Change. Most people fear the idea of it, while a daring few embrace it. The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.
Change can be simple and evolutionary, such as our new review formats. Change can also mean a huge revolutionary step forward; such is the case of the new Honda Civic.
There's a ton of hype around this new car, namely because it's a shot at redemption for Honda. The previous generation Civic drew critical ire, particularly for its uninspiring design and lack of verve, losing out in sales and demand to rivals like the Mazda3 and the Toyota Altis.
Today, the 2016 Civic promises to bring the Japanese marque's A-game back into the increasingly competitive sedan market.
Downsized engine, upsized power
As much as we enjoyed Honda's traditional VTEC engines, downsizing and turbocharging, for economy and performance is proving to be the way forward.
We previously experienced Honda's responsive new powertrain in the Jade RS but unlike the 148bhp and 203Nm of torque pumped out by the Jade, the Civic's DOHC VTEC Turbocharged 1.5-litre produces 170bhp and 220Nm of torque - that's 2.4-litre potential, more compared to even the Mazda3's 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G.
And paired to the gutsy 1.5-litre unit is Honda's creamy continuously-variable automatic, which has a 'Sport' and semi-automatic mode for increased driving fun.
Flip the powertrain into 'Sport' mode and the engine ups its revs. Pedal to the metal sends the Civic from 0-100km/h in 8.6 seconds and in spite of a tiny bit of turbo lag, there's enough mid to high range punch for overtaking and staying ahead.
But don't expect this Civic to perform like a Type R, of course. Driven maturely, the engine is quiet and returns a fuel economy of 15.4km/L.
Dynamically speaking…
It isn't just a car that's capable in a straight line either. The Civic is sharp, precise and composed around twister tarmac and at the same time, soaks up bumps in the road graciously.
Honda has also improved the car's steering setup. It's now a far more desirable unit; meaty and responsive.
We found it to be the ideal compromise for practical city driving, in and out of carparks, yet very capable on open stretches of roads.
Space and grace
For buyers who are more concerned about practicality, the Civic's got you covered.
Seating space, front and rear, are aplenty for a mid-sized sedan. In fact, the space you get is comparable to cars a size larger, like the Mazda6 or the Toyota Camry.
Trunk capacity has also increased from before to 519 litres, which is larger compared than most in its class.
It's also styled expensively. The Civic's cabin design is modern and minimalistic, finished in high-quality materials except for a few tacky plastic pieces, and there's lots of clever storage solutions around.
For the driver, a Multi-Information Display presents information at a glance, such as your average fuel consumption, phone functions, music and even how hard you're working the car's turbocharger. And, the aforementioned controls are easily in reach from the driver's sporty, leather upholstered eight-way power adjustable seat.
For buyers who are more concerned about practicality, the Civic's got you covered.
Seating space, front and rear, are aplenty for a mid-sized sedan. In fact, the space you get is comparable to cars a size larger, like the Mazda6 or the Toyota Camry.
Trunk capacity has also increased from before to 519 litres, which is larger compared than most in its class.
It's also styled expensively. The Civic's cabin design is modern and minimalistic, finished in high-quality materials except for a few tacky plastic pieces, and there's lots of clever storage solutions around.
For the driver, a Multi-Information Display presents information at a glance, such as your average fuel consumption, phone functions, music and even how hard you're working the car's turbocharger. And, the aforementioned controls are easily in reach from the driver's sporty, leather upholstered eight-way power adjustable seat.
There's clever tech, too
One special feature, which makes the Civic even more of a segment leader is Honda's LaneWatch System. Signal left and a camera mounted on the left wing mirror displays a wide angle view of what's on the blind side of the car, on the infotainment system.
This feature helps reduce the obligation to turn your head and is particularly beneficial for motorcyclists riding in your blind spot.
Can't help but want one
There are no ifs, ands or buts about it; the Honda Civic has matured handsomely and cleverly, recovering its pole position in its segment. Its Acura-inspired design may take a while to get used to but everything else about the car is undeniably desirable.
The Civic doesn't just resolve to be the best car in its segment. Instead, by going above and beyond, targeting models a size and price bracket up, makes the Civic a car, which can easily wear a more premium badge.
Change ain't that bad now, isn't it?
One special feature, which makes the Civic even more of a segment leader is Honda's LaneWatch System. Signal left and a camera mounted on the left wing mirror displays a wide angle view of what's on the blind side of the car, on the infotainment system.
This feature helps reduce the obligation to turn your head and is particularly beneficial for motorcyclists riding in your blind spot.
Can't help but want one
There are no ifs, ands or buts about it; the Honda Civic has matured handsomely and cleverly, recovering its pole position in its segment. Its Acura-inspired design may take a while to get used to but everything else about the car is undeniably desirable.
The Civic doesn't just resolve to be the best car in its segment. Instead, by going above and beyond, targeting models a size and price bracket up, makes the Civic a car, which can easily wear a more premium badge.
Change ain't that bad now, isn't it?
