The Civic range lacks a plug-in hybrid model, which means it can’t compete with rivals when it comes to rock-bottom running costs. That said, the two petrol engines offer low emissions and decent fuel economy, so neither should break the bank over three years or 36,000 miles.

The entry-level 1.0-litre turbo with a six-speed manual gearbox will do 47.9mpg and emit 110g/km of CO2, while the CVT auto is slightly less frugal – returning 44.8mpg, but lower emissions at 107g/km. Watch out, though, as the larger wheels on SR models and above adversely affect the official fuel economy and emissions figures.

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Opt for the 1.5 VTEC with a six-speed manual transmission and you should see an average of around 46mpg with CO2 emissions of 128g/km. Opting for the CVT transmission sees economy fall to 42.8mpg with 137g/km of CO2.

Insurance groups

The outgoing Honda Civic had insurance groups as low as Group 5, but due to all the added kit and new engines, the current car starts at group 15 for the entry-level 1.0 SE. Luckily, upgrading to the better-equipped SR makes no difference to the Civic’s rating – in fact, even top-spec EX models fall into the same category.

Stepping from the three-cylinder to the more powerful 1.5 pushes the hatch into group 22. As with the 1.0-litre, all cars fitted with the bigger engine fall into the same insurance bracket.

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Depreciation

Residual values are reasonable for the Honda Civic, with an entry-level 1.0-litre SE expected to retain 44% of its value after three years or 36,000 miles. The more desirable Sport holds onto around 45%, while the EX cars are a little lower at 41%. Regardless of trim, the Civic can’t match the Mk8 Golf for residuals, as a similarly specced Golf will retain around 48% of its value over the three year ownership period.