Nothing except its look. It has more room space (althogh if in MM), all the engine issues in 8th gen has been resolved, nice economy (eco mode) as compare to 8th gen., a little more road clearance, dass board is excelent in its class..
Just one thing is irretating its exterior..........in 1998 when I bought my first brand new car6th gen civic (EXI) I was proud against my fellows having XE/GLI 1.6/ etc..........and in 2006 when I boght 7th gen (Vti Orial PT) belive me I used to laugh at corolla people.....and once again, in 2010 when i get 8th gen (Vti Orial PT), I feel proud among friends having Altis etc....because of its look its technology, its interior as well as exterior.....
No haveing look at this 9th gen, nothing apeals if we looks it externally.But when we sit in it/drive it/ and i say feel it...its excelent not compareable to any local car...
I feel the difference is only that we have now muore choice (Premio/Mark X etc). And in past we have nothing to compare just Corolla and Civic......And Civic is way ahead in every aspect.....
So no slid reason exists not to purchase civic (for me personally). Just waiting a face lift....which might take a year or two.