For 2022, Honda has decided to completely redesign their best selling Civic model. This brand new Civic is the 11th generation model. Our first impression of this car was that Honda was overly conservative with the styling, but once we saw it, the lineage and refinement truly stood out. In recent years, as consumers gravitate towards SUVs and crossovers, Honda will not let us forget about the compact sedan.
While the Civic's styling does not appear as forward as its competitors the Elantra or Mazda3, our opinion quickly shifted after the initial test drive. When comparing the new model to its predecessor, the 10th generation Civic, the choice of styling feels much more mature. The previous models angular front fascia, with its bumper bulge and pronounced fenders, have been replaced with a much more polished front end. The rear C-style lights have been replaced with a traditional design, reminiscent of a late 90's Accord.
The interior of the 10th generation Civic is nice but ultimately still feels like an entry level vehicle. The modernized 11th generation interior has a true luxury car look and feel. It includes many noteworthy features, which come standard and would end up costing buyers thousands extra to have the same level of features, normally reserved for high-end car owners. The moment you enter the cabin, you immediately notice the honeycomb grill, which spans the length of the dash. Not only does this trim add a unique visual effect to the car, Honda has cleverly integrated the climate vents into the design. We also love the angular imprint for the door trim, it is a small feature but the attention to detail is appreciated.
All Civic models include a half digital speedometer with a 7" infotainment system above the dashboard. Carplay and Android Auto are also standard features. We like the combination of touch functionality with hard buttons, it makes the system much easier to use while driving. Our test car was the fully loaded Touring model, which comes with upgraded screens in both the instrument cluster and above the dashboard. The instrument cluster has a Tesla-like feel, which displays a digital rendering of the car, the road ahead and potential hazards.
Below the touchscreen, is the climate control system, which we also really like. It has a simple design, requiring little or no explanation, the switches have a feel great when making adjustments to the temperature or fan speed.
Starting at the modest base price of $26,280 (CDN) we are blown away by Honda's list of standard equipment. Not only are keyless proximity entry and push button ignition included in every Honda, they also include a factory remote start for for cold winter days.
We are further impressed by the host of standard safety equipment. The usual placement of airbags, Collision Mitigation and Lane Keeping, all come standard. In addition, Honda has decided to include their Adaptive Cruise in every model.
We commend Honda on the safety tech that is standard on all trim levels. LED lighting is standard even in the base LX model. The top of the line trim (for the moment) is the Touring model which has two additional safety features, low speed braking and front / rear parking sensors.
Under the hood are two carry over powertrains. The entry level models has a 2.0-litre, 16-valve, i-VTEC 4-cylinder, producing 158 hp. Our test car the Touring model has a
a 1.5L turbocharged, 4 cylinder with 180 hp. Both engines are offered only with a CVT transmission, (click here to learn more about transmissions) which we found decent during our test drive. Honda has announced that there will be a manual option for the 11th generation Civic, once they debut the hatchback, SI and Type R variants.
The Touring model feels very solid, well planted on the road and generally drives nicely. We give further credit to Honda, for choosing to keep an independent rear suspension. Some of their competitors, like the Mazda3, have opted to remove this important feature for a cheaper torsion beam suspension.The performance of the powerful Touring model is more than adequate for the average driver's daily commute.
If you are in the market for a compact sedan the new Civic should be on the top of your list. Inside and out, this car has a remarkable amount of quality and refinement. With an impressive amount of standard features and safety equipment included it feels like Honda has a real hit on its hands.
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