Overview of the Honda Civic
Civic is Honda's oldest nameplate. The small car debuted in 1973 - perfectly timed with the world oil crisis with its focus on efficient performance and packaging.
Today's 10th-generation version, which launched in 2016, is one of the larger cars in the small-car class. It is available in sedan and hatchback body styles.
In 2017, the range was boosted by a high-performance model called the Type R.
HONDA CIVIC GENERATIONS (SINCE 2001)
2001-2005
2005-2011
2012-2016
2016 onwards
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
1.8L 4-cylinder: 6.4 litres per 100km
1.5L 4-cylinder turbo petrol: 6.0 litres per 100km
2.0L 4-cylinder turbo petrol (Type R): 8.8 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
Honda Tailored Servicing program available for Civics purchased after 20th July 2015 - scheduled every 10,000km. Each service currently costs between $281 and $312 ($307 each service for Type R). A different pricing structure is available for older models. Honda Civic parts and equipment can be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO HONDA CIVIC
Ford Focus
Holden Astra
Toyota Corolla
Volkswagen Golf
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: HONDA CIVIC (2012 to 2016)
The Civic to find second-hand from the last-generation pack is an early-2012 sedan, which was actually built in Japan.
Beyond mid-2012, Honda Australia stopped importing the Japanese-built sedan and switched supply to its Thai factory. And while quality was generally okay, the made-in-Japan model should be even better. The hatchback version, meanwhile, was made in the UK.
The biggest mechanical check is that the engine has had all its scheduled oil changes and preventative maintenance. Honda's engines perform as well as they do thanks to V-Tec technology that is a clever way of giving a small engine a big heart.
The process involves forcing oil through lots of small passageways to vary the valve timing and lift while the engine is running. But dirty oil will soon clog up those oilways and lead to V-Tec failure and permanent engine damage. So check the service record closely and avoid a neglected car.
These engines can use a little oil between services, too, so keep an eye on the dipstick until you learn the engine's drinking habits.
