The diesel Civic still has the striking appearance of the petrol version. With crazy angles and grates coming at you from all angles, it really is a breath of fresh air in this sector where styling can be a little the same among all the brands.

The new Civic is a sizeable car in comparison to the original, which was available in Ireland in the 1980s. The wedge shape of that car is long gone, with this current model being the most daring bit of styling that is available in the Irish market at the minute. It could divide the crowd but I think it is nice to see something very different.

Sitting into the Civic, the styling is more subdued but still not lacking in its quirks. The test car was a premium-spec model which came with two-tone leather seats and all the technology. Once you look beyond the nice seats, the only gripe I have with the Civic is that the plastics can feel a little lower rent than the seats. Not an issue in the overall picture.

On the road

After the diesel engine was fired up, with a slightly more boisterous noise than expected, it quietened very quickly once it got into its rhythm and became a barely audible background noise.

The test car came with a very slick six-speed gearbox that would be at home in a far sportier version of the Civic. Once on the move, the Civic’s power plant was a pleasure with lots of mid-range pull to allow the use of fifth and sixth gear to do most of the motoring once up and running.

With 120bhp, this car is no slouch and gets along swiftly if required. On the motorway, the Honda is very capable with lots of helpful technology on show. The adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist system is one of the best I’ve driven, even in comparison to some of the premium German brands.

It is as close to autonomous driving as you will ever need with how it tracks the car in front and guides you between the lines with subtle nudges though the steering system.

The infotainment system is easy to use and has all the usual bits and in-built Garmin satnav. Even with this branded system, Google Maps on the phone via the Bluetooth audio is still my satnav of choice.

Once off the motorway, the Civic is a great car to drive with all the driving joy you’d expect from a sporty Honda but without the outright speed. It is engaging but not overly swift.

The steering is sharp and the throw of the gearbox is short and snappy enough to make changes entertaining.

The engine is good but not great in these surroundings and the incredible fuel economy that is possible on the open road can very easily be ruined by being heavy footed in the twisty stuff.

Verdict

The New Civic diesel is doing its best to keep diesel alive with its phenomenal fuel economy figures and a very enjoyable driving experience.

The Civic is a very good car that is sometimes overlooked by buyers in this class of car who go straight to the Golf without looking at the other options.

This car with its different styling is a serious contender to the aforementioned reigning king of the diesel hatchbacks.

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