The Civic has been motoring around our countryside for more than 40 years, yet as a standard-bearer for Honda something was missing, whether it was in performance, eye appeal or size.
We wanted something better and our patience has been rewarded with a 10th-generation Civic that stands as the best of the breed yet and by a street.
There's so much to like about the new Civic and the 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine is a key reason.
The new hatch is wider and lower than what's gone before: couple that with some refining of the suspension and the job's done. The result is the best ride we've experienced in a Civic.
Sharp exterior lines shift the car to a new level.
It has an athletic profile with razor-edged flanks and a front and back end accentuated by stylish lights.
And the outside is more than matched by a smart interior.
The Civic is a brand that has spanned generations. But for some time the car lost its way and even by default became recognised as a car for the older people.
We're glad Honda has seen the light.
It has delivered a new model which is a quantum leap forward.
Want to know more?
Read our full Honda Civic review.
Driven Car of the Year Awards winners
Driven Car of the Year: Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Driven Compact Car of the Year: Holden Spark
Driven Small Car of the Year: Honda Civic
Driven Medium/Large Car of the Year: Skoda Superb
Driven Green Car of the Year: BMW 330e
Driven Luxury Car of the Year: Mercedes Benz E-Class
Driven Performance Car of the Year: BMW M2
Driven Small SUV of the Year: Kia Sportage
Driven Medium SUV of the Year: Volkswagen Tiguan
Driven Large SUV of the Year: Mazda CX-9
Driven Luxury SUV of the Year: Jaguar F-Pace
Driven Commercial Vehicle of the Year: Holden Colorado
Driven Bike of the Year: Yamaha MT-01