New Honda Civic on sale October 1 13 | 09 | 2011

THIS IS THE all-new, Swindon-built Honda Civic which will enter Scottish showrooms on October 1. This, the ninth-generation Civic, boasts much-improved dynamics and a higher-quality interior.

Honda says many of the changes from the previous generation, built into the new model, were a direct response to customer feedback.

Apparently they approved of the previous car’s futuristic design, which led to the basic look and proportions being retained; they did though request improved aerodynamics and better rear and side visibility.

With a claimed drag coefficient of 0.27, the result, according to Honda, is the most aerodynamic car in its class.

See more photos of the all-new Honda Civic

The initial engine line-up consists of revised versions of the current 1.4-litre and 1.8 petrol units and the 2.2 i-DTEC diesel from the Accord; all three enjoy improved performance, economy and CO2 emissions, which are as low as 110g/km in the 2.2 diesel.

A new 1.6 diesel powerplant, which Honda believes will be crucial to the growing success of the new Civic, will arrive later in 2012.

Despite having a 30mm shorter wheelbase — as result, apparently, of incorporating more safety equipment — Honda states the interior space has remained unchanged, labelling it as “class leading”.

Another positive is that, despite the new Civic enjoying higher levels of standard equipment and a significant boost in interior quality, prices — which won't be revealed until the on-sale date — are expected to remain in line with those of the current model.

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Jim McGill