New Honda Civic delayed in Europe

Parts shortages resulting from the ongoing flood crisis in Thailand have forced Honda to defer the launch of its ninth-generation Civic hatch in Europe.

Revealed at September's Frankfurt motor show the new Honda Civic was slated for showroom release in January. This has now been postponed until the end of February.

"We are closely watching the supply chain situation. Right now we fear the new Civic introduction will be delayed by three to four weeks," Honda's European manager John Kingston told press.

European spec Civics are built at Honda's Swindon plant in southern England, but production relies heavily on parts sourced from Thailand. It is the manufacture and supply of these parts that is now said to be severely impacting production.

The flood situation in Thailand has already seen Honda postpone vehicle, MPE and motorcycle production recently with its plants there closed early last month. 

It is hoped the delay will not severely hamper Honda's European sales for Civic, which the company predicts will reach in excess of 100,000 units annually.

Locally, Honda Australia told motoring.com.au the current situation affecting Civic is unlikely to affect its plans.

"It is in our plan to take the new Civic hatch here in Australia," said Honda Australia's public relations manager, Melissa Cross. "[But] as this car is designed specifically for the European market, the priority is to satisfy these markets first. We have not finalised timing for our local launch and as such, this delay will have no effect."

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