Car Test
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R0282 | |
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See also
R0148
November 2002 |
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| Brief Test | Honda Civic | |
| Printer Friendly Page | Featured model: 1.7CTDi SE 5door | |
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Honda has always been half-hearted about diesels until now. But with a range of petrol engines of high calibre, one can understand the reluctance – especially as most Honda engines love to rev.
The typical present-generation diesel performs very differently, of course. Most of the accelerative urge occurs around 2000rpm and is all over by 4000rpm, where the real action starts on most Hondas. Nevertheless, the demands of the market-place and the Inland Revenue are driving more and more company car reps into diesel – and they’re learning to enjoy it. Honda seems to have got the message, too – the new Accord will have a diesel of in-house design in 2003 and this Civic uses a bought-in (but significantly reworked) unit from Isuzu. With a burly five-door body to propel, the 1.7-litre engine can’t boast startling acceleration, but it’s no sluggard, doing its stuff from about 1700rpm upwards. It’s a bit growly in the way it delivers, and there’s also a harsher edge to its exhaust note when cruising at about 60mph. It’s quiet at 70, however, and less vibrant than some at half that speed in top, as well. Gearing is a modest 26mph per 1000rpm in that top slot, but is a well judged compromise for the conflicting demands of accelerator response, mechanical refinement and economy. And talking about economy, the Civic's is on the right side of average for the car’s size and type – but doesn’t offer any significant fuel cost savings, either, compared with Astra, Focus, Golf and so on. Expect over 60mpg in gentle touring, however. The gearchange continues to surprise and delight – its looks belie it's excellent shift quality. This Civic diesel had the latest (slightly smaller) steering wheel – it felt more meatier in its response than the over-light 1.6’s we tested previously; however, that inert stickiness from straight-ahead, when only fractional correction is required, is still apparent on a straight road. Otherwise, this Civic diesel continues to display stolid but safe cornering but a rather jittery, disturbed ride, that puts it in an indifferent light compared with a Ford Focus or even a Toyota Corolla. However, the seats go a long way to make amends for the suspension’s shortcomings – it’s both exceptionally spacious and supportive, sitting anywhere in the Civic. |
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