The Civic Coupe (and sedan) is equipped with strong, 4-wheel

Odd positioning of shifter and handbrake works in favour of Civic. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

antilock brakes buttressed by Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) as standard equipment. Only with the top-of-the-line EX trim level and the Si editions are all four wheels arrested by disc brakes. Lower trim versions such as my DX-G tester make due with a front disc/rear drum arrangement, which by the way performed most admirably throughout my test period. Remember, the Civic isn't a heavy vehicle so the absence of rear discs is not a major issue unless high performance needs outstrip commuting requirements. My guess is that the drums will serve their purpose quite effectively while experiencing very little wear over the long run. Of greater import to me is the 4-wheel antilock technology Honda has included as standard equipment with all trim levels. They have also included a wealth of occupant protection as standard rigging.

From

Body-coloured mirrors and alloy wheels are available on dressier Civics, like this EX model. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

the most basic Civic on up the ladder, the following airbags are supplied as standard equipment: driver and front passenger dual-stage frontal airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags with passenger seat occupant detection system, and finally, side curtain airbags for all outboard occupants. Active head restraints are also included in the packaging.

Notably missing from the array of safety equipment is electronic stability control , as well as traction control, which is disappointing. Not even the racy Si Coupe is so equipped. Of course, if stability or traction control were included it would be the only vehicle in its class to get such hardware.

Notwithstanding the shortfall, like Hondas in general, the Civic Coupe DX-G is well-furnished with comfort and convenience such as keyless entry, power windows, mirrors and locks, air conditioning and AM/FM/CD audio. Rising above the DX-G's utility is both the LX and EX offerings, which add content such as 16-inch alloy wheels, premium audio, cruise control, auto up/down windows, outside temperature, moonroof and leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel.

However

A sure-fire winner against all two-door compact coupes. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

a 2006 Civic Coupe is dressed, its pleasing combination of economy, sport and practicality unite in making it a sure-fire winner. Seldom have I had so many people gush over a test vehicle, and certainly not over an entry-level economy car. Yet this little slingshot catches attention from young and old alike, with all of them surprised to learn it's a base model Honda Civic. The dramatic styling and futuristic interior of Honda's sleek Civic Coupe contradicts its competitive, econo-car pricing, and that alone ought to ensure the vehicle's popularity. Add Honda's reputation for reliability and driving fun to the formula and I doubt the Japanese brand will feel much of a competitive pinch from GM's new coupes, the Chevy Cobalt, Pontiac Pursuit and Saturn Quad Ion.

Specifications (Civic Coupe DX-G ):

• Price Range (Civic Coupe DX-G MSRP): $19,080 - $20,280
  
• Price as Tested (MSRP): $19,080
• Body Type: 2-door coupe
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 140 hp, 128 lb-ft of torque, 1.8L, 16-valve SOHC I-4
• Transmission: 5-spd manual
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum, ABS, EBD
• Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,440 / 1,751 / 1,396 / 2,650 mm (174.8 / 69.0 / 55.0 / 104.3 in)
• Curb Weight: 1,189 kg (2,621 lbs)
• Tires: 195/65R15
• Capacity (trunk): 326 L (11.5 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 7.8 / 5.7 L/100 km
• Observed Fuel Economy: 8.0 L/100 km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Competitors: Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus ZX3, Hyundai Tiburon,  Pontiac Pursuit, Saturn ION Quad Coupe, VW Golf
  
• Website: www.honda.ca