Mother Proof's view

There was a time when I may have been intrigued by the Honda Civic Si, but, truthfully, that time has long since come and gone. My present status weighs in heavily: mom of two, wife to one, organizer of all, directress of the house, maid of the bathrooms, gatekeeper to the refrigerator … the list goes on.

I try to be open-minded, but when attempting to install car seats in this two-door, I’m already cursing the vehicle. I find myself in the utmost awkward position, Hunchback of Notre Dame-like, trying to install my toddler’s car seat. There’s only so much crouching I’m willing to do, and this definitely tests my limit. I tell myself that these car seats are not to be removed for any reason during my week’s test drive, because I can’t possibly envision going through this exercise again. Ease of car-seat installation is key, and I’m sorry to say this car does not have it.

My patience-testing didn’t stop there because every time I get my almost-2-year-old in and out of his car seat I cringe, compounded by the fact that he’s going through a trying period of car-seat resistance. As I enter the back of the two-door Honda Civic Si, balancing my squirmy toddler, standing on one foot because the other is caught on the seat belt blocking the entry, I bonk both my head and his. Now that’s enough to really make him want out, and that goes for me as well. But moms prevail, right? So I smiled reassuringly, keeping any unpleasantries at bay, even if just long enough to get his squirmy little bottom into the car seat and at least one flailing arm secured. Next I quickly offer a snack, which allows me just enough time to snuggly fasten the rest of him and get the heck out of that backseat.

Once I’ve buckled in the kiddos, the rear of the Honda Civic Si shows hope due to the functional two-part drink/snack holders located on either side. I am pleased that both children reach their goodies easily, and this autonomy makes for two happy children and one happy mom. When their snacks need replenishing, I can easily hand more to the back.

Next I turn on the satellite radio and immediately notice the depth of sound. Seven standard speakers, including a subwoofer, definitely make the car dance. Upon my brother’s suggestion, I plug in an iPod, turn up the recommended rap tune and definitely feel the beat. My whole body is vibrating, and we are now booming along nicely. I imagine that the younger, kidless crowd – or any volume junkie – would welcome this thump, boom, bump action, and even I have to admit it’s quite a “moving” experience. It’s no wonder a curious hipster approached me regarding the vehicle – he probably spotted the woofer in the back and knew this car could boom. (Or maybe it was me shaking up the neighborhood? Nah, I’ll leave the mirror rattling and car thumping to someone else).

The navigation system with voice recognition in this $22,040 car allows me to find a couple of out-of-the way places quickly. I also enjoy the steering-wheel audio-control buttons, which make for safer driving – always a big plus. Additionally, the huge digital speedometer in the dash keeps my speed in check … it’s the in-your-face mentality. Last but not least, I applaud Honda’s quick reference guide. In just minutes I was well-versed in all-important matters, including the voice-recognition commands.

Although I find the Honda Civic Si cumbersome with kids, it is fun to rev the engine while working the sleek stick shift. Given that this futuristic-looking car is loaded with techie goodies, including the optional navigation system and voice recognition, plus a plethora of speakers, I can see the appeal for a certain crowd.

*For more information on the Honda Civic Si and its safety features, visit www.cars.com.

LET’S TALK NUMBERS

LATCH Connectors: 2

Seating Capacity (includes driver): 5

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT

Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Fair

Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Fair

SENSE AND STYLE

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Not Really

Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove-On): Some