The 2016 Honda Civic was first displayed to the public last year by the automaker at Los Angeles Studio and gained the attention of every car enthusiast around the world. However, Honda Motor Co. Africa and Middle East Office, has unveiled the next gen Civic just recently at the Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach in Dubai. The 2016 Honda Civic is available in three grades: LXI, EXI and the range topping RS. I took a test drive of the 2016 Honda Civic RS, and here are my findings.
Walk Around
The Honda Civic 2016 has been completely redesigned boasting a much improvised and aggressive persona, making it look like a sports car. The Civic RS 2016 extends stylish inline LED headlamps, black coloured front grille, illuminated license plate, trunk spoiler for improved aerodynamics, LED fog lamps, dual exhaust tips and exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels.
Cockpit Impression
Compared to the previous model, the new Civic encompasses more refined and sophisticated interior design. Due to the longer wheelbase, the cabin is now more spacious and renders extra headroom and legroom. To give a luxurious feel, the front doors, armrest and front dash are covered in soft padded material.
The front panel comprises of a 7-inch touch display with USB ports and an integrated audio system. The Honda Civic RS also has a power sunroof providing a scenic view of the outside world.
Engine Specification of 2016 Honda Civic RS
The base engine offered in the 2016 Honda Civic is 2.0L 4 cylinder I-VTEC that produces 158 horsepower and 187N-m torque. However, the RS grade which I tested is equipped with a turbo-charged 1.5L 4 cylinder engine that churns out 180 horsepower and 220 N-m torque. Paired to the powertrain is a new CVT gearbox.
Driving Dynamics – 2016 Honda Civic Review
In terms of performance, the 2016 Civic RS is absolutely enthralling. While the powertrain offers a remarkable drive, the fuel economy is not neglected. The fuel economy I noted during my test drive was around 21 KM/L.
The acceleration is smooth on low RPM, but as you push down the pedal a little harder you feel like driving a sports car. The cabin is very quiet ensuring a pleasurable driving experience.
Technological Overview
One of the most attractive features I found inside the 2016 Honda Civic RS is the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Throughout the test drive, my phone was connected to the Android Auto and I was able to stream music wirelessly and even make phone calls through the Bluetooth hands-free telephone mounted controls on the steering wheel. Other notable standard technological facilities include Remote Engine Starter, Auto Day and Night Rear View Mirror, Electronic Power Steering, Push Button Start System and the Lanewatch feature that makes use of a camera installed below the side view mirror and provides an excellent rear view on the 7-inch display screen located in the centre.
Safety Features of Honda Civic 2016
The Civic 2016 has received OP SAFETY PICK+ rank from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), thus you can expect it to be fully equipped with the latest safety facilities such as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control Systems (TCS), Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS), Electronic Brake Distributor (EBD), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Dislike
While I believe people using the LXi an EXi grades may have a few complains, the RS trim is undoubtedly remarkable. The only thing I find missing is the manual gearbox option, which I expect to be launched in the next couple of years.
2016 Honda Civic Pictures
Verdict
The 2016 Honda Civic RS is a magnificent sedan with loads of enhanced and modern features that will make your driving experience pleasant and fun. The base price for LXi grade is AED 72,900 while the range topping RS Civic carries a price tag of AED 92,900. Head over to Honda Motors right now and take a test drive to find out more.