The first Honda Civic introduced about 40 years ago was the affordable Made in Japan cute, little Honda, two-door subcompact. Fast forward to 2019 and the 10th generation range-topping Honda Civic has become a Japanese BMW. A cool, mean machine in Brilliant Sporty Blue paint job with a 1,2 million THB sticker price.
Design
First impression. A long, sleek saloon ( sedan). Look again! It’s more like an upscale coupe, or fast back. Wider and l ower than the previous models. Front view sports a high-gloss black grille and newly designed air large intakes, full LED daytime running headlights and ice cube LED fog lights. The rear view features an sporty, thin, angular spoiler, a Bavarian Bimmer resembling RS shark fin roof antenna and the distinctive tall, red C-shaped LED taillights plus three badges: CIVIC, RS in red and TURBO spell it out. Side view shows that this high spec Civic is really longer and sharper looking than the previous models. The 17-inch five-spoke alloys wheels are part of the new Honda design language.
Interior/Safety
The Civic RS Turbo has a driver-oriented layout with black leather upholstery and red contrast stitching. In the cockpit an oversized padded center armrest/console is super functional also for storage. Dashboard with digital instrument cluster in bright red color theme and 7-inch touch screen infotainment system with Apple and Android connectivity. Honda’s navigation on the 7-inch screen is outstanding. The chunky leather wrapped driver’s steering wheel comes with all the buttons and sporty paddle shifters. Power seats for driver and co-driver (passenger).
Plus smartly hidden power outlets for chargers and connectors. Overall spacious and comfy cabin. The rear seat has adequate space for two occupants, fold down soft armrest with cup holders. Safety: The range topping Turbo RS includes Honda’s intelligent SENSING safety package with LaneWatch blindspot camera and the Forward Collision Warning. Also the three-angled HD reversing camera. Plus the sharp, bright high beam LED headlights for safe parking and nighttime driving.
Engine
Civic RS Turbo is powered by a 1.5-liter petrol-turbo motor producing 173 horse power and 220 Nm of torque. Drinks Gasohol 95 or E20. Thirst: 17,2 km/liter Powertrain: automatic CVT transmission. Driving modes: Normal, GreenEco and Sport. Eco/Normal perfect for urban traffic and congested roads. Sport for cruising overtaking (night time) on the Petchkasem highway run.
Drive/Verdict
At the end of my two days BKK-Hua Hin-BKK test drive. I was impressed with the solid, well-built feel of the Civic RS Turbo: the upscale interior; infotainment, safety features: the LaneWatch and the Forward Collision Warning. Another great feature: Remote Engine Start which turns on the engine and A/C before entering the car.
Driving impressions: Every time I put the gear selector in “S” sport mode and step on it! The turbocharger kicks in and on brings a big smile on my face. The old Honda Civic has come a long way since the first Civic was launched in 1972. Ten generations. “The Power of Dreams” Honda Tagline. Congratulations! Chapeau!
Honda Civic RS Turbo
Engine: 4-cylinder 1.5 liter petrol-turbo
Power: 173
Torque: 220 Nm
Transmission: CVT
0-100 km/h: 7,2 seconds
Top speed: 200+ km/h
Fuel consumption: 17.2 km/liter
Price: 1,219,000 THB
