The power difference isn't groundbreaking IMO. In the end, these cars aren't made for speeding anyhow. And we don't really want to spend that extra 16k for the extra features even though the 2.0s is definitely a much better featured car.
Cosmetically, having projector headlights is important to me, and the 1.8s has it. All I need to do is just slap on a Phillips HID kit and I'm set. Signal lamps on wing mirrors I can live without.
Interior wise - Leather seats can be done outside so that's covered as well. If DVD-navi is important to you, just buy an aftermarket one. Paddle shifters, nice to have but I don't even bother using it in my Passat, so have it or not in the Civic doesn't really bother me.
If safety is important to you, then this car is not such a good choice. But if your daily commute only involves going from home to KL or to the surrounding shopping malls then this car is sufficient. If it's going to be your main family car, then I think paying that extra for 2.0s is a better deal. If this is a 2nd car for you like it is for me, then it surely is good enough.
If you want to compare it against the Forte, then surely the Korean will offer much better value for money. You don't need to worry about its resale value as it will be nearly on par with the Japanese if not as good IMO.
My personal test drive between the 1.8s Civic and the Forte -
Forte engine is quite harsh sounding
Forte transmission is fairly smooth
Forte sound insulation isn't as good
Forte features is really nice for the price. First thing I notice is the nice touch screen player navi in the center console
Forte body roll is more noticeable than the Civic
Civic engine is much more refined. It's not harsh sounding at higher revs
Civic interior quality is meh, but acceptable
Civic sound insulation is decent, noticeably better than the Forte but still leaves much to be desired.
Civic feels more planted than the Forte but body roll is still obvious.
Civic steering response is a bit on the light side
You can solve the sound insulation and body roll problem easily with money for the forte and it will still cost much lesser than the 1.8s Civic, but you can't fix the engine harshness, it's the characteristic of the car. The best you can do is try to improve the firewall so you can hear less of that harshness.
Thanks, zweimmk. For me, the interior is also important and I am trying to come to terms with the beige (or is it grey?) lower level of the dashboard and next to the gear
. No way to change that right?
Anyway, I know you have already bought the 1.8S for your wife but what are your thoughts about waiting for the facelifted 1.8? Did you wrestle with whether or not you should wait a bit longer for that? I heard that Honda has already planned production soon.
Again, worried to make the wrong choice especially if facelifted 1.8 is the same price. Your thoughts?
Any other feedback from other 1.8 buyers/owners is welcomed. Thanks!
Aug 29 2012, 03:27 PM
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. No way to change that right?
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