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| Ratings |
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| Comments |
Favorite feature: |
Exhaust note, Excellent Handling |
Least favorite feature: |
Slightly bumpy ride on b roads |
Advice to buyer: |
Order now, you'll probably have to wait a few months. |
Detailed review: |
I ordered the Alabaster Silver colour, and it looks beautiful. The rear wing spoiler and 17' rims really go a long way in helping to distinguish the Si from the rest of the Civic Coupes. It looks very fast even at a standstill, mostly due to the very aggressive angle of the windshield as well as a very aerodynamic body. I was a bit afraid that it might seem too futuristic or gaudy but I've come to find it's one of the most pleasing designs out there today.
The interior is nothing short of outstanding. The gauges were initially a little odd looking in the showroom, but after 30 seconds of driving it felt normal. The ergonomics are very good - everything is just there in front of you, in the position you'd expect it to be. I can't get over the feel of the buttons - they feel like they are from an upscale or luxury car. The cup holders are brilliantly designed and there are lots of cubby holes around for storing things. There is an additional power outlet in the centre console. The stereo is very good for stock, with decent bass from the 8' subwoofer and clear sound from the rest of the speakers. I appreciate the MP3 CD capability and the Aux In jack for my iPod. I can't understand how people whine about not having a 6 CD changer when you can fit 8 hours of music on a single MP3 CD. A better option is to buy an iPod for a third of the price of the CD changer and have access to all of your music. The drilled aluminium pedals with rubber inserts are a very nice touch, as are the faux suede seats. The amber illumination from the overhead light and from the dash reminds you that this is a potent sport compact and seems easier to read than blue illumination.
As for driving, this thing is a little screamer. With an 8500 rpm rev limiter and 197 HP, this car really gets moving once the revs get up there. The exhaust note is incredible past 6000rpm which is when the engine switches cams. The limited slip differential helps you corner and accelerate at the same time by transferring more power to the outside wheel. This is a huge advantage being a front wheel drive vehicle. The six speed gearshift has very short throws, and is an absolute pleasure to drive with. With a short gearing ratio, you have to shift gears more often, but this keeps you engaged during commuting and keeps you in the power band with hard acceleration. The catch point on the clutch is nearly immediate, it took some getting used to initially, but I appreciate how quick and effortless it is to shift gears. This car corners beautifully, basically point and shoot in dry conditions. The sport seats really keep you held in place while the car corners effortlessly. The suspension is quite stiff, and it can be a bit too much on bumpy roads, but that is the price you pay for outstanding cornering ability. On normal A-Roads, it is a very civilized and comfy ride, and the car can be pushed with ease.
I couldn’t be happier with this car. |
Also considered: |
2005 Mazda RX-8
2006 Acura RSX
2006 Mazda MAZDA3
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| About This Reviewer... |
Location: |
Beverly Hills, California |
Other vehicles owned: |
None
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Review submitted: |
February 06, 2006 |
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