Black Pack for new Honda Civic

To celebrate the launch of its new-generation Civic this week, Honda Australia has announced the option of a 'Black Pack' cosmetic kit for its crucial new small sedan.

Available across the five-variant, all-auto Civic sedan range, the genuine accessory package includes black 17-inch alloy wheels (four), a black sports grille, black front spoiler, black side skirts, black door mirror covers and black bootlid spoiler.

The cost is $2998 on the Civic VTi, VTi-S, VTi-L and VTi-LX, and $2298 for the RS sports flagship, which goes without the black grille and rear wing.

Honda Australia director Stephen Collins said the Black Pack – which was previously available to Jazz buyers -- was just one of many genuine accessories available for the new Civic sedan, which goes on sale on June 1 and will be followed by the new Civic hatch in early 2017, followed by the all-new Type-R hot hatch.

Before then, Honda Australia will release its new supercar flagship, the second-generation NSX hybrid coupe, by the end of this year.

"Many Honda customers really enjoy being able to individualise their cars,” said Collins. “The all-new Civic is already a stunning looking car but adding the eye-catching Black Pack edition really does set the car apart.”

Honda Australia says it has received an unprecedented number of pre-orders for the new Civic, with almost 200 customers signing up and 300 expected by the time the car hits dealerships next month.

“The last time we had such strong interest from prospective customers was when we were launching the HR-V and it has now become one of the strongest competitors in the small SUV segment,” said Collins.

“We know the Civic has really struck a chord with existing owners and prospective customers looking for premium quality in a contemporary package. Once they drive the Civic and experience the ride and handling, impressive interior and superior connectivity, we’re confident it will go straight to the top of shopping lists.

“With the arrival of the Civic, it’s becoming clearer by the day that Honda has got its mojo back.”

The Thai-built 2016 Civic sedan is priced from $22,390 plus on-road costs for the entry-level VTi CVT and extends to $33,590 plus ORCs for the top-shelf VTi-LX CVT, with the sporty RS priced in between at $31,790 plus ORCs.

Most orders have been for the latter two variants, both of which are powered by a new 127kW/220Nm 1.5-litre DOHC direct-injection turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine. Other Civics will come with a carryover 104kW/174Nm 1.8-litre atmo four.