CAR /
IMPRESSION
October 20, 2021
Test Drive: The New Civic—The 6MT Model is Flawlessly Executed
Top-Class Cornering Performance Among Recent New Cars
Currently, the new Civic is exclusively offered with a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This pure internal combustion engine, without any electrical assistance, is "armed" with features such as a high-efficiency turbo, low-pressure loss intake piping, a 4-2 exhaust port cylinder head, a highly rigid crankshaft and oil pan, and VTEC exhaust. It produces a maximum output of 134 kW (184 ps) at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 240 Nm between 1,700 and 4,500 rpm. I took the 6-speed manual transmission model, which accounts for nearly 40% of initial orders, out onto the winding roads around Yatsugatake.
First, let's talk about the manual shift operation. Thanks to the shift gate, which has been upgraded from resin to a more rigid material mixed with aluminum, the lever movement is satisfyingly firm and precise, with short throws. It shifts into the desired gear with a mere flick of the wrist, which is enjoyable in itself. And when the tachometer needle passes 3,000 rpm, the slightly subdued Honda music begins to play, which is irresistible. The wide gear ratios allow you to enjoy the changing engine notes over a long period as it climbs to the redline, and the perfect match between engine sound and vehicle speed contributes to the exhilarating experience.
On the other hand, the shift lever's position is slightly shifted to the left, making it feel a bit far to reach for downshifts. Also, the engine's revs take a while to drop, which are a couple of minor points of concern.
Nevertheless, through thorough friction reduction and optimization of components such as dampers, ball joints, hubs, and bushings, the car effortlessly handles the rough patches of the test course while maintaining enjoyable cornering. Its performance ranks among the top-class of recent new cars. Furthermore, the road noise from the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 sport tires is effectively suppressed, and the cabin remains quiet at cruising speeds, which is also excellent.
The CVT model also left an impression with its non-"rubber band" shift feel, responsive acceleration and deceleration via paddle shifters, and quiet cabin. However, the sheer enjoyment of the MT model somewhat overshadowed it. This test drive has significantly heightened anticipation for the "Type R," rumored to arrive next year.
