Whether traveling forward or backward, it's still a Civic.
While the Honda Civic, may be one of the few 'palindromic vehicles' (spelled the same forwards or backwards) available in dealerships today, one thing is for sure, the long-running compact is set to debut its eighth-generation effort in the 2006 model year.
During the 2006 model year Civic will offer four completely redesigned models, including a gas-electric hybrid version. When it debuted back in 1973, only a five-door wagon was available. In addition to a hybrid sedan in 2006, Civic offers a sedan, coupe and uptuned Si coupe. The hybrid and Si coupe are lower-volume products available in one basic trim while sedans and coupes come in three trim levels: DX, LX and EX. The seventh-generation version debuted in the 2001 model year. The front-wheel-drive Civic does battle against other low-cost, high-mileage vehicles including the ToyotaCorolla, Chevrolet Cobalt, Scion tC, Volkswagen Jetta and Subaru WRX.
Powering sedans and coupes is a four cylinder, 16-valve, 1.8-liter i-vec engine generating 140 horsepower. In 2005, two four cylinder engines were available in coupes and sedans, one generating 115 horsepower (LX and DX models), and one generating 127 horses (EX). When coupled to the standard five-speed manual transmission, fuel economy figures check in at very respectable 30 miles per gallon city ,and 40 m.p.g. highway, one of the best in its class. A four-speed automatic transmission is optional in all trims.
The high-performance Si is powered by a 2.0-liter, double overhead cam four-cylinder engine producing 197 horses (up from 160 horses in 2005) and mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy checks in at 22 m.p.g. city and 31 m.p.g. highway.
The hybrid edition utilizes a fourth-generation Integrated Motor Assist system where a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine works in conjunction with a nickel-metal hydride battery pack and an electric motor. Together they combine for 110 horsepower and generate a Honda estimated mileage of 50 m.p.g. city and 50 m.p.g. highway.
Sizewise, 2006 coupes measure about a half inch shorter than 2005 counterparts while sedans (including the hybrid) gain a little more than an inch in length.
The folks at Honda invited journalists from around the country to Chicago for the eighth-generation's national press launch, which included high-speed testing at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet and legal-speed testing from downtown Chicago to Joliet.
Behind the wheel, the seating position is not as high as the 2005 Toyota Corolla or Ford Focus, but not as low as some small sports cars such as the Nissan 350Z. However, the Civic's front bucket seats are now wider than before and provide enhanced lateral support thanks to firmer upper and lower bolsters.
The two-tier instrument panel also catches one's eye. A digital speedometer, fuel gauge bar and engine temperature bar are housed in the upper level while the more traditional lower level includes a circular, analog-type tachometer with digital odometer and warning lights. Sedans utilize a two-spoke steering wheel while coupes feature a three-spoke design. Both wheels have a smaller diameter than last year (contributing to a sportier look) and have a tilt and telescoping feature. Power window and locks are standard across all trim levels and body styles.
Exterior wise, the Civic coupe design was handled in the United States while sedan styling took place in Japan. Engineers narrowed the gap between the tires and body and lowered the roofline slightly. Coupes incorporate windshield pillars pitched at a steep 21.9 degree angle for a sportier look. The Civic Hybrid mimics the sedan's looks save for 'hybrid' badging and a roof-mounted radio antenna (instead of a back-window-mounted set up.)
Civic's sales goal in the 2006 model year is 300,000 units with a majority (162,000) coming from the sedan. Civic hybrid sales are projected at 28,000 units, 3,000 more than what was sold in 2004. Civic's best sales year was 1998 when 335,000 units were sold.
Production of the Civic hybrid and some sedans take place in Japan. Honda assembles coupes and the Si in Canada while sedans are assembled at three locals: Canada, Japan and East Liberty, Ohio outside of Columbus.
Sedans and conventional coupes go on sale this Thursday starting at $14,360 for a 2006 DX coupe and $14,560 for a DX sedan. A mid-level LX coupe checks in at $16,310 while its sedan counterpart lists at $16,510.
A top-level EX starts at $18,260 for both coupe and sedan body styles. Prices exclude a $550 destination charge.
The hybrid coupe is expected on sale October 5 while the Civic Si is pegged for early December release. Pricing for those vehicles will be announced closer to their debut.
New for Civic in 2006 is an available, in-dash, voice-activated navigation system for the hybrid, Si and EX coupe and sedans. XM Satellite radio is also an option. Anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights, side curtain air bags and side air bags now come standard in all editions. |