The Honda Civic is a really good compact car. He discards all quirks and scores with thrift. Bad luck for him that the heyday of this type of car is probably over. As a hybrid, it has no plug and therefore no prospect of government subsidies.
The compact five-door sedan recently lost its decades-long dominance on the German new car market to the SUV. Were it not for this trend, the new Honda Civic would have the potential to become a top seller. The fully mature Japanese compact car is in many respects one of the best that can be bought in this segment.
Starting with the futuristic UFO design of the eighth generation, launched in 2005, to the almost cartoonish, jagged bodywork of the tenth edition: the Honda Civic always stood for at least originality in the often mouse-grey compact class. However, often at the expense of courtesy and mass appeal. Civic number eleven presents itself optically mature without having become stuffy. The lines are simpler than the predecessor, the whole appearance looks more elegant. Thanks to the dynamic front end, you can even see a dash of sportiness.
Inside, too, the Honda won. The turbulent mouse-cinema design that characterized Japanese cars for many years has given way to a clearly structured cockpit that is almost premium in terms of ambience, materials and workmanship. The infotainment software, which operates the central screen on the dashboard, cannot quite keep up. But because important functions such as air conditioning and radio volume are operated via classic switches and wheels, you can live with it.
When it comes to space, the Japanese does not go into the top group. Compared to its predecessor, the new edition is longer overall and also between the axles. In return, however, the roof now hangs lower, which clouds the feeling of space in the rear a little. The luggage compartment behind the large hatchback, on the other hand, is generous. However, items that are too bulky cannot be transported, as otherwise there is a risk of contact with the slanting window glass. With the reverse folded down, only an average volume of 1200 liters is available for filling. The body, which is more chic than practical, does not benefit the clarity either.
But the showpiece of the compact is the drive. In Germany, the Civic is currently only available as a hybrid, which combines a 105 kW/143 hp four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motor units that, with their 135 kW/184 hp, take over the drive alone in most driving situations. Meanwhile, the combustion engine runs at an efficient, feel-good speed and only acts as a power plant. It only establishes a direct connection to the wheels when accelerating sharply or driving at high speeds, for example on the freeway.
It all works so organically and naturally that the driver quickly forgets the complex technical ballet. And only enjoy the powerful electric start and the frequent silent rolling in city traffic. The annoying howling and the meager acceleration performance of older hybrid systems is no longer noticeable here. Likewise, changes in traction when switching between the engines and drive modes do not disturb the silky driving experience. In addition, there is consumption that can easily be pushed below the five-liter mark with a little restraint. The chassis adapts to the sovereign drive. Designed to be comfortable in principle, it masters typical city and intercity traffic with ease. It handles motorways calmly and likes the precise steering on winding roads.
Honda is not known as a particularly affordable brand. The Civic isn’t a bargain either, but it’s positioned very fairly given what’s on offer. The basic model “Elegance” costs 31,900 euros, which is already reasonably equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, all-round parking aid including reversing camera, navigation system and two-zone automatic climate control. The extensively tailored top model “Advance” is available for 36,600 euros and then, including a panoramic glass roof, Bose sound system, leather interior and 18-inch wheels, leaves nothing to be desired. Honda saves a long list of options anyway, there are mainly optic extras such as effect paints or attachments for the body to buy.
The complete package of the Honda Civic convinces. The Asian eccentricity of the past few years is gone, replaced by a European-style elegance. The hybrid drive is more mature than ever and combines economy with smooth running and powerful acceleration. The price is also right, at least in relation to the competition, which is usually not cheaper. A few years ago, the compact car, which is always in high demand internationally, could have been a real hit in Germany; in the SUV age it is enough for a supporting supporting role at most.
Honda Civic e:HEV – specifications
