Low friction internals, better aerodynamics and a new Idle Stop (stop/start) system all contribute to the 29g/km drop in CO2 emissions compared to the outgoing car, equating to a combined fuel economy figure of over 67mpg. Power, meanwhile, has increased from 138bhp to 148bhp.

This makes the Civic a tough competitor in the C-segment, where most sub-110g/km cars offer substantially less power – its closest rival is the Vauxhall Astra 2.0-CDTi at 119g/km and 165bhp. It will go on sale in December.

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