Honda is not messing around. 2016 is a new year, and for the Civic especially, the game has changed. With a new platform comes loads of new features that slingshot the 2016 sedan over its less-than-stellar predecessors. We were one of the first to drive the new Civic when it showed up in Detroit, but now with a bit more one-on-one time in Honda’s superstar sedan, we really learned to appreciate the quirks that make the new Civic a Civic.
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Center Console
The
word ‘nifty’ might be underused—but Honda knows how to perfectly
encapsulate the term, and convert it into a number of new features on
the interior of the 2016 Civic. The first of which being the center
console. Yes, the center console.
For
most buyers, the center console comes as an afterthought. It’s only
later that you realize the need for something as thoughtful and
useful as the one in the new Civic. Two cup holders, and a sliding
leather armrest that also folds up to show off a healthy amount of
storage space. The final touch: a small, sliding tray for keys. It’s the
definition of nifty.
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USB Holder
A USB
holder likely isn’t at the top of anyone’s shopping list, but when you
realize just how cumbersome the USB cord actually becomes, only then do
you yearn for something more efficient. Honda figured that out too.
The
floating dash allows you to plug in your USB through a nearly invisible
port, and run the cord up to the designated phone pocket. Not only does
it keep wires out of the way, but allows for more safety, forcing
drivers to use the ample amount of handsfree systems rather than reach
for their phones.
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Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Speaking
of handsfree, Honda fit the new Civic with one of the most advanced,
easy-to-use systems in the business. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
are available for use by consumers. The system pairs mostly seamlessly
with your phone and allows a simpler, more modern approach to the
outdated infotainment system.
Digital Dash
To
further put drivers at ease (of use), the fully-digital dash and
instrument clusters allow for a simple scroll through of options. Music,
MPG, speed—all at your fingertips. Paired to Honda’s well-thought-out
set of steering wheel controls, the simplicity in which the system works
should be taken note of by other automakers.
Brake Hold
If
you’re unfamiliar with the brake hold system, it’s easy to explain.
Simply press the brake hold button (above), and when stopped at a red
light, or in traffic, there’s no need to keep your foot on the brake.
The car does it for you. When you’re ready to shove off again,
just press the gas and the car starts off. It’s an extremely thoughtful,
yet surprisingly simple feature.
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Efficiency
The
mark of any good sedan is not only how the interior is suited to the
driver, but how the engine performs in terms of efficiency. The
1.5-liter turbo on the 2016 Honda Civic returns an impressive 42 mpg
highway, and 31 mpg city. That impressive MPG is segment leading, and
partly in thanks to an advanced CVT system that—if we’re being
honest—outperforms most others.
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Driving Dynamics
That
class-leading MPG and advanced CVT though, come only second to driving
dynamics. Poised, planted, personable—the Honda Civic is all three.
Compared to sporty sedans like the Mazda 3, the Civic is in a class of
its own. Body roll is barely noticeable, sport mode allows for a higher
RPM band and more torque, and the steering gives enough feedback to the
driver while still remaining fluid in its movements.
Don’t be mistaken, the Honda Civic is as much a driver’s sedan as it is a millennial’s dream car.
Specs
Engine (as tested): 1.5L 4-Cylinder Turbo
Horsepower: 174
MPG: 31/42/35
Price (base): $18,640
Horsepower: 174
MPG: 31/42/35
Price (base): $18,640
Yes, Honda Civic is a classic of Japanese design and convenience combined with improvements in 2016. You know, the dash on the speedometer or the CVT system is not so vital itself, if I need a 1.5-liter turbo, most of all
ReplyDeleteI'll buy a better used Honda with mileage, check the VIN code https://www.faxvin.com/license-plate-lookup/maryland, and it will suit me as a driver for at least a couple more years. Yes, as a user, I like the global ideas of Honda,
but I think the surplus stuff and tricks for which the buyer should overpay from year to year is unnecessary.