When the photo shoots at the Viewdeck were done, it was time for the author to assume the role of driver in the next 26 kilometers on the way to the Wharf. This leg entailed testing for pulling power and responsiveness in a series of uphill and downhill bends as well as patches of long straights. The moment the group rolled out, everyone jabbed on the right pedal and set the digital speedometer rocketing. On hard acceleration, all 140 horses were singing to the delightful tune of 6,300 rpm redline. The Civic simply gobbled up the straights like they weren’t there and it responded almost telepathically to the driver’s commands. Though not equipped with a paddle shift (only available on the 2.0S-L), the transmission remained a great ally in overtaking maneuvers, even if you decide to tackle three 10-wheelers at the same time. On saner speeds, the new transmission is devoid of shift shock and can take on a very smooth personality.
Once the party reached the bending roads, the Civic’s small diameter steering wheel (reminiscent of the S2000 sportscar) was a great partner to the responsive suspension. The car took directional changes pretty well, exhibiting good control and stability. Never once did it feel nervous. It seems that twisty mountain roads, as is turtle pace Manila traffic, are the Civic’s playground. Everyone was also glad that the “axle hop” problem of the previous model was eradicated. Inside, everyone was simply having a good time. Ira and Randy were enjoying the Civic’s supportive seats with excellent side bolstering (good for sideway hijinks) as well as the impressive audio system (Stereo/CD/MP3 with a center-console mounted Aux-In jack). The Aux-In was a particular joy, as finally a manufacturer placed the input jack near the driver’s reach with a closeable console pocket. There’s no need to fumble across to the glove box to change a track or two on your iPod in this car.
After about two hours of driving, the 4 Honda Civics finally made it to its final destination: Honda Bay Wharf. From here, the journalists will make their way by boat to their accommodations at Dos Palmas Arreceffi. After an almost disastrous start, everyone felt happy and content after driving the Civic. Everyone had nothing but praise—and this opinion held even after a couple of beers (which means it’s sincere). Even before the Civic reached the Philippines, it was already generating a lot of buzz elsewhere. After driving and spending some time with it, the rumors are definitely true. The Honda Civic is one car that’s set to rewrite the rules by which others follow. This is the benchmark in its class, and this one just raised the bar ten fold.
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| The Civic's interior is a return to quality with nice textures and a welcoming color combination that's refreshingly not beige. |
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| New MultiPlex meter should improve driving comfort. It takes some getting used to, but it works. |
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| New 1.8-liter i-VTEC unit is not short on refinement and pulling power. It still doesn't have the low-end grunt of Toyota's VVTi unit though. |
