2006 Honda Civic Sport CDTi 2.2 turbo diesel

Summary:

Cracking, individual small hatch with real flair

Faults:

No faults, as you would expect from a Honda.

General Comments:

Fabulous car. Replaced a Focus 1.8 TDCi Zetec which I was well pleased with, but this is a step on in every way.

The most impressive aspect is the engine. It's the smoothest, quietest four cylinder diesel engine I've ever experienced, and makes rivals from Ford, VW and Vauxhall (all of which I tried) feel agricultural. It pulls from nothing, revs keenly (for a diesel) and is returning 47 mpg average so far.

The dash design is gorgeous with a big central blue backlit rev counter flanked by smaller fuel and temperature gauges, and a central blue LCD speedometer in a separate pod above. Minor controls are grouped in circular "pods" around the main cluster, and the effect is both futuristic and striking. Unlike most cars which have interiors trying to copy the rather bland designs of German cars, Honda have designed something radical, yet ergonomically excellent. Assembly quality and materials are beyond reasonable criticism.

Handling is very good. It lacks that final n'th of involvement and feel of my old mk1 Focus with lighter steering and slightly overassisted brakes. However, the dual wishbone suspension gives precise handling, and grip levels are strong.

I tried a VW Golf TDI, a Focus TDCi 136 and an Astra CDTi and this stood out just for being different, yet as well if not better put together than any of its rivals. Shutlines are tight and even, trim fits perfectly, and there's a sense of almost surgical precision about the way the car is assembled that even the mk5 Golf can't match.

Well pleased with my choice.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th May, 2006

22nd May 2006, 21:02

Sure about the "double wishbone suspension"?

I think they (the accountants) got rid of that bit of engineering with the last of the seventh generation Civics.

29th May 2006, 16:38

I agree with the above post. Brochure makes tenuous links between motor sport and its suspension – sorry nothing motor sport about a torsion beam! However granted that chassis is very stiff - as stiff as the last Type R which will make it handle well.

22nd Feb 2007, 09:11

I had one of these on hire for 2 months awaiting a new car. At first I thought it was brilliant and eye catching, but it didn't take too long for me to find things that would really annoy me if I had one.

The hire car had about 2000 miles on it, but already had several rattles mainly from the rear interior panels, the left hand speakers were faulty, constantly buzzing on higher volumes. I found the engine quiet on the outside, but inside quite gruff and always audible. It was very easy to scrape the front valance if you were not concentrating on ramps etc... and when a stone hit the bonnet not only did it chip, but it made a small dent in the panel too.

Most diesels aren't really run in until about 15000 miles, but even so I didn't like the linear acceleration of the engine, it lacked the immediate punch of say one of the VW diesels, although it's arguably more refined.

I also felt the dash was too gimmicky and very easily marked. Its all horses for courses though, but if it were my money there are plenty of other diesels in that bracket I would consider first.

22nd Feb 2007, 13:35

The double wishbone suspension would not fit in the 06 Civics.

10th Jul 2007, 15:03

I hope to buy a New Civic when I finish my university course. I like the fact that the diesel engine is so quiet and refined. Also, there is the Honda reliability and futuristic looks. In my opinion it's the nicest looking medium sized car out there.

2006 Honda Civic CTD 2.2TD

Summary:

Really good car, couple of small bugs, but superb

General Comments:

This is my 2nd hire car until I get my Company Fiesta, I was also driving round a hired Toyota Corolla which was dreadful.

I was given this yesterday and I must say its fantastic with a couple of bugs though. Its quite a high spec model (CD player, leather interior, A/C, heated seats etc). The 2.2TD engine really shifts you and at 120 it doesn't seem to care, no wobble like to Corolla and plenty more life in her. Of course I can't really comment on the car in terms of any length of ownership, but am happy to mention its problems.

It doesn't come with a spare wheel just a foam filler canister which I thinks a bit cheap, but provides a lot more of storage. The front door handles are awfully tinny with a very flimsy feel (So I would expect problems with them in time). The rear spoiler is right across the middle of the rear view middle which is a pain at times (like unmarked police cars trying to get past so don't mistaken them for boy racers). In terms of visibilty around the whole of the car it scores poorly, I'm only 20 but I like to get my head round while reversing to say everything which this car certainly restricts.

I love the styling of the car and the rear end looks pretty fancy though some disagree, the engine is amazing which plenty of power and torque and it grips the road superbly. Theres a few two many buttons at times and I have gotten use to the very futuristic dash, but it's a pleasure to drive (since its free) unlike that dreadful Corolla (Can't believe people spend money on them new)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th April, 2006

2006 Honda Civic EX 1.8 petrol

Summary:

A good performer, with good fuel economy and plenty of gadgets to play with

Faults:

Rattle which seemed like it was in the cabin. Tracked it down to a loose bolt holding battery tray. Bolt tightened; now no rattle.

Rear seatbelt sensor shows seatbelt latched when not; going in to dealer to be sorted.

General Comments:

The car which is a 1.8 140 Hp is quick enough - easily leaves others at the lights. Getting about 35 mpg which is reasonable for a 1.8.

Cabin is very futuristic - rev counter and digital speedometer all backlit in blue.

Satellite navigation is excellent which includes Traffic-master which is useful since it can re-route you around jams.

The blue tooth phone system is a real gem, although it isn't clever enough to tell you on the display who is calling.

Voice controls are useful, but a bit gimmicky - easier to press the buttons.

The magic seats like the Jazz are very useful and the wheel well (this car has no spare, but a liquid fill kit and compressor) is useful for storing shopping.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th April, 2006