The latest generation Honda Civic has been revealed, continuing a model line that stretches back 50 years.
The previous generations have proved an important sales model for the Japanese firm, and the new model, badged Civic e:HEV, now comes with a new hybrid engine and tech-heavy interior.
Under the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle engine, with two electric motor and a lithium-ion battery there to provide support. The combination makes 181bhp and 315Nm of torque, with the twin motors working together to provide the primary propulsion to the wheels.
The result is that the Civic hybrid promises similar punchy performance to a pure electric vehicle.
Although efficiency figures have not been confirmed, Honda says it is targeting CO2 emissions of 110g/km and around 50mpg. This new hybrid powertrain does impact boot space, though, which is down from 478 litres in the old car to just over 400 litres now.
On the plus side, though, there’s a massively overhauled cabin, with a new nine-inch infotainment display propped on the dashboard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been included along with the promise of easier to navigate menus.
A new air vent with a honeycomb pattern now runs the full width of the dash, while high-spec cars also get a 10.2-inch driver’s display.
It’s all change on the outside, too, with a slightly lower bonnet and more glass, which helps extra light inside. A lower body line gives rear passengers a better view out, while the wing mirrors have been repositioned to improve visibility.
When it comes to safety, the new Civic gets Honda’s Sensing range of advanced assistance features, including a new 100-degree wide-view camera up front, which helps to spot pedestrians, lines in the road and other vehicles.
The new Civic will go on sale in the UK in the autumn, with full pricing and specification confirmed closer to this date.
