2016 Honda Civic 1.5T Touring
Burn Out Or Fade Away
There was a long period of time where the Civic was the undisputed leader in the compact/economy car class. Superbly engineered, it drove with a precision that eluded most competitors and was as reliable a bet in resale value retention as it was in mechanical durability. But Honda got lazy and the car began to loose its edge. First went its control arm suspension (and handling precision), then the reliability of certain models—mainly those with automatic transmissions—and last, even its interior quality. By 2011 it had become a cheap, cynical version of its former self.
Turn About Is Fair Play
Honda finally recognized how bad things had become when the mainstream press slammed that year’s model, and with unprecedented speed began the Civic’s rehab. Interior materials were upgraded within the year, and the plan for the new model rethought.
The result is that this, the 10th generation Civic, is the best in over a decade. Outside, the styling is a complex of shapes, slashes and swoops that suggest a hatchback, but this model is a swept-roof four door (a hatch version is indeed forthcoming). Top models are lathered in lots of chrome and diamond-cut wheels; this is certainly one of the more visually overt cars in the class. Inside quality has taken a quantum leap; most all plastics appear to be thoughtfully chosen and many are soft to the touch. The mix of piano black, bright trim and the upholstery’s textures and colors is quite daring. The combination of digital and analog instruments takes some getting used to, but delivers a load of information; likewise the button-free touchscreen. Better resolved is the design of the console between the seats, which allows a myriad of options for storage.
Bring It
This Civic, at least when equipped with the optional, 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, is now either class-competitive or class–leading in most every dynamic area. Its ride is refined, smooth and quiet, partially a result of the somewhat high profile tires. Steering is linear and direct, and if the handling isn’t a match for the Mazda3 in terms of driver engagement, it’s not far off. The Civic certainly seems quieter and more “mature.” This term also applies to the drivetrain, whose continuously variable transmission—a design that usually completely undermines a vehicle’s driving enjoyment—when combined with the turbo’s readily available 162lb-ft of torque, serves up quick-response punch and commendable real-world fuel economy. It’s an unobtrusive combo (which isn’t often the case with CVTs) and really fast as well, with 0-60mph arriving in 6.8 seconds, a feat only matched by the Mazda. And the low- to midrange muscle of the Honda makes it the quicker feeling, more responsive, around town machine.
For enthusiasts, it is actually a relief to see Honda back, excelling as it used to. In the Civic, along with the new HR-V and Pilot, the company has a trifecta of hot-selling, top of the charts vehicles.
More info: honda.com
Isaac Bouchard is owner of Bespoke Autos, an auto brokerage that helps people save time, money and hassle when buying or leasing vehicles. Since 1991 he has helped his clients save over $1 million dollars. He has written extensively about getting the best deal possible when buying or leasing a vehicle, arranging financing or trading in a car. Isaac has been a professional automotive journalist as well for over 12 years, having reviewed most all types of car, truck and SUV.
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