Honda Civic - 2.2 D ES Model - what they like!

[spicjt]

Hi all,

Looking to upgrade my golf 1.9tdi company car to the above - went for the ES model which was in my allowance.

Anyone got one?? what are they like, i have yet to test drive but I am sure they are nice to drive as have drove several hondas, but not the new civic!

anythings to look out for??

Thanks
Jason

[se9boy]

I've got an '06 diesel ES civic as my company car. First honda and first diesel I've had so I can't say if it's better or worse than a 1.9tdi golf but after covering just over 19,000 miles in it.....

I Like;
Dash layout & controls (esp. on steering wheel)
Spec (dual climate / cruise / glass roof / auto headlights / auto wipers / folding mirrors)
Size of boot
Performance (140bhp / 340Nm torque)
Turbo comes in around 1,700rpm (but it's all over around 3,750!)
Has shift lights for that F1 feel(!!)
Pulls 6th gear very well on m-way. 6th gear = approx 35mph / 1000rpm
Low emissions = fairly cheap co. car tax
Economy (I've averaged 49.2mpg over 19k - best journey was 56mpg)
The way the rear seats fold up / down to create space for 'stuff'
General looks / styling of the car
It has not broken down

I'm not so keen on;
Poor rear vision
Stupid fuel filler release mechanism (feels as though it's going to break at any time)
There's no spare wheel as standard (optional extra)
Aerial incorporated into rear screen - radio hunts for reception at times
My interior courtesy lights don't work
The hatch is heavy to open up fully
Only standard colour is red - all others are a cost option
Initially did not like the handling but have no issue with it now.
Owner manual is about an inch thick - is worth a read though

I wish it had;
Xenon headlights (my last car had them - it's standard on the Civic 'Sport' model but not available on the ES model, at least not when I ordered)

The new civic is often criticised for poor interior finish and excessive road noise but I have to say I find it better on both counts than the '02 Astra 2.2sri I had before.

There you go, good luck.

[GlenMH]

I have got an EX and agree with all the points above. www.civinfo.com is a good forum where all the faults/issues can be found.

Glen

[spicjt]

Thanks gents,

I have not yet tested one, but at the london motor show thought that the look both inside and out was better then alot of the others their.

With the budget of £300 per month, I dont think I will find anything else with all the 'stuff', well that I like.

Was looking at Jetta also, but I know it would be much more standard then the civic.

Thanks again!!

Jase