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In the Lynx's favor, the four-wheel disc brake set-up on the GSi provides the best braking feel and stopping distance of the trio. The bite is immediate, imparting excellent driver confidence. Handling Like any top-level varsity athlete, these three provide nimble handling and lively reactions, generating broader grins compared to the more lethargic choices. The differences in ride and handling among them are immense. The Honda and the Ford feel has if they have been cut from the same block. Though having vastly different suspension bits and set-ups, both of these ride on independent front and rear suspensions, giving better corner control and bump absorption compared to the Toyota. One surprise is the Civic's compliant ride, despite its 15-inch tires versus the Lynx's 14's—a testament to Honda’s superior suspension geometry design. Pushed to the limit, both suffer from poor suspension travel—resulting in some uncomfortable bottoming-out. The Civic's rear end clunks frequently, due to the repositioned shock / spring system, which makes possible the flat rear floor, while the Lynx’s stiffer front-end MacPherson struts occasionally suffers from the same problem. Though both have good, quick and precise steering, the Honda’s quicker ratio and superior agility is evident after a back-to-back drive. Parking-lot maneuvering, however, is easier in the Lynx with its excellent visibility and standard back-up sensor. The Civic also suffers from the lack of grip through the corners, mainly because of the low-rolling-resistance Michelin Vivacy 185/65 15 tires. Though these OEM tires increase fuel efficiency and reduce wear-and-tear, it makes the Honda suffer from tire squeal when executing tight turns. On the other hand, the Goodyear NCT3s on the Lynx don’t seem to suffer from the same problem. In comparison to other two’s go-kart feel, the Corolla reveals the most mature, most grown-up and most tepid behavior. Though perfectly able and willing in a straight line and slight bends, the Toyota’s cornering manners leave much to be desired. The Altis suffers from bags of understeer, requiring more turns of the steering wheel to correct. Communication between the driver and the road is not on the same level of the Civic's or Lynx's. |
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