Production Models

2016 Honda Civic RS Turbo Review

It's fair to say that the Civic made Honda. Since the nameplate's introduction in 1972, it has become renowned the world over for its class-leading dynamics and fuel efficiency. In the decades that followed, it revolutionized "the car for all people" and has thus embodied Honda's challenging spirit. This latest one still captures that spirit seen in the way it's won numerous awards including our very own Auto Focus People's Choice Award last year. So now, let us see how this award-winner performs.

A glance at the all-new Civic and it's hard to get your gaze permanently fixed to it. The sloping fastback roofline, aggressive styling, and complex fascia all create a tidy yet sporty appearance. At the back, the distinctive C-shaped "light pipes" serve as the perfect exclamation point.

Inside, the Civic presents a modern and sophisticated looking interior. The dash itself is simple, laid out in a horizontal manner and together with the sweeping ends, creates a feeling of space unmatched by any other compact car. Sitting in for the first time, the abundance of space is noticeable. Plus, there's so much cubby holes Interestingly, the rear seats now fold in a 60/40 split, supplementing the already cavernous trunk. Quality-wise, all the touch points have been upgraded with soft touch plastics, brushed aluminum accents, piano black trims, and leather (with carbon fiber-like detailing on the seats).

Getting comfortable in the Civic is quite easy with the 6-way power adjustable driver's seat. The steering wheel also offers tilt/telescopic adjustment and because it's angled more vertically, offers a sportier driving position. With the key fob in the pocket, starting the engine requires just a push of a button.

The full-color TFT instrument cluster comes to life with breathtaking animation before settling down for business. Apart from showing the usual vehicle information-speed, engine revs, and so forth-it's also configurable to display entertainment functions, turn-by-turn navigation, fuel mileage information, and even a turbo gauge.

The 7-inch Advanced Display Audio, a common feature in new Hondas, is finally updated with sharper graphics and animation. It looks and operates much snappier, but the wealth of new functions requires a quick read of the manual to understand.

Much more straightforward is the way the 2016 Civic operates. Aiming to set the bar in the compact sedan category once more, Honda has worked on areas such as steering feel, handling precision, ride quality, and NVH. In other words, responding to all the failings of the previous generation model.

The powertrain alone is enough to give it a leg up with its brand-new Earth Dreams 1.5-liter DOHC VTEC engine featuring both direct injection and a mono scroll turbo. It produces a maximum output of 173 horsepower and 216 Nm of torque. Power delivery is extremely linear, providing tractable performance even from idle. The engine note is also satisfying with the right amount of growl. The CVT isn't the first choice of enthusiasts to pair with the engine, but it's a good match this time.

Riding on an all-new platform, the Civic has reduced its bulk by around 30 kilograms but has upped its torsional rigidity by 26 percent. And connected to this is a suspension system that enhances ride and reduces vibrations. Coupled with this is new dual pinion electric power steering rack with a quick 2.2 turns lock-to-lock. It's a big step compared to previous models in the way it turns and makes the entire car rotate briskly. The steering is light, but linear. The excellent sight lines also make it easy to position through corners. Overall, it feels less tiring to drive than another compact car with a sporty bent.