ACKNOWLEDGED as one of the best family cars money can buy, the Honda Civic has been further boosted with the introduction of the latest diesel engine.
Honda has been a latecomer to the diesel scene but the attention to detail which created some of the liveliest and most rewarding petrol power-plants has developed a diesel which is at the very cutting edge of sophistication.
First seen in the 2.2-litre Accord, the same diesel design has been "shrunk" to slip under the bonnet of the hatchback Civic and it has lost nothing in terms of performance and refinement.
In fact, it is so responsive and powerful some drivers may think they are sitting behind a petrol engine, but an eye-opening fuel economy will refocus their thoughts.
The four-cylinder engine provides immediate start-up and pulls unhesitatingly and strongly, ideal for urban use and heavy loads. As it powers away it is not very noisy, in fact some petrol engines complain more than the Civic diesel, and it is very smooth.
The five-speed gearbox is a very good match with ideal ratios to make a sharp getaway and it's long-legged enough to gobble up the motorway miles and still return impressive fuel figures.
I liked the progressive clutch and the reassuringly strong brakes underfoot while the steering imparts a lot of feedback without feeling too heavy.
Instruments are simple and clearly displayed, although some may prefer greater detailing on the dials, and the secondary switches all come close to hand and finger.
Heating and ventilation is straightforward and the air conditioning works well and you have standard powered front and rear windows even if there is no sunroof available.
There's plenty of oddment space in the cabin and the boot expands from 370 litres to over 730 litres while it will adequately seat up to five, although elbow room would be tight with three in the back.
Those in the front have plenty of room, however, with a good range of adjustment on the seats and all occupants enjoy a lot of support and good location during brisk cornering.
Ride quality is slightly on the side of firm but it remains very comfortable and the Civic copes very well with all manner of surfaces. You can, however, hear how well the Civic absorbs the bumps.
Handling is not as pin sharp as a hot hatchback, but this is a Honda which is essentially designed by enthusiasts for driving enjoyment, so it is safe and swift and I guarantee it will bring a smile to your face.
The power delivery is good but it does not set any new standards against the stopwatch.
It does set a new standard for diesels in this size and class, however. So, if you are in the market for a well equipped family diesel, this is a Honda Civic you could drive with pride.
FAST FACTS
Honda Civic 1.7 CDTI SE 5dr
Price: £14,013
Mechanical: 100bhp, 1,686cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 113mph
0-62mph: 11.5secs
Combined mpg: 56.5
Insurance group: 7
CO2 emissions: 134g/km
BiK rating:18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 90,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 6yrs anti-rust