2022 Honda Civic RS Review

Ah, the Honda Civic RS, a mixed bag of emotions, much like a rollercoaster ride through the world of reliable Japanese wonders. For over half a century, this car has been the stalwart of the JDM community, a living legend that just won’t quit. And now, we’ve got the 11th generation Civic RS, ready to prove itself in the shadow of the almighty Type R.

They call it “Road Sailing,” and they’ve given it a makeover to match. The wheelbase stretched, the rear track widened, and the height lowered – it’s like they put this Civic on a fitness regimen. The result? Heads turning left and right as you cruise by in one of its six snazzy colors, including the intriguingly named “Coffee Cherry Red” and the space-age “Meteoroid Grey.”

The unit you see here that we had on test is Brilliant Sporty Blue.

But it’s not just about looks. The Civic RS feels like it’s itching to hit the track. With three drive modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – it’s ready to adapt to your mood. And let me tell you, it’s got that responsive edge no matter which mode you choose. You’ll feel like a maestro conducting the symphony of asphalt, whether you’re navigating the urban jungle or ruling the open highways.

Step inside, and you’re in for a treat. Honda’s ditched that fingerprint-magnet piano black for a cleaner finish. The sporty vibes continue with red stitching, honeycomb dash patterns, and switches that make you feel like a pilot. The seats are a marvel – leather with contrast suede inserts, they cradle you like a well-tailored suit. And the tech? A 9-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a booming Bose 12-speaker system, and even a sunroof to let in the sunshine.

Now, what’s under the bonnet? A feisty 1.5-liter 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with CVT transmission, dishing out 131kW and 240Nm of torque. This car’s no slouch; it’s got a punchy response when you need to overtake on the highway. Fuel consumption? They say it’s 6.2L/100KM, but let’s be real – we didn’t quite manage that.

Here’s where the emotional rollercoaster gets tricky. That CVT transmission, designed for seamless changes and fuel efficiency, leaves you feeling a bit… stuck. It hesitates between 2nd and 3rd gear like it’s contemplating life’s mysteries. Thankfully, there are those flappy paddles for manual gear shifts, but even they suffer from the occasional lag.

In the end, it’s a tale of mixed feelings. The Civic RS is a stunning sedan that’s as enjoyable to drive as it is to look at. It’s comfortable, but there’s room for improvement, especially with the transmission. Yet, for enthusiasts, it’s that perfect middle child, bridging the gap between the standard Civic and the Type R.

So, what’s the price of admission? R699,900, complete with a 5-year/200,000 KM warranty and a 5-year/90,000 KM service plan. And let’s not forget, Hondas are renowned for their reliability. This Civic RS seems poised to carry that torch with style.

Words by Sammy | Images by Deuce Digital