Honda Civic Hatchback (2000 - 2005) 1.6i VTEC SE 3d (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Non-conformist, quirky yet sensible, quite rare as I can't have seen more than 50 other examples of my car in both SE and Sport trim variants. I think those that have one know how good it really is.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Solid, reliable, value for money.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, what was good in 2004 was that even at 12 grand it offered fantastic value for money combined with robust quality. I would have haggled harder, the Sport trim was not worth £1,600 more new but it satisfied a market requirement for Type-R wannabe's.

What are you likely to buy next?

I want the new Honda CR-Z, but as I have a new job at work I have to take a company car and unfortunately there are no Honda's. My philosophy for German / Japanese remains so I have ordered a BMW 118d M-Sport as the emissions make the tax liability £50 pm.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£12,000

When did you buy the car?

August 2004

Did you get a good deal and why?

In short no, did not drive the deal, especially as there was a 7 week lead time on orders. Went to the dealership with my Father who promptly disappeared to leave me floundering to get a decent discount. However, did get floor mats, and 1/2 tank of petrol.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

In my experience when buying new with your own cash the only options should be either German or Japanese. Not prepared to buy Ford / Vauxhall or VW, I thought that the Civic was different to other mid-size hatches with a clear technological history and build quality.

What was the dealer like?

Efficient, straight-forward, hassle free and did not belittle me with sales rubbish.

What's it like to drive?

After 5+ years it is still a fine drive, the throttle is responsive, the gear change is slick and the brakes are good, yes the steering is a little light but it is so easy to drive 300+ miles cross-country.

What's it like to park?

The stubby nose is the size from a smaller sized car and makes reverse parking an absolute doddle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

There have been no issues in 5+ years. The only thing to watch for is standard 3 door cars that have been driven hard by their young drivers, the gearbox bearings will go if constantly ragged around in first and second gears.

What's most practical about your car?

For it's age it has the best non-sports 1.6 litre engine, the fuel consumption is much better than equivalent marques.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Sports seats in the 2004 facelifted model are good but there is no adjustment on the side bolsters.