The Geneva Motor Show is also the stage for Honda’s next-generation Civic hatchback prototype. Its design heralds a significant step-change from previous versions of Honda’s core European model, focusing on provocative design and rewarding driving dynamics.
So here’s the gist: the all-new Civic hatchback will be 30mm wider, 20mm lower and 130mm longer than the current generation. New larger and wider wheels and tyres give a feeling of an assured stance, while the long wheelbase, short overhangs and sleek cabin area further add to a dynamic feel of the exterior.
At the front of the car, the headlights are LED and is complemented by DRLs.
The sleek and swept-back body lines continue along the side of the car with a swage line that incorporates front and rear door handles before culminating in the distinctive C-shaped LED rear lights. A second, lower character line extends from behind the front wheels up through the doors and meets the rear wheel arches, emphasising the car’s dynamic forward-leaning stance.
The all-new Civic Hatchback will feature a range of three powertrain options: 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre VTEC TURBO petrol engines, and a revised 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel unit. Civic will be the first European model to feature the two all-new petrol engines.
Based on a completely new engine structure and harnessing newly developed turbo systems, the petrol engines feature variable valve motion technology to reduce friction and achieve class-leading output and environmental performance.
A turbocharger with a low moment of inertia and high responsiveness, together with direct injection technology seek to achieve an optimum balance between high output and torque, above those of conventional naturally-aspirated engines.
The common rail turbo-diesel unit incorporates extensive technologies that reduce friction, improve emissions and increase fuel economy. The engine features a small, high-efficiency turbocharger, low-pressure EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system and a high-intake flow, high-swirl cylinder head port. A new high-strength, lightweight slender crankshaft and all-aluminium, open-deck, high-pressure, die-cast engine block makes the unit lightweight while ensuring high levels of durability.
Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) production facility will become the global source for the 10th gen Civic hatchback following a €270m investment.
