Honda has long had an image that suggests its core customers are elderly couples who drive around slowly with rugs on their knees, or mildly psychotic minicab drivers. The impression is of a manufacturer that churns out reliable but slightly dull cars with little or no passion. But Honda hopes to turn that image on its head with its bold, Dan Dare Civic.
The current Civic marries sharp, coupe-like lines with the practicality of a five-door hatchback - and comes with a cast-iron guarantee that there is nothing like it in the class. Fans of buying British will also be cheered on by the fact that the Civic is built in Swindon - the one thing that won't help its predecessor's dull image.
The dynamic, perhaps challenging, styling continues inside, with a quirky dash that looks like a Bullet train's control panel crossed with something from the USS Enterprise. At night it glows all sorts of funky colours and in the daytime it's just there, a looming presence at the front of the car. Ergonomics might have come second to stylistics, but it's an exciting wheel to be sat behind.
Refinement isn't the Civic's strong suit, but it is a relaxed, hushed and comfortable place to cruise at speed. The steering is responsive and light and the suspension is good at smoothing out all but the worst of bumps on the road. We found the car slightly uncomfortable over a longer journey, though. There is plenty of room front and back, so four adults could journey quite happily together.
The engine range is a mixed bag - the entry-level petrol engine is so slow it will likely appeal to those who bought the previous generation Civic. The 2.2-litre i-CTDi diesel engine is curiously off-colour here, proving somewhat agricultural and noisy. The 1.8-litre i-VTEC petrol is the most appealing engine, revvy and willing.
Of course, the best model in the range is the Type R, with its direct handling and hyperactive engine. That noise and the tough suspension will soon wear you down if you're thin-skinned though - it's a thrilling but intense ride.
If nothing else Honda does deserve praise for its boldness - the Civic is like nothing else on the road, and its distinctive style will appeal to many. The Civic looks set to successfully shrug off Honda's dowdy, dull image and be seen as something of an innovator. And about time too.