Honda Civic Hatchback (2006 - 2011) 2.2 i-CTDi ES 5d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

The styling contradicts the badge in many ways. Honda has an enviable reputation in that its cars are utterly reliable, yet the styling of the Honda is funky and modern. Yet the most over-riding features of the car are those that make it highly practical.

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

Before driving or being driven in the car, friends and family were ambivalent. Now they have experienced it themselves, most are suitably impressed and indeed one neighbour has decided to buy one.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Without any question, this is the most suitable car on the market for me. There are a few cosmetic design points which grate on me, but apart from that I would not hesitate buying a car that satifies on so many different levels.

What are you likely to buy next?

Probably the replacement/facelifted Civic. Hopefully they will have tamed down some of the less attractive features yet retained all the practical ones. I understand a new D-TEC engine is in use in the new Accord, and I would like to see that in the new model. I understand an even more powerful diesel version is in the pipeline - could be interesting!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

May 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, the deal was pushed, I played several dealers off one another.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Highly recommended, good reviews, I love the looks and I love Honda reliability.

What was the dealer like?

Honest, frank and helpful.

What's it like to drive?

Unlike any diesel I have driven before, response is almost instant, rather like a powerful automatic petrol car. Also, the engine pulls right through the rev range, and it likes to rev: previously with diesels, I have always been tempted to change up early - it's not necessary in this car. Because it is so astonishingly torquey, it will never run out of breath on hills - it eats them, even in 6th. Handling is exemplary. It turns in very well and handles the corners beautifully with minimal body roll, and seemingly limitless grip. Steering is precise, responsive and pin-sharp, but feels a little remote, and lacks some feeling.

What's it like to park?

Not the easiest and not the worst. Visibility is limited, but the advantage with the Civic is that you can see your rear-most extremity - the perspex window below the spoiler. Also, the bonnet is astonishingly short (just how did they manage to get an engine that size in there?). This makes parking much easier.

Have you had any problems with the car?

No

What's most practical about your car?

Its flexibility. It can be a relaxing or an exciting drive depending upon your mood or the road. It has a good balance of characteristics

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The panoramic roof gives a nice feeling of space, but the most downright clever gadget has to be the magic seats. I can get my mountain bike in upright - fab stuff.