Technical

The size of the engine has grown from a 1.7L to a 1.8L 4-cylinder. Horsepower is rated at 140 and torque at 128lbs thanks to Honda's sophisticated i-VTEC variable valve timing. Transmission selections are between a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Brakes consist of front discs and rear drums although the EX has rear discs. Steering is variable power assisted rack and pinion and the suspension is fully independent.

On the road

The 1.8L is more refined and a little gutsier than the old 1.7L. The extra oomph at lower rpm gives the Civic a little more kick-in-the-pants acceleration although the car is still no pocket-rocket. The 5-speed manual transmission is gloriously easy to use; both the shifter's and the clutch's action is light. The only catch is the occasionally tough to engage third gear. When moving from 2nd to 3rd, it is important to precisely follow the gate otherwise the lever might get snagged.

The brake pedal is solid and response is very good. Its 1,224 kg weight is easily brought to a complete stop. In these wintery conditions, the Bridgestone Blizzaks certainly help. Steering is spot-on with nicely dosed assistance.

The Civic's ride has great manners and corners impressively. The suspension's action is at once controlled and sporty all the while remaining pliable enough to soak-up potholes. The rear double-wishbone setup is a model of refined driving in the compact category.

Comparison

The two most popular cars in Canada are the Mazda3 and Honda Civic. Here is how they measure up to each other. These two cars are kingpins in their segment. The Civic is the reliability and economy champion whereas the Mazda3 is the driving and utility champion. Both cars have fabulous platforms and feel extremely solid. The Civic is a little less punishing when city driving than the 3. The Mazda shines when it comes to stability, agility and mountain roads. The Civic is all-new although it is still a Civic and therefore should be very reliable. The Mazda3 has had a few very minor teething issues but they are fixed at the moment. If I had to make the more sensible choice, I would get a Civic.

Safety

The car has standard dual front, side and side curtain air bags, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) awarded the car 5 out of 5 stars (a perfect result) for both the driver and passenger in frontal impacts. The IIHS has rated it a Gold Top Safety Pick in its category.