2001 Honda Civic LX 4-dr review from North America

Absolutely nothing has gone wrong with this car. It's been back to the dealer only for oil changes.

Stock all-season tires are horrible (Firestone 185/70SR14). In fact, they are likely the worst tires I've ever had on a vehicle. Grip is treacherous in the wet (forget snow) and handling sloppy in the dry. Cornering at high speed feels like you're riding on giant donuts. At 34,000km tread is down to 1/3 of new. Will be replacing soon with tires of much higher quality.

With my snow tires (Michelin Pilot Arctic Alpin 195/55HR15) handling is crisp, sharp and easily controlled. The difference is so dramatic that it feels like a different car. With these tires (keeping in mind they're snow tires) the car corners flatly and safely at ridiculous speeds. The suspension does an amazing job of keeping the wheels on the ground, considering the roads in Vancouver resemble dried-out riverbeds.

This car is the most stable I've driven on compact-snow-covered highways (obviously with snow tires).

Rear suspension feels stiffer than many pick-up trucks I've been in when going over speedbumps. However, once up to speed the ride smooths out.

Fuel economy is between 450-600km on 40 litres of fuel, depending on city/highway/mixed driving.

Paint on hood and front bumper seems to chip easily, but then again this was noticed after an encounter with a highway sanding truck that I got stuck behind.

Although controls/seat/armrest/shifter fit my body shape perfectly (5'9"), this is not always the case for taller people. As a point of reference, the controls in a VW Golf (unfortunately) do not fit me well.

If you're not afraid to rev the engine to within an inch of its life, performance will not disappoint.

This is my third new Honda in 8 years and I've never been left stranded or been presented with any surprise bills.