately for faster A road driving. For faster driving it is an improvement in this respect over the previous generation Honda Civic. There the suspension on standard models was too soft for faster driving, particularly when combined with even less feedback from the (overly) light steering. The steering lacks feel for out of town driving. Performance is adequate for faster driving (braking performance remains good), but the package works best in urban settings.

What's it like to park?

Parking is very easy due to the combination of light steering, automatic gearbox, good lock for a front-wheel drive car and excellent visibility in all directions. Parking sensors can be retrofitted but are not necessary.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The vehicle has behaved faultlessly.

What's most practical about your car?

The load space is excellent with the seats down, and is is occasionally convenient being able to exit the vehicle passenger side - easy without a central console dropping down to the floor.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Dash-mounted gear lever. Really out of the way.