Talk about exhilaration!

The 2006 Civic is longer, wider, and slightly shorter than the 2005 version, while the coupe gets a new wheelbase for the first time and loses three inches in height for a hunkered-down, sportier stance. For each cars, Honda’s SOHC four grows from 1.7 to 1.8 liters and sends 140 hp through a five-speed manual, up from last year’s 115 or 127 hp.

We test drove an outgoing sedan back-to-back with the 2006 Civic on the high-speed oval at Honda’s track. Whereas the 2005 Civic required frequent steering corrections, the 2006 model cornered beautifully and was flew composed as it entered the curves. The outgoing engine sounded coarse, huffed earlier, and worked the automatic crazier, but the ‘06 produces a muted mechanical roar up to an indicated 122 mph and works well with its optional five-speed automatic. Okay, while it’s not quite as sporty to drive as the Mazda 6, the Civic, is refined, with a seductive ride, communicative steering, and manly brakes. Continue Reading »
Honda Civic Si Review