Honda Civic variant dissection - Search for the value for money model

Honda Civic is running up and down the Malaysian roads for a while now. And is considered as a good family commute option. The car is stylish, looks classy, is packed with amenities, and comes with Honda’s trust and quality assurance. Honda Civic over the years has grabbed a lot of attention; which is evident from its reasonably good sales figure.

However, when a prospective buyer goes to check out this mid-size Honda sedan, one often gets confused between its three closely priced variants. The 10th generation Civic is available in three trim options -

Honda Civic 1.8S at RM 110,430
Honda Civic 1.5TC at RM 124,080
Honda Civic 1.5TC-P at RM 131,880

With an average difference of RM 10,000 between immediate variants, selection becomes even more difficult. To make a smart choice, a buyer needs to study each trim and the amenities on offer, to see if it fits their daily commute requirement.

Below we have compared all the three variants on some of the most critical aspects. Read and find out which among the three Civic variants is packed with features you’ll be using and will best-fits your lifestyle.

Engine

Honda Civic base variant, the 1.8S is powered by a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder SOHC i-VTEC engine that generates a maximum power of 141 PS at 6,500 rpm along with 174 Nm of torque at 4,300 rpm. Rest of the two trims, on the other hand, house a smaller but more efficient 1.5-litre 4-cylinder DOHC VTEC TURBO mill. This aluminum power box delivers a maximum power of 173 PS at 5,500 rpm and peak torque of 220 NM at 1,700-5,500 rpm.

Both the available engines are paired with CVT option that promises a smooth drive while maximizing the fuel efficiency. Thanks to Honda's Earth Dreams Technology, these mills enable Civic to deliver a mileage of 14-17 kmpl depending on the engine and driving condition. It accelerates from 0 to 100 mark in 10.4 seconds while achieving the top speed of 200 km, making it one of the fastest sedans in the segment.

Exterior

Looking all sleek and stylish, Honda Civic displays an overall sedan satisfactory dimension spec of 4,630mm X 1,799mm X 1,416mm (LXWXH). With a wheelbase of 2,700mm, Civic is sure to provide a spacious cabin and an even bigger boot capacity of 519 litres. On the front, the 1.8S and 1.5 TC variants are fitted with halogen headlights that get an LED update in the 1.5 TC-P trim. Same is the case with the front fog lamps.

All the trims come with auto headlight function, LED daytime running lights, and ORVM with turning lights. The top variants in addition to all this get chrome door handles that otherwise are body-colored.

Cabin Controls

Out of all the cabin amenities, the standard variant misses out on paddle shift, auto dim rearview mirror, premium interior garnish, leather upholstery, and dual auto air-con system. Rest all the features are shared between the three trims.

Therefore, get ready to see high-tech features like remote engine start, walk away auto lock, smart entry push start button, cruise control, and full-color LED meter. Working on the comfort front are 8-way driver power seat, and rear A/C vents. Besides, all Civic trims now come with ECON button that automatically adjusts the car systems assuring maximum fuel saving.

Entertainment

A 7-inch advanced audio system takes care of passengers entertainment needs. It is accompanied with connectivity features like 2 USB/HDMI ports, MP3/iPod, hands-free telephone with voice recognition, and a navigation feature that’s limited only to 1.5 TC-P trim.

Safety

Safety is one domain where all the trims feature a completely identical set of offerings. Even the standard variant comes with a hill-side assist, brake assist, ABS with EBD, vehicle stability assist, ultrasonic sensor, multi-angle rearview camera, tilt sensor, dual front, and side curtain airbags.

Ending note

After studying all the three trims up close, the only significant difference that we think can influence a buyer’s decision is the Civic’s engine specification. That too gets subsided, if you are looking for a work to home commute option and are not that much into speed and thrill. In the cabin, while the base variant may seem a little okay due to its fabric upholstery, it matches the other two in the comfort front. It is appreciating to see that Honda has maintained identical safety standards across all the three Civic variants.

The base and mid trims seem to be the best pick for a daily commuter. However, if navigation system and dual air-con system are something you cannot imagine your car without, go for the range-topping 1.5 TC-P variant.