Honda Civic (2006 – 2011) Review

Honda Civic (2006 – 2011) At A Glance

4/5

+Practical and comfortable cabin, huge amounts in interior space, great 2.2 i-CTDi diesel engine, well built and reliable, enjoyable to drive.

-Original 1.4-litre i-DSI engine was disappointing but 1.4 i-VTEC from 2009 is much better, i-CTDi diesel dropped from 2011, rear visibility hampered by window spoiler.

Insurance Groups are between 12–24
On average it achieves 91% of the official MPG figure

It's not a surprise to discover that Honda started with a blank piece of paper when it designed this Honda Civic. It's poles apart from its drab predecessor and makes other hatchbacks look positively ordinary. The Honda Civic is a model that has redefined the idea of car design, both inside and out - nothing else on the road looks quite like it.

The previous Honda Civic was a very capable car but suffered from an image problem. But this newer model is as East of Eastbourne as you can get. Its radical shape isn't merely form over function though, it helps aerodynamics and means there's masses of room inside, including a huge boot that puts other hatchbacks to shame.

It's also great to drive with sharp steering and little body roll in corners while the cabin is as futuristic as the outside with a unique appearance and layout which is not only stylish, but very easy to get on with. There are downsides, such as the awkward rear visibility due to the split rear windscreen. Then there's the small engine line-up with a choice of only three units.

However, one of these is the superb 2.2 i-CDTi diesel - one of the most refined and punchy diesels available which is ideal for long distance travel. Only the early 1.4 i-DSI is best avoided as it feels underpowered. Another good reason to consider the Civic is its excellent reliability and build quality, while Honda dealers tend to be some of the best in the business when it comes to customer satisfaction.

Honda Civic 2006 Road Test and Video

Real MPG average for a Honda Civic (2006 – 2011)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

91%

Real MPG

26–61 mpg

MPGs submitted

1604

Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.

Satisfaction Index

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Ask Honest John

I want a reliable, child-friendly car on a small budget. What do you suggest?

"I have a very low budget as I'm studying at the moment. I need a relatively roomy car as I have two young children so need space for a buggy and shopping. I would like low tax and my budget is £1600. I don't like French cars, I would prefer japanese. I recently sold my imported Toyota BB - which I loved and would really love something quirky again but the budget won't allow it as far as I can tell. I understand a Honda Jazz would be in my price range but apparently there are issues with insurance on cars with catalytic converters at the moment. Is this something I need to consider?"
A Honda Jazz sounds perfect but yes, they do seem to be prone to the theft of catalytic converters. If you're concerned about the effect this will have on insurance prices, shop around for quotes first - this should help your search: https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/cheap-car-insurance/ A Toyota Yaris would be a good alternative (although it's not as spacious as the Jazz), or maybe a bigger family hatch like a Toyota Auris or Honda Civic.
Answered by Andrew Brady

Reliable used car for £5000 or less

"My wife's car has given up the ghost. I'm therefore looking to buy a used car for £5000 or less, that will hopefully last for the next five years. Obviously, reliability and running costs are really important, and given the size of children it would need to be bigger than a city car. What should we be considering?"
Around £5000 will get you a tidy example of a Honda Civic from around 2011. It should be reliable and will be practical enough for your wife and kids. Also, consider a Skoda Octavia - it's got a huge boot and is available as an estate, too.
Answered by Andrew Brady

My battery light flashes up intermittently - any idea why?

"I have a 2007 Honda Civic 2.2 diesel. My battery lights flash up intermittently until I accelerate, then it goes off. The battery light isn't illuminated as long as I keep the main lights on. Any ideas what the issue is?"
Your battery is a bit low. The light goes out once the alternator gives it a bit of a charge. Putting the lights on tells the alternator to supply more charge to the electrical system generally.
Answered by Honest John

My Honda i-Shift is jammed in gear - what is the likely cause?

"My Honda Civic 2007 i-Shift is jammed in gear. What is the likely cause?"
Failed actuator. This is why we constantly tell people not to buy i-Shifts or any other automated manuals. A member of http://www.fedauto.co.uk may be able to help.
Answered by Honest John
More Questions

What does a Honda Civic (2006 – 2011) cost?