2005 Honda Civic 1.7CTDi review from UK and Ireland

Gear lever gaiter loose meaning gear change is even worse.

I have to say that this is one of the worst Honda's I have driven. The engine is particularly poor, having to rev it to at least 2250rpm before it will move adequately away from stand still and then you have to put up with a Leyland Daf van style industrious diesel rumble. Not the most flexible, refined or nice to use diesel by a long way- is this really a Honda engine??

Gear change is equally far from slick and movements are to close to eachother ie 4th and reverse. The steering lacks poise and can be too vague.

Ride quality is good being quiet and soft and usual Honda standards of exemplary build quality apply. That said, just a few of the plastic edges and finishes are not on par with Mazda.

The Civic 5-door is superbly roomy, but Honda seem to have dropped putting sunroofs in to their Civics. Not available on any models except the Executive 1.6 now. Neat looks from behind, but a bland front.

43mpg is usually always achievable no matter how hard the car is driven.

High driving position will not suit all and the absence of an arm rest or a storage box in between the front seats is annoying on long journeys.

Honda quality spoilt by a poor engine with too many flat spots. A Megane 1.9dci is a nicer engine to use, but I'd rather have a Civic for reliability and spaciousness.