| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Civic's big attractions are dependability and quality. It's not cheap, but your money buys a big choice of well-made cars that are nice to drive and suitable for smaller families. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
 |
| NCAP |
| 3 |
| Best Models |
| 1.5i LS; 1.6i V-TEC; 1.6 VTi 3-door |
| Worst Models |
| Saloons; 2.0TD |
| Replacement |
| by current generation Civic from late 2000 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| Civic straddles the borderline between small and medium models. The three-door is definitely for smaller families or couples. Five-door hatchbacks and less popular saloons find favour with older buyers. The US-inspired coupe lacks a clearly defined target market. The scarce Aerodeck estate approaches medium car status, though there's not much load space. Choose wisely - probably from the hatchback bodystyles - and you'll find high comfort levels thanks to refined engines, a ride that few rivals can match, and a well laid out cabin finished in good quality materials. Drivers appreciate Civic's character, too. Even the basic 1.4i feels lively, while 1.5i, 1.6i and V-TEC versions thrive on revs and accelerate crisply. VTi versions are discreet 'hot hatches'. Handling is nimble, responsive and safe. Civic's limitations are few: as an older design, its safety rating is poorer than newer European rivals; and security is below modern expectations. |
| Positive Points |
- Choice of hatchbacks, coupes, saloons and estates
- Excellent reliability
- One of the most refined small family cars
|
| Negative Points |
- Above-average insurance costs
- Some contemporary designs are safer
- Some maintenance and repair items are costly
|
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