by Larry Lark, Herald Special Sections Writer
It’s old – but it’s new again.
Almost sounds like a song title, does it not? In this case the “it” is the 2016 Honda Civic EX compact sedan – now in its 10th generation of production.
There are legions of Civic fans out there, and the number is sure to grow with the “dynamic rejuvenation” of Honda’s venerable sedan.
Enough of the tease. What’s new, you ask?
Virtually everything about the 2016 Civic sedan is new – an all-new vehicle architecture, sporty and sophisticated new interior and exterior styling, a more spacious and high-quality cabin, two advanced new engines, and a host of new premium features and technologies.
Per usual, it comes in trim levels that cover all the bases: LX, EX, EX-T, EX-L and Touring.
My tester was powered by a 2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, four-cylinder i-VTEC engine mated to a continuously variable transmission. The sedan seats up to five adults and achieves an EPA rating of 41 miles per gallon in highway driving.
And the trunk was large enough to hold eight rolls of sod from Home Depot and a couple of golf bags – although not at the same time.
The Civic exterior features creases, curves and bulges (all in the right places) to create a cohesive, contemporary look that evokes an athletic, luxury vibe. Completing the new look are 16-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof and uniquely shaped LED taillights.
The interior is the largest in its competitive class, providing a surprising amount of head, leg and shoulder room for all passengers, front and back. Honda fit and finish are apparent throughout, as are leading-edge technology and class-leading quality.
Available premium comfort and convenience features – all Civic firsts – include:
• Remote engine start
• Electronic parking brake
• Walk-away door locking
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Adjustable driver’s-seat thigh support with 14-degrees of tilt
• Heated front seat backs
• Heated rear seat cushions
• Rain-sensing wipers
Civic was designed to raise the bar for dynamic performance in the mainstream compact class. Mission accomplished. My EX provided precise steering, snappy acceleration, braking performance to match and a cabin that was very quiet.
What I was most impressed with, however, was the “Honda Sensing Package” which delivers an unbelievable array of safety features for a car in this price range.
Honda Sensing uses both millimeter wave radar and a monocular camera to sense and respond to detected road hazards and is available on all models and trims. Honda Sensing features include a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane-keeping assist and road-departure mitigation.
All Civics also come equipped with a multi-angle rearview camera and expanded-view driver’s mirror.
If you’re looking for a compact commuter car that has everything on your “want list” – and then some – look nor further than the new Honda Civic.
2016 Honda Civic EX
Base Price: $22,040
As Tested: $22,875
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.
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