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| Home » Honda Civic News » 2006 Honda Civic DX-G Road Test | ||
02/28/2006
The new engine is linked up to a 5-speed manual transmission in standard trim, or an optional 5-speed automatic. The manual in my test car was smooth and easy to operate, a real joy to drive, while the engine had pep. It was pleasingly quick in the city, a touch noisy on the freeway, however the fully-independent suspension delivered a very stable ride at highway speeds and maintained its composure during lane changes. And, back to ... the engine, while Honda stepped up its displacement it is even more fuel efficient than the outgoing 1.7. Therefore, with the manual transmission and driving like an EPA or EnerGuide tester, you can expect 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres in town and 5.7 litres per 100 kilometre on the highway. Real-world driving will probably result in more consumption, mind you, although it will still be one of the best available in its class. When it came to stopping, the ABS-enhanced brakes were solid. I drove the DX-G model, which had front discs and rear drum brakes, the setup that comes on the DX, DX-G and LX models. Those who opt for the EX will be provided with rear discs as well. The car's power rack and pinion steering was good, with a little movement going a long way. The new aerodynamic shape of the outer shell is inoffensive to look at and allows... for more interior space. Yes, the sedan has grown in size. The length is up 33 mm (1.3 inches) to 4,488 mm (176.7 inches). Its girth has also widened by 35.6 mm (1.4 inches) to 1,750 mm (68.9 inches) and its wheelbase has stretched by 81 mm (3.2 inches) to 2,700 mm (106.3 inches). Up from wimpy 14-inch rims, the new Civic rolls on steel 15-inchers with plastic covers on DX and DX-G models. LX and EX trims float down the road on 16-inch alloys. Up front, the seats are quite comfortable. For those who usually get stuck in the back seat, rejoice for the floor is humpless. Of course, this is normal for front-wheel drive vehicles which include all competitors in this class, but for those used to rear- or all-wheel drive vehicles this features is appreciated just the same. The flat floor gives passengers more foot space, which is especially noticeable when there are three people in back. And that rear seatback, connecting through to a large trunk, folds flat when the need arises to haul extra-long items. A minor annoyance, however, is that only the EX model includes 60/40 split rear seatbacks. Cargo aside, all passengers travel safely in every model as well, with side-curtain airbags and 3-point seatbelts standard across the line. Auto123 |
