The Honda Civic has been around forever. Well, over fifty years to be precise. A few years ago, I got to drive a first-generation model, which was an absolute delight. A small car, with delicate controls and modest performance, it had much to commend it over its European rivals of the day.

On test here is the 11th generation model, and styling-wise, it is a marked improvement over its predecessor, which has always looked a bit of a hotchpotch. I am told Honda Europe took charge this time around, which is good news, as we are somewhat more discerning than the Japanese and American markets. Sadly, the Civic is no longer built in Swindon, with Honda’s plant shutting in 2021.

To keep it fresh, there have been some recent styling updates, though it takes a bit of a geek to spot them. So, there are changes to the front grille and lighting. Reprofiled the bumper and diamond cut alloy wheels for my top-spec ‘Advance’ model. The ‘Sonic Grey Pearl’ is new, but other more striking colours are available!

On the inside, a few titivations, the 10.2-inch driver digital display being the most notable, are said to offer clearer graphics and improved visibility. It works well.

I feel there is some evidence to suggest that new car buyers may at last be wondering if SUV ownership is right for them. Bigger, heavier, and usually less fuel-efficient, the current fuel price crisis may well see the resurgence of the hatch. So, along with the ever-popular Jazz, the Civic is well placed to mop up sales.

The current Civic has a hybrid powertrain for the first time. The system is the same as in the HR-V and Jazz models, but the Civic uses a 2.0-litre direct injection petrol engine in conjunction with two electric motors. One acts as a generator, while the other provides propulsion. It works well in practice.

The gearbox is a CVT, which does tend to get mixed reviews. In everyday driving refinement is good, but full-bore acceleration for, say, a quick overtake, tends to see revs shoot up towards the red line with plenty of noise to boot. Both Jazz and HR-V are thus afflicted, so it was a pleasant surprise to find that Honda engineers were busy.

The new engine has more torque, and there’s more electric boost, so matters are considerably improved. Covering over 400 miles in a week behind the wheel, I can report that there’s power aplenty even at motorway speeds.

Honda quotes 56.5mpg for the combined cycle, and I recorded 49.4mpg at the end of my week behind the wheel. Others with a more delicate right foot should do considerably better. Low emissions of just 114g/km CO₂ will be of huge appeal to the company car driver.

The Civic has grown in length but is lower than its predecessor. Coupe-style looks are all very well, but there is headroom aplenty even in the back seats. The wheelbase has been extended too, and the track widened, both of which improve the car’s stability on the road.

Interior quality has been improved, with less scratchy plastics in evidence. There is a feeling of durability though, which is reassuring for buyers who like to keep their cars for a long time.

Those familiar with the Civic Mk 10 will be pleased to see a new touchscreen infotainment system has been fitted to the newbie. It works well but is still not as stylish or well-integrated as some of the car’s rivals.

Three trim grades are available, and all are laden with equipment. My top ‘Advance’ test car boasted synthetic leather seats, electrically adjustable up front; a glass panoramic roof; adaptive headlights; a premium audio system; and a larger infotainment screen. All this for £39,295, though a range-opening ‘Elegance’ model can be on your driveway for £33,795.

I must confess to being quite impressed by the Honda Civic. Not only does it look good, but it’s also quite fun to drive, comfortable, practical, and frugal in the real world. What’s more, with Honda’s enviable reputation for reliability, it should offer trouble-free motoring for many years to come.

Fast Facts
• Honda Civic e:HEV Advance
• Price £39,295 OTR
• 1993cc petrol engine plus 2 electric motors
• CVT transmission
• 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds
• Top speed 112mph
• Combined economy 56.5mpg
• Emissions 114g/km CO2