The Civic looks like it’s from another generation, but that’s because it truly is. A modern saloon design with a cab-forward stance, the new Civic is shaped to cleave the wind. It bucks the current trend of trading sleekness for vertical space and is appreciably lower slung than the Corolla. A flowing design, with hood, passenger compartment and boot merging almost seamlessly, the new Civic takes the three-box car silhouette to the next level. In the nose section, the hood, bumpers and fenders blend together beautifully and give it that cohesiveness possessed by all great designs. And it’s got sharp styling too. Well sculpted, multi-element headlamps sit on either side of a prominent bonnet ‘V’, between a thick bar of chrome that plays the role of a grille.

Meanwhile, both the grille and chin look like they’ve been cut into a solid piece of metal. The facelifted Civic features a more sculpted look to the front  bumper. The grille side is angular like on the Accord . Proportions and detailing at the rear are exquisite as well. The boot is well formed and tight fitting, the design of the tail-lights have been inspired by a fighter jet according to Honda, while chromed double-barrel exhausts wrap up its sporty look.

The Civic uses a transversely mounted engine to drive the front wheels, has disc brakes for all four wheels and is equipped with anti lock brakes as standard. The Civic uses independent suspension all round with McPherson struts and lower ‘A’ arms up front. And it utilises multi-links at the rear.The Civic is relatively low slung and sporty. It boasts a rather smooth, cohesive design, one that works quite well. It also has great build and superior fit and finish.