Honda Civic (2001-2005) Review

On the road

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Because it's built tall, visibility is superb. The driving environment is fuss-free, too, with simply laid-out, foolproof controls and an intuitive dash. The close-to-hand gearlever forms a centrepiece; it feels unusual initially, but soon becomes so straightforward, you wonder why more cars don't have one. Besides, it operates one of the slickest gearboxes around, too, while clutch, brakes and accelerator are also smooth, light and responsive.

With light steering, driving a Civic is a remarkably simple and un-taxing process - no wonder the elderly like them. The ride is firmer than in most family cars, however, which helps the handling be a little bit sporty. Base models are not as sporty as the Type-R, so see that car's separate test.

All engines perform well, even the base 1.4-litre, which provides 89 bhp and acceleration to 60mph in 12.5 seconds. Thank VTEC variable valve timing, which features on all models, and helps the 1.6-litre to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds, onto a 116 mph top speed. There are two 2.0-litres too, a 157 bhp cruiser, and of course the 197 bhp Type-R screamer (tested separately), which reaches 60mph in under seven seconds. Alongside these units, there's also a the 1.7-litre diesel (100bhp, 0-60 mph in 12.0 seconds); smooth and pretty refined, it's a most agreeable engine to use and seems, for a diesel, pretty flexible and keen to rev. Just don't expect any drama from it.