IN today’s SUV-dominated market, the preferential factor for sedans may have diminished, but Honda is still optimistic for their celebrated Civic model with the introduction of the 11th generation. The Civic is certainly deep-rooted with an established identity, and it is here to stay for enthusiasts around the world to relish.
After its successful local debut, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) hosted a well-planned and thorough test drive event totaling over a 300-kilometer distance, tackling various road situations and conditions. We get to test the interesting entry-level variant S Turbo CVT with Honda Sensing.
We dig the new look
When the previous generation came out, we thought that Honda went back to the drawing board to create the exhilarating design. This time, it seemed that they did it again. Noticeably, the successor is now looking more mature, inside and out. The latest model is now longer by 29mm, thus, with a longer wheelbase of 37mm.
The streamlined and more prominent-looking front end exudes newly shaped headlamps with integrated standard Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and LED fog lights. The flanks flaunt sleek lines compliments the long bonnet and sloping roofline. Gone are the C-shaped taillights in favor of fresh pair of rather slender LED taillights. The variant we tested rolls on 16-inch rims wrapped in higher series tires.
Meanwhile, the interior’s layout is a complete departure from the previous. It denotes minimalism with a monochromatic theme, albeit with fewer plush materials. One of the noticeable changes was the front pillar’s realignment providing a better vantage point. Of course, the seven-inch touchscreen display audio is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capable.
Spirited yet in control
As if the standard1.5-liter four-Cylinder DOHC VTEC Turbo engine is not already exciting enough, Honda still improved output at 176 hp and 240 N-m of maximum torque while retaining the same Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). As such, this all-new Civic is highly engaging to drive. Those figures easily translate to performance, and we certainly felt it, for the most part. That substantial torque available between lower to mid-range engine rpm provided a wider powerband for that effortless acceleration whenever needed. Never mind the absence of the manual mode because the sport mode was more than enough to keep the rpm within optimum ranges, whether accelerating or engine braking. Nevertheless, we already expected that.
Include in the equation how the vehicle behaved on the road. It is no longer a surprise how nimble the vehicle was on bends, particularly tight ones. Cruising highway bends has never been this fun, along with the responsive steering. Suffice to say, the lighter and smaller rim with higher tire series both contributed to better acceleration with less bounce, respectively.
It all made sense
In 2019, we had our first dibs of the manufacturer’s suite of advanced safety and driver-assist features Honda Sensing. While we were impressed during the demonstration, we could not help but think—how will it be fair on Philippine roads? This time, Honda further improved the system by using a single monocular camera with a wider field of view. More so, with improved software for a better vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, and road marking recognition.
Before our convoy took off, all systems were up for demonstration. While traversing the expressways, we enabled the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) and set the speed within limits. Here, the system was actively keeping the pace based on the vehicle upfront, picking up and slowing down by applying brakes to keep a safe distance. The system also works with the Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN). Impressively, there were instances when we tested the system’s ability to slow down up to a complete halt completely and resumes automatically by simply pressing the “+” button.
The Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) was by far the big surprise for us. At long bends with visible lanes, the system actively operates the steering after sensing the absence of a response from the driver. As for the Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), applied slight resistance and movement during lane changes without using the turn signals. It was almost like a constant reminder to never miss it or, in a worse situation of losing focus, even for a bit.
Of course, the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) was always active in flashing warnings on screen for collision alerts. At some point, we even felt it was ahead of us on applying brakes despite the safe distance. Had we driven during nighttime, we would have tested the Auto High-Beam (AHB) feature too.
The system is an excellent safety backup for a seasoned driver for unforeseen situations. It can also be fun to challenge the system by getting ahead of it to test driving skills. Honda Sensing is there to assist and provide as much prevention as possible, but not to the extent of solely relying on it.
Loaded entry-level
Honda has changed how we look at entry-level variants, at least for the all-new Civic. The S CVT retails at P1.290 million and about P200,000 price increments for the V and RS variants, respectively. In this case, the preference boils down to aesthetics and trims, as all versions have premium performance elements and high-tech safety features. Entry-level variant or not, trust us when we say that the entire drive episode was nothing short of engaging, revealing, and spirited. We ended up wanting more.
Image credits: Honda Philippines, Randy S. Peregrino