How do you define an icon? Perhaps something that emanates and encapsulates a whole generation’s thoughts and aspirations. Something that represents something. Something that stands out.

Can an icon be replaced? It will take a while for anyone because icons, like diamond’s an icon, should be forever.

Here comes the 11th Generation Honda Civic, an update to the previous generation which has shown how the Civic name lives to this day. The newest Civic, however, can look underwhelming, as its sleek headlamp and hood, plus its rear, looks quite odd and at the same time conformist to the newer car designs in the market. But don’t let looks deceive you, as looks are an acquired taste. What’s important is what’s under the hood (and inside the car because comfort and safety is life!)

What’s inside is a 1498cc 4-cylinder 16-valve gasoline DOHC VTEC Turbo engine which produces 178 hp of power and 240 Nm of torque. Its transmission runs in a variable speed CVT gearbox. You can also choose between three drive modes – normal, econ, and sport modes.

Despite the power, the car also give you safety and comfort. Inside the cabin, you’ll have automatic climate control, a one-push start system, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment with steering wheel controls and electronic power steering, a customizable instrument cluster, a touchscreen audio system -- 7 inches for the S and V variant, but 9 inches for the RS, which also includes a Bose 12-speaker sound system, power windows and door pockets for everyone, and 12-V sockets for charging on the go.

Safety features include Dual SRS Airbags for both the driver and front passenger and side airbags, seatbelt reminder alarm, a G-CON or G-force control system, ABS, EBD, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, Emergency Stop Signal, Child Safety Lock, ISOFIX tethers, a security alarm and reverse camera, speed sensing door-locks and more. The all-new Civic actually boasts the Honda Sensing Technology, making the Civic technically a smart car. (All this on another article)

The Civic has three variants, the S, the V, and the RS models, priced between PhP 1.29 million to PhP 1.69 million. Perhaps in the future a Type R variant would come out in the market.  

The RS Version of course offers more than the other variants including not only the bigger instrument panel and touch screen audio display, but also bigger rims, auto rain sensing, leather and suede seats, leather steering wheel and knob, a trunk spoiler, an auto-dimming rear mirror, ambient lighting, to name a few. But when it comes to performance, the three variants share the same engine and same ride quality that Honda always offers.

Can an icon be replaced? Not necessarily, but it can be updated. Truly the 11th generation Civic can be up there in due time.