‘New’ is a word that should be used sparingly when describing this facelifted Honda Civic, because the changes are subtle at best. Owners have told Honda they were happy with the design and proportion of the eleventh-generation car prior to this styling exercise.
Designers have listened, making teeny updates to the front two grilles, and front bumper that does away with the driving lights of old – something that has been made possible by moving these into the headlamp units, such is the pace of development with LED tech.
Another change of note are the eighteen-inch alloy wheels that come painted grey on top-specification ‘Advance’ trim, and black on ‘Sport’ examples. Speaking of paint, one new colour is offered, the eye-catching ‘Premium Crystal Blue’ stepping aside for the equally cool ‘Seabed Blue’. Also new for 2026 are the optional accessory accent colours, of which there are three to pick from: ‘Berlina Black’, ‘Nordic Silver’ and ‘Patina Bronze’.
Walk around to the back and not a lot is different. The same applies to the Civic’s interior, save for black upholstery and headlining, and a metallic finish for the air vent surrounds. Quality is bullet proof, the cabin blending the correct mix of soft touch and harder wearing materials, with all-important functions executed via nicely arranged knobs and switches.
In entry-level ‘Elegance’ (£33,795), wireless charging that is positioned within the centre console debuts alongside an auto dimming rear view mirror, keyless entry, front heated seats, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and adaptive cruise control. But the features that most are going to want are reserved for ‘Sport’ (£35,395) and consist of a heated steering wheel and Digital Driver Display that measures 10.2-inches. Go all out and ‘Advance’ (£38,695) badged cars pocket ambient lighting and illuminated footwells.
Under the bonnet, the Civic retains Honda’s impressive and efficient hybrid powertrain. For the most part, the system asks the two-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine to generate electricity that powers a compact 1.05kWh battery. This then supplies energy to the front axle-mounted electric motor, which does most of the lifting save for motorway speeds.
Much like the updates you have read about, the system is barely noticeable; it goes about its business with minimal fuss or fanfare in the background. It is silky smooth, with power delivery that feels natural and refined. If charge levels fall, the engine kicks in, although the only time you notice it is when accelerating hard. But with 181bhp available – meaning the Civic can launch itself from 0–62mph in just 7.8 seconds – such occasions are rare. Efficiency is on a par with diesel, with fuel economy hovering around 50mpg in our hands.
Out on the open road, the Civic scores strongly for ride comfort that is supremely judged, levelling out crude bumps and potholes without feeling spongy or soft. Dynamically, body control is excellent, front end grip levels are strong, and the handling is predictable and agile. Together, it makes current Civic ownership rewarding and enjoyable.
