Honda Civic Hatchback (2000 - 2005) 1.6i VTEC Sport 3d (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Even though the car looks incredible and no doubt projects an image of style and success, the similarity in exterior design to it's more power brother will obviously suggest to many that I am either: a) Too poor for the Type-R b) Too sensible for the Type-R However, having seen numerous Type-R drivers in my area, I am glad to avoid being typecast!

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

They think it looks classy and drives very comfortably. The Milano red adds a certain 'prettiness' to the car too.

Would you buy this car again and why?

So far, yes. A lot depends on the fuel consumption though considering that the price of unleaded has just gone above £1/litre and the car cost over £40 to fill. I will have to wait and see how far that gets me!

What are you likely to buy next?

I would be very interested in staying with the Civic brand, however the newer styling with a sporty diesel engine appeals more than another petrol engine. I believe that there is a new 3 door Type-S with a 2.2L diesel engine which sounds very tasty - the only reasons I chose the 1.6i Sport over the 2.0 Type-S this time was because it looks so much sexier and had a better fuel consumption.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£8,000

When did you buy the car?

April 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Believe so. Only had 18K miles and forgetting a few small stone chips to paintwork and one very minor dent, is in mint condition.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

More attractive and classy than the new Focus.

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly and helpful.

What's it like to drive?

Overall very pleasing, especially on motorways where I can happily cruise in the slow-lane but overtake with ease when needed. On country roads the stiff suspension causes a little ride discomfort - a factor noticed by nearly all passengers, and the accelerator pedal seems very stiff causing difficulty when balancing the biting point on inclines - very easily resulting in a stall or over-revving! (Hence why potential stiffness in accelerator cable is going to be examined).

What's it like to park?

Very easy. Even though it is significantly larger than my previous car, the lightness of steering at parking speeds makes it easy to control.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing to date, although I might be replacing the accelerator cable soon.

What's most practical about your car?

Big comfortable space to drive in over extended distances, especially having come from a Peuguot 106!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

A good CD player is a big perk right now.