Honda Civic: style for Oz
Honda's funky new Euro Civic hatch is a non-starter for Oz -- as reported in last month's issue of Wheels -- but here's the best indication yet of how our version will look.A company insider confirmed that the US-spec hybrid sedan shown here closely resembles the Thai-built car scheduled to land here in the first half of 2006. We'll get only a sedan initially, with a three-door hatch tipped to follow further down the track.
Clearly evident from the photos is the fact that the Civic sedan has grown in all directions -- it's 36mm longer and 38mm wider than the outgoing model, while the wheelbase has stretched by a massive 81mm.
The styling is an improvement, albeit not quite as appealing as the sleek five-door version destined for the European market. Its key distinguishing features are an aggressive, rakish nose, complemented by cab-forward proportions and a large glasshouse.
The standard engine offered here will be an all-new 1.8-litre i-VTEC unit that pumps out 105kW and 173Nm -- marginally up on the segment-topping (in sales terms) Corolla's figures of 100kW/171Nm. Transmission choices will comprise a manual and auto -- both five-speeders.
A hybrid variant -- with a 1.3-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder and electric motor -- will also eventually be part of the line-up. Its outputs are rated at 82kW and 167Nm, relayed to the front wheels by a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Standard safety equipment is likely to include dual front and side airbags, curtain 'bags and ABS. Expect entry pricing in the low-$20,000s.
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