The right direction


The Honda Civic is one of those rare cars that caters to just about every age group. Whether it is my 17 year old neighbour or my 83 year old grandfather, the Civic has universal appeal. The reasons for which these polar opposite age groups buy this car are very different; one is looking to become the most talked about member of his gang with the latest available body kits and engine modifications while the other is banking in on reliability, comfort, fuel economy and low ownership costs.

It is always a delicate procedure for car builders to completely overhaul their best selling model. They must take into consideration what their customers like and what they do not like. Honda has always been a very independently thinking company. They are one of the very few that do not offer a V8 in their line-up. Also, they often make last minute announcements about their new models as opposed to creating hype and interest with concepts that will probably make production.

The best selling cars in Canada are more often than not in the compact category. This is why car builders are investing a tremendous amount of money into these cars. For 2006, Honda has completely revised the Honda Civic.

Base price is $16,980. The top-pf-the-line EX sedan with the automatic transmission has a retail price of  $23,380.

Styling

The redesign is a hit in my opinion. The outer shell looks very futuristic but in a very real-life sort of way and not to mention, good looking. When you buy a 2006 Civic, you are not getting a regular car. It is completely different than the previous generations, however it is still faithfully a Civic. The styling reminds me of Chrysler's cab-forward effort from the early 90s. Honda though, got it right. The car is sleek and the coupe is even hotter, especially in Si trim.

The interior is also out of a fiction novel. The speedometer is digital and located high up on the dashboard. The tachometer is on its own in the conventional spot behind the wheel. The shape of the dash is in itself very special as it protrudes towards the passengers without cutting into vital space. All controls work very well and are joyfully simple to operate. Plastics and other material selections are as expected for a Honda: excellent. I especially love the fat small two-spoke steering wheel.

The front seats, a Honda cornerstone, are supportive and comfortable. The rear folding bench is cozy for two adults and could easily accommodate a third if need be. Interior passenger volume is abundant and the trunk is also large.