Honda Civic Tourer: space meets style

The newcomer’s arrival means that the Honda Civic family now embraces three body styles, comprising sedan, hatchback and wagon variants.

Distinctively shaped, with a low-slung silhouette and an emphasis on function-driven design, the Civic Tourer offers exceptional utility, eco-friendly technology and high comfort levels in a package that provides a compelling alternative to conventional cross-over models.

Given its athletic demeanour, one might be surprised that the Civic Tourer provides such class-leading space, with a capacious cargo area, and the unique benefit of Honda’s renowned Magic Seats, which create even more versatile loading options. Benefitting even further from a low loading sill, wide-opening tailgate, and flat cargo floor.

At the same time, the Civic Tourer retains the fleet-footed dynamics, composed handling and agile reactions of its Civic stablemates.

The 1.8 litre i-VTEC engine is credited with a generous 104kW of maximum power, combined with 174Nm of torque. It drives the front wheels via a choice of six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearboxes. The latter’s steering column-mounted shift paddles provide rapid and intuitive manual gear changes, in addition to the convenience of fully automatic operation.

Performance is brisk, with the manual gearbox version completing the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.5 seconds, with a top speed of 210km/h it is said. At the same time, the Honda’s efficient drivetrain allows a combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of just 6.6 litres per 100km it is claimed.

The suspension finds a satisfying compromise between comfort, response and load carrying capability, ensuring that the Civic Tourer remains true to the engaging driving experience the Honda marque has long been renowned for.

Meticulously produced in Honda’s Swindon, UK manufacturing plant, the Civic Tourer reflects high levels of quality, with a particular emphasis on creating a pleasing tactile interface between the car and its occupants.

Soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery and an ergonomically efficient cockpit layout, together with an extensive list of standard features, ensure that the time spent inside the Civic Tourer is a comfortable and enjoyable one.

Honda’s reputation for producing exceptionally safe cars is further emphasised by the Civic Tourer, which has already attained a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, thanks to its extensive array of active and passive safety systems.

“The arrival of the new Honda Civic Tourer marks a significant milestone for Honda, both locally and abroad,” says Graham Eagle, sales and marketing director of Honda Motor Southern Africa.

He adds that while Honda’s CRV provides a number of options to SUV buyers, the Civic Tourer’s sleek aesthetics, car-like dynamics and comprehensive features list creates an attractive alternative to the plethora of crossover and compact SUV models.

Like its stable mates, the new estate is covered by a three-year/ 100 000km warranty, a five-year/ 90 000km service plan, and a one-year roadside assistance package.