And now for something different

The Honda Civic has always been a more interesting choice for buyers in the Focus-sized family hatchback segment.

This completely new version is the 10th generation model and has 40 years of heritage to build upon.

There’s a more spacious, dynamiclooking body, stronger standards of safety and media connectivity and, perhaps most importantly, two completely fresh petrol engines.

Top of Honda’s “to do” list in developing this model was to sort out the petrol side of the engine range.

The 1.4 and 1.8-litre i-VTEC units offered with the previous ninth generation model were an embarrassing distance away from the class standard in terms of efficiency but that’s all changed now.

Instead, with this MK10 model, there’s an entry-level three cylinder one-litre turbo unit with 129hp and a larger four cylinder 1.5-litre turbo powerplant with 182hp (figures in the Vital Stats section are for the smaller engine in base spec).

Both have more power and torque than the old engines could offer and come with the choice of either sixspeed manual or CVT automatic transmission.

There’s a sleek and swept-back shape this time around, with larger, wider wheels emphasising a sportier stance.

There’s the most comprehensive aerodynamic packing in the segment, including complete under-body panelling.

Inside, the previously rather confusing cabin has been completely redesigned, with higher quality materials and a simpler, more sophisticated design theme that includes a new digital instrument binnacle.

At the top of the centre console, there’s a 7in Honda Connect 2 colour touchscreen display.

The driving position is lower and buyers should certainly notice the extra cabin space thanks to the larger body.

Passengers on the rear seat get 95mm more legroom as well as 45mm more knee clearance.

Out back, luggage space remains class-leading, with 478 litres on offer in the hatch version – expect a Tourer estate to follow.

There’s a three-year, 90,000 warranty, which is better than most rivals’ 60,000-mile deal.

A lot of boxes have been ticked, yet it’s clear that Honda has also worked hard to maintain this car’s more characterful approach.

Add in British build quality, a great driving position and strong standards of safety and you’ve got a very appealing package indeed.

There’s a sleek and swept-back shape