The 9th generation Civic is now one of the most efficient family hatches out there. Andy Enright checks out the 2.2 i-DEC diesel version

Honda Civic 2.2 i-DTEC

Price: �20,095[2.2 i-DTEC SE 5dr] �26,595[2.2 i-DTEC EX GT 5dr]

0-62 mph: 8.5[2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr] 8.8[2.2 i-DTEC EX GT 5dr]

Max speed: 135

Co2 (g/km): 110[2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr] 115[2.2 i-DTEC EX GT 5dr]

Combined mpg: 64.2[2.2 i-DTEC EX GT 5dr] 67.3[2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr]

Length (mm): 4,300

Width (mm): 1,820

Height (mm): 1,470

Weight (kg): 1,910

Warranty (years): 3

Warranty (miles): 90,000

The print version of this article appeared in the February 2012 issue of Lancashire Life

We can deliver a copy direct to your door – order online here

If you’re tempted to write off this ninth generation Civic as little more than a facelift of the old car, then don’t be. Most of us reckon the old car to be the best looking family hatch made so changing a winning formula would have been stupid.

Instead, Honda’s design team has wisely settled for careful evolution, creating a shape that’s squatter and more purposeful.

The designers decided to keep the previous version’s split rear screen, much criticised by owners of the old Mk8 Civic. I’m glad it’s still here, giving this car a really distinctive rear aspect that’ll be easier to live with now that this narrower central bar has been dropped to create greater rear visibility with a rear wiper.

This feature is also integral to the class-leading aerodynamics, an area in which huge efforts have been expended. The overall result is certainly a sleek, sporty look..

As usual, if you need more room, you can push forward the 60:40 split-folding rear backrest in a simple dive-down motion to create a completely flat 1210-litre load bay.

But that isn’t what’ll stick in your mind about this car. Take a seat behind the wheel. There isn’t a cockpit I can think of this side of a motorshow concept car that looks more wilfully futuristic with its dual-plane architecture and mixture of analogue and digital instrumentation. In principle, it sounds like a mixed-up mess. In practice, it all works brilliantly.

‘Kaizen’, the Japanese approach to ‘continuous improvement’, characterises every aspect of this ninth generation Civic. It may look similar to its predecessor but it’s a couple of generations ahead when it comes to dynamics and engineering. And it shows that Honda isn’t afraid to go against the grain when designing a car of this kind. The difference with this MK9 design is that the designers have sorted previous problems.

So that owners can live with the benefits of their brave and characterful approach. The sporty feel of the engines. The brilliant ‘Magic Seat’ practicality of the cabin. And the concept car looks of distinctive rear styling that’ll have the neighbours craning their heads over the fence.

Add to all that class-leading running costs, brilliant British build quality and the best gearbox and driving position you’ll find and you’ve a tempting package perfectly suited to those willing to look beyond the Focus, Astra and Golf that most will choose in the family hatchback sector. Dynamic functionality was Honda’s goal in creating this car. They’ve achieved it.

For road test details, check with your local dealer.