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2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000
 
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Honda Civic VTi
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By offering a great driving experience at a reasonable cost, the Honda Civic comes out tops in this tightly contested class. In this ultra-competitive category where affordability is crucial, but buyers still expect high quality, the Honda Civic has both sides of the equation well covered. It has the look and feel of quality beyond most of the competition. But the Civic's real strength is its all-round ability. Australia's Best Cars judges score each vehicle relative to others in the class over nineteen areas covering three main sections - Value for Money, Design and Function and On the Road. Civic clearly leads the way in design and function and is among the best for its on-road ability and value for money, whereas Hyundai Elantra for example does exceptionally well in respect to ownership costs but is let down by on-road ability, while Mazda3 is strong in on-road ability and design and function but falls behind on ownership costs. Civic VTi looks and feels like a more expensive car than its attractive price tag might suggest. By building the Civic in Thailand, Honda has brought the price down but maintained the high level of quality we have come to expect in the Japanese models. For an entry-level model, Honda Australia has also chosen the VTi's equipment wisely and upgraded the security system, which has been well below average in past models. Its value for money extends to practical design and clever engineering, not just superficial add-ons. However, a few minor cost-saving measures are apparent in areas such as the boot hinges, a one-piece folding rear seat and even some trim materials.A typical 4/5 seat sedan, Civic is not the biggest car in the class, but the well laid-out cabin has an open ambiance, while excellent ergonomics and appropriate front seat shaping set the scene for a comfortable driving experience. Also in evidence is the priority Honda places on occupant safety, while the all-round vision is excellent. The unique two-tier dash features an excellent forward-mounted speedo with a large, easy-to-read digital display. Mechanically, it's a refined package that is smooth, quiet and does very little wrong in terms of handling and ride but is not going to excite the sporting enthusiast. The gearing, for example, could be better sorted to extract the best from this engine. While the Civic scores reasonably well in safety, it is a pity Honda Australia did not extend the safety equipment to include ESP (electronic stability control). High petrol prices are generating a great deal of interest in the mid-size four-cylinder market and the 1.8-litre-engined Civic VTi delivers excellent fuel economy without having to compromise too much in performance. In true Honda tradition, the free-revving engine is a willing worker which is also technically sophisticated and environmentally friendly. There are a couple of stronger performers in the class, but the VTi is still better than most. For those who prefer a little extra grunt Honda does have a more expensive 2.0-litre Civic Sport version. Overall, thanks to its mechanical precision, refined driving, smoothness and quietness, the Civic presents as a more up-market vehicle than the class average.
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