WE'RE a greedy lot, we motorists. Yes, a car has to practical, it also must be reasonably good looking - who wants to park an ugly duckling in their driveway? And it can't be too expensive to fuel and run.

Also most of us - particularly those who read car reviews - would like it to be a decent drive with sharp handling and strong performance.

Not so many models deliver on all counts, especially when we are working to a budget.

But one that comes to mind is the current Honda Civic, now in its eleventh incarnation after half a century of models bearing the same name.

Over the years, it has grown bigger, quicker and more frugal as technical advances have been harnessed.

The three versions available - barring the fire-eating Type-R - are each powered by a similar 2.0-litre direct injection petrol engine linked to twin electric motors. This results in a lusty 181bhp output giving it lively acceleration - 0 to 62mph in just eight seconds. Only the level of trim and equipment separate the three versions.

Despite being slightly longer and wider than the last model, the e:HEV is 20 per cent lighter, benefiting both economy and performance.

Honda has long been faithful to continuous variable transmission when providing an automatic. And the latest Civic is solely available with this type of gearbox.

Unlike many examples of CVT, Honda has managed to avoid the drawback of ‘engine drone' which so often blights this efficient type of gearbox.

Steering wheel paddles allow the transmission to have steps which calm the mechanical noise and make progress both smoother and quieter.

While the this Civic version doesn't attempt to be a hot hatch, it offers a rewarding driving experience - the harder it's pushed the better it responds. Cornering is sure-footed and grippy and the steering has plenty of road-feel and good accuracy.

Roll angles remain slight with good vertical suspension movement over poor surfaces but no sign of wallowing or vagueness. An all round excellent compromise.

Thanks to hybridisation, it delivers immediate punch the moment the accelerator is prodded.

Economy is a clear strength too. Even pushed hard, we obtained close to 50mpg with a best of 54mpg over a gentle country run. Emissions are also good too at 113g/km.

On a practical front, there's ample space for four in the smart cabin with decent leg and headroom - despite a low rear roofline. The hatchback rear door opens to reveal a wide, flat space capable of absorbing around 400litres of luggage, more than most rivals.

The cabin itself is both smart and well made with high grade plastics in various dark shades. The entry level Elegance and the Sport share the same 9.0-inch touchscreen which works well, though is less intuitive than some rivals. The flagship Advance we drove gets a larger screen.

The driving position is set quite low to maximise the headroom and there's sufficient seat/steering wheel adjustment for most tastes and shapes.