CARRYING a modernised version of the Japanese car maker’s trademark shape and style, the 2019 Honda Civic VTi-S has distinguishable good looks, and a touch of get up and go feel, thanks to its halogen headlights and black sports grille.
The newly added 16-inch alloy wheels give it a polished finish, and when combined with a range of metallic and pearlescent exterior colour choices, the combination complements the tenth generation of the popular Honda vehicle.
Driving the Civic gives a feeling of satisfaction, control and comfort, which is strengthened by the sporty suspension setup. Under the hood the four-cylinder, 1.8-litre i-VTEC translates into a respectable 104kW.
Fuel consumption in the VTi-S is a claimed 6.4-litres/100km, thanks to Honda’s Earth Dreams technology, which combines fuel efficiency and driving performance. Our testing offered 8.1-litres/100km, with some city and open road driving.
It does have a certain ‘hum’ about it when you’re driving though, which may be unusual for those who have become accustomed to near silence in some vehicles. The hum is increased when you accelerate.
Driving around the city and utilising the eight-speaker surround sound system means it is not dominant enough to be the focus though. The Civic sedan comes equipped with a range of standard safety features too, including i-SRS airbags.
In the event of an accident, they inflate to different degrees, depending on the impact and severity of crash. You’ll also be protected by electronic brake-force distribution, traction control and vehicle stability assist.
A multi-angle reversing camera with dynamic guidelines will help you with driving and parking, while the VTi-S also has lane watch, which is activated by the left-hand indicator and displays your blind spot on the 7-inch central display.
When emergency braking is required, the electronic brake assist applies maximum braking pressure on each wheel for further support, while ABS provides the Civic with extra stopping power.
There is still more that could be added in this area, with key safety features such as autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane keep assist only available in the VTi-L model and above.
Boasting modern conveniences such as key-less entry, walk away locking and push button start, the Civic VTi-S offers good value in comparison to its rivals. Its seats are finished in black fabric with a chequered accent.
A leather-wrapped steering wheel and rear privacy glass are standard. You can customise the overall feel and put your personal touch on the look of your Civic tough, with the standout accessory the flashy 17-inch red stripe alloy wheels.
The configuration of 60/40 split fold rear seats and a generous 525-litre boot means it’s spacious on the inside. Similar in terms of roominess to its rival, the Mazda3, the driver’s seat and surrounding area feels wider in the Honda.
A full car of five people is not out of the question, and a rear seat armrest with two cup holders offers extra comfort for those in the backseats. Technology has been improved in the 2019 Honda Civic range, and provides a flowing experience.
The enhanced multimedia system has shortcut buttons, and thankfully it also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Connectivity for navigation, music and messages, as well as a phone charging plate and voice recognition aid the driving experience.
So too, the 7.0-inch display, complete with space-like screen savers that complement the lit-up dash during the evening. The front console has a sleek layout, and there’s an eight-speaker stereo and DAB+ radio so you can create your own audio paradise.
The broad acceptance of DAB+ digital radio across the car industry gives you a wide variety and choice for your listening pleasure, at least in capital cities. It’s the little touches like this that make the Civic a complete package, that’s worth a look.
The range spans from the VTi to the Type R, with the VTi-S the step up from the base VTi. It’s priced at $25,490 plus on-roads and comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
The 2019 Honda Civic VTi-S is available in Phoenix Orange, Brilliant Sporty Blue, Rally Red, Modern Steel, Lunar Silver, Platinum White, Crystal Black and Cosmic Blue.
Our test vehicle was provided by Honda Australia. To find out more about the 2019 Honda Civic VTi-S, contact your local Honda dealer.
