Quick squiz: Honda Civic VTi

• 
  Honda Civic VTi
  
  15 June 2006
  Peter Barnwell
  
  So, it has steel wheels with plastic covers but the base model Honda Civic VTi has plenty to offer discerning buyers in the small car segment.
  
  Emerging as the pace-setter in the class, Civic VTi hits with a killer price of $20,990 which would make other players in the market wince.
  
  
  Why?
  
  Because the Civic is such a good performer.
  
  This is the eighth generation of a car that started out in 1972 so Honda has had plenty of time to get it right.
  
  This is the biggest Civic, pushing the boundaries to the next size up.
  
  
  It’s line ball whether Civic has more room inside than the larger Honda Accord Euro.
  
  
  It has a flat floor for added interior room and is wider than ever.
  
  
  The boot is large and the rear seat folds, opening an even larger load area.
  
  
  
  It has numerous storage options and clever, practical touches dotted about the cabin.
  
  
  Just because it’s the base model doesn’t mean the VTi is boned-out. It scores airconditioning, anti-lock brake system, dual airbags, a decent audio system, power windows and mirrors and remote central locking.
  
  
  The engine is a bottler, kicking out 103kW/174Nm while sipping an average of 7.0 litres/100km.
  
  
  The manual test car showed a clean pair of wheels to plenty of other cars.
  
  
  It has a distinct sporty flavour to its dynamics and engine performance.
  
  
  It looks good inside and out with a broad, squat stance and slightly angry looking face.
  
  
  Aerodynamics are clean with benefits to noise reduction and fuel economy.
  
  
  A treat to drive, the squared off wheel is great in your hands and the slick changing five-speed manual is like a rifle bolt in operation.
  
  
  Its clutch is light, the brakes are powerful and the electronic throttle is sensitive.
  
  
  It grips the road tenaciously thanks to double wishbone suspension and steers with precision.
  
  
  It takes five adults at a pinch and is comfortable and quiet to travel in.
  
  
  The dash is deep but looks OK particularly with the multiple meter console and large controls.
  
  
  Civic weighs 140kgs more than the previous model but the beef hasn’t dulled its performance or economy.