Overview

The meteoric rise in the popularity of SUVs hasn’t been without its casualties, and the near-total demise of the family saloon car is one of them. Outside of executive brands such as BMW and Audi, there are barely any small saloons on the market in the UK, so perhaps Honda’s decision to bring over the Civic Saloon is an odd one.

Saloon models of the Civic traditionally haven’t been very popular in the UK, and for the last few generations have only been available as standalone IMA hybrids. The new car, though, is part of the conventional model range.

Heavily based on the Civic hatch (a car we like very much at Parkers) the Civic saloon is aimed at the traditionalist – those who value comfort over sportiness, outright carrying capacity over load space flexibility, and the lengthened silhouette of a saloon car over the truncated rear of a hatchback.

This means that the Civic saloon is somewhat bereft of competitors. The only direct rival on the market today is the Toyota Corolla saloon – itself a left-field choice due to its limited trim range and sole hybrid engine choice. If willing to eschew a true saloon boot, the Skoda Octavia is an excellent alternative – it’s spacious, has that three-box silhouette and low-specification models can be had for around the same price as the Civic.

If snouting around on the used market, vehicles such as the excellent Mazda 3 Fastback or even the unloved but competent Volkswagen Jetta become available. However, the Civic’s biggest competition comes from smaller, premium rivals such as the Audi A3 saloon and Mercedes-Benz CLA – both available on seriously competitive finance deals.

Petrol or diesel, manual or auto

The Civic saloon’s engine line-up is simple to understand, with just a single petrol and diesel engine to choose from. The high-powered 1.5-litre petrol that’s available on the hatch can’t be chosen here, so buyers may choose from a 129hp 1.0-litre petrol or a 120hp 1.6-litre diesel.

Both can be had with Honda’s excellent six-speed manual gearbox – the best choice, thanks to its slick action, well-chosen ratios and short throw. Petrol models may also be specified with a CVT automatic, while diesels get a conventional nine-speed auto.

All engines offer competitive running costs and are well paired to the Civic’s lively chassis, but it’s a shame that there’s no higher-powered option to make the most of the car’s fine handling and grip.

Simplified trim structure

There’s only a pair of trim grades to choose from, in keeping with the Civic saloon’s reduced model lineup. Both are generously equipped, with automatic headlights and wipers, digital dials, dual-zone climate control, a parking camera and a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher EX grade has full leather upholstery, heated seats all round, LED headlights, keyless start and a wireless charging pad, plus a sunroof.

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Both models are also flush with modern safety equipment, which is good to see.

Comfortable yet fun to drive

One of the Civic’s greatest strengths – whether in hatchback or saloon form – is its chassis. It manages to pull off that rare trick of being entertaining, accessible and comfortable all at the same time, though it does lack the last degree of handling finesse present in the Ford Focus.

However, a long wheelbase, sensibly-sized wheels and generous interior dimensions means the Civic saloon is a very comfortable long-distance cruiser, effortlessly eating up the miles.

Interested in the Honda Civic Saloon? Keep reading for our full review.