The Honda Civic has always been a more interesting choice for buyers in the Focus-sized family hatchback segment.

This completely new version is the tenth generation model and has forty years of heritage to build upon. There’s a more spacious, dynamic-looking body, stronger standards of safety and media connectivity and, perhaps most importantly, two completely fresh petrol engines. It all sounds quite promising.

There’s a sleek and swept-back shape this time around, with larger, wider wheels emphasising a lower-set, sportier stance. And the sharp lines are complemented by the most comprehensive aerodynamic packing in the segment, including complete under-body panelling. More importantly, this MK10 model Civic is bigger than before, in hatchback form 30mm wider and 130mm longer than its predecessor. All of this sits on a more advanced unibody platform that Honda says is 16kg lighter and 52% stiffer than before.

Inside, the previously rather confusing cabin has been completely redesigned with higher quality materials and a simpler, more sophisticated design theme that includes a new digital instrument binnacle.

Engine-wise, there are new 1.0 and 1.5-litre VTEC TURBO petrol units with 129 and 182PS, these selling alongside the 120PS 1.6 i-DTEC diesel unit carried over from the previous model. Handling is improved by an all-new suspension set-up, a lower centre of gravity and a boost in body rigidity. Ride comfort has been enhanced too.

‘Kaizen’, the Japanese approach to ‘continuous improvement’, characterises every aspect of this tenth generation Civic. The sharpened handling is welcome and the extra space useful. More important though, is the news that Honda has finally got its house in order when it comes to petrol power, the 1.0 and 1.5-lite VTEC TURBO units looking good enough to go up against the class best.

A lot of boxes have been ticked then, yet it’s clear that Honda has also worked hard to maintain this car’s more characterful approach in this segment. Add in British build quality, a great driving position and strong standards of safety and media connectivity and you’ve got a potentially very appealing package. Dynamic functionality was Honda’s goal in creating this car. They may well have achieved it.

CAR: Honda Civic
PRICES: £18,475 - £32,995 – on the road
INSURANCE GROUPS: 12E-33E
CO2 EMISSIONS: 94 - 170g/km
PERFORMANCE: [1.6 i-DTEC] 0-62mph 10.5s / top speed 121mph
FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.6 i-DTEC] (combined) 72.4mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ESP stability control, traction control, ABS with EBA & EBD, twin front, side, and curtain airbags
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: [Hatch] Length/Width/Height mm 4590/1770/1480mm