Honda Civic Turbo 2016 car review

The new Civic features a 1.5L, DOHC VTEC, turbo engine, which is sure to put a smile on the dial of Honda enthusiasts, especially when you see how fuel efficient the turbo engine is. The Civic boasts EarthDreams technology – a direct fuel injection and transmission combo that delivers a unique mix of driving enjoyment with outstanding environmental performance.

127kW of power is generated through the 7-speed, paddle shift transmission, creating a reasonable fuel economy figure of 6.0L/100km. For even more savings, just hit the green ‘Econ’ button. This modifies the engine, transmission, regenerative braking (if equipped), and the air conditioning and cruise control systems, to improve the vehicle’s overall energy use.

Three types of turbo

There are plenty of options to choose from with the three turbo variants on offer. The entry Turbo model offers 17” alloy wheels, auto lights, intelligent auto rain sensing wipers, plus much more, without breaking the bank.

Sports fans may be more interested in the RS model. Building upon the entry Turbo, the RS adds special detailing, red illumination, drilled alloy sports pedals, heated seats and an 8-way, electrically adjustable driver’s seat.

The NT Turbo is the cream of the crop and for its premium price tag, you get LEDs lights, sunroof, Garmin SatNav with Suna live traffic updates and an extensive Honda Sensing safety package. Honda Sensing is an interconnected suite of intelligent driver assist technologies designed to help improve your situational awareness, and, in some cases, it will intervene to help avoid a collision or lessen its severity. The forward collision warning system was a little sensitive at times, preventing quick, pulling out manoeuvres.

The NT Turbo offered a good balance between sport and a touch of luxury. When I got in, the navigation was initially set to Australia and so it took a bit of coaxing to get it to register New Zealand maps. Even after this was installed, it only displayed main roads with no arterials.