SINGAPORE — We’ve already tested the mainstream version of the new Honda Civic, the 1.6. But this is the one that has been grabbing headlines: The 1.5 Turbo version with a 173bhp engine. It has gotten so much attention because of the conflation of two once-opposed technologies into one car.

In the past, Honda was all about non-turbocharged (naturally-aspirated) engines. VTEC, or Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control, helped make its engines more powerful, efficient and dramatic. Turbos meanwhile, were beloved by the Japanese tuning car scene, usually with pizza-sized turbochargers and whale-like blow-off valves.

Since Civics have always been treasured as the basis for “boy racer” machines (as unimpressed onlookers label them) too, combining these two technologies into one might sound like a dream come true for those with the urge to be fast and furious.

SMOOTH OPERATOR

But most mainstream cars are all about eco-friendliness — earth dreams instead of engine screams if you will — which is why it is not really surprising that the new turbo Civic drives like a car that is not turbocharged.

The exterior does not suggest that, with its bold, coupe-esque lines, low and wide stance and aggro-looking spoiler. Yet, the interior is all about spaciousness and high-tech user-friendliness. There is no drama upon start up, and instead of the signature bassy burble of most turbos, there is a mere whisper. Like the Jade multi-purpose vehicle, which was Honda’s first turbo car here, it seems the entire experience has been engineered to be smooth and totally unlike typical European hatches such as the BMW 1 Series or Volkswagen Golf.

The power comes in a smooth surge, rather than an obvious shove, and while the Civic’s refined nature masks its pace, the major clue that 173bhp is on board is its reluctance to run out of steam — an issue with classic Japanese non-turbocharged engines — even with five adults on board.

CIVIL SUIT

If it all sounds a bit understated, well, it is because there’s little doubt Honda intended it to be this way.

But let’s not mistake a peaceful ebullience for lack of pace, as the Civic turbo is truly quick in real life. Backing that up is another classic Civic trait of superb handling. It rides like it looks (sporty and stiff), which mars the effortlessness a little, but like its predecessors, precise steering and a communicative front end mean avid drivers will not be bored if they can find enough corners to carve.

Its sporting DNA is flanked by a lot of everyday usefulness: Massive legroom, a spacious boot, LED lights that make night-driving easier and a LaneWatch camera mounted below the passenger-side mirror to help when you filter or turn left.

Like the 1.6-litre model, the Civic Turbo is an accomplished car. Its 173hp is very nice to have, yet does not make the meat of the experience. This is good news for the next planned model of the Civic with a 1.0-litre turbocharged inline 3 engine.

While big power might grab headlines, it is not surprising that the new range-topping Civic has more friendly qualities than uncivil ones. That’s just as well, seeing as nine previous generations of Civics have banked on being reliable yet desirable machines with lots of civic-mindedness.

HONDA CIVIC 1.5 TURBO

Engine: 1,498cc, in-line four, turbocharged, 173hp, 220Nm

Performance: 200kmh, 0-100kmh: 8.6s, 5.9L/100km, 135g/km CO2

Price: S$129,999

On Sale: Now

PROS: Plentiful and smooth power, look good, lots of space and features

CONS: Stiff ride, not exactly dramatic