Every single Honda is a top used car. I know this after spending some quality time in the cab of a recovery lorry recently. “Hondas?” says the driver “Nah, we never pick those up, ever.”
To be honest that’s all you need to know, really, that they won’t break down especially if you are driving to work, your mum’s house or the shops.
However, you might also want a car that is interesting to look at, own and drive, and in recent years that has been a problem.
So here you have it – my pick of some sensible Hondas and some seriously sporty sexy Hondas. The choice, as ever, is yours.
Honda Integra R
The Integra Type R was an uncompromised road-legal racer and totally unsuited to a quiet Sunday afternoon drive.
It offered shattering performance, pin sharp handling and lots of lovely race car details. Only hardcore enthusiasts need apply. However, Honda core values were completely intact so even though this is a Honda with a very raw edge, it is not a temperamental highly-strung special.
Many families need look no further than the Civic. Space is always a priority and the Civic manages to provide a lot of it in a very compact package.Simply repositioning the gearlever on the dashboard creates a big floor area and the high roof adds to that wonderful feeling of spaciousness. Five can sit comfortably yet there is still room for luggage in what is a sizeable boot.
It is worth remembering that there are also sportier three-door models, especially the 2.0-litre Type R which is a very characterful performance hatch.
Honda S2000
At the heart of the S2000 is a wonderful engine which may be small in size but creates a huge amount of power. It links together brilliantly with a six-speed gearbox which is delightful to use and very precise.
Accelerate cleanly and easily to feel the power build up and propel the S2000 along at up to 150mph. The sophisticated suspension system means that the car has lots grip and tackles bends with complete ease; it always feels perfectly balanced.
This is essentially a versatile and practical family car, which is at home on the road and competent enough to cope with low demand situations off it.
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