hmmm...well my first car was a brand new company car (a Ford Focus 1.8 Zetec), so I wasnt worried about losing my own money in crash. I was however worried about crashing it and loosing my job, which they made abundantly clear to me! As a result, it wasnt me that wrecked it, but my (older) colleague who after 7 1/2 months of driving heaven borrowed it, and, well it didnt return!!
FYI I did manage to crash one eventually, just took another year or so.
I agree with the driving experience and safety perspective points noted above. New drivers simply dont have the experience of driving dynamics (a reasonably sweeping statement I know) as well as 'reading the road' etc...but then how do you learn it? by getting involved! I also note that you listed safety as a key point in your requirements, so I kinda think you'll be OK, as long as you understand YOUR limits / experience etc...
A lot of people I speak to tend to state that it isnt until people have a 'proper' accident that they become better drivers, as they simply dont appreciate the danger and are totally fear free...
Good luck with your decision whatever it may be...let us know what you choose, even if it isnt a Civic
