This Autumn Honda will be launching a hybrid version of their best-selling hatchback, the Civic. Named the Civic e:HEV it will be a self-charging hybrid that gives drivers great fuel efficiency but retains the sense of fun and performance the Civic is known for.
Honda had in place plans to have electric versions of all their mainstream European models by the end of 2022 and with the release of the Civic e:HEV they will achieve this. The electrification of Honda’s fleet comes at a number of European countries introducing bans on the sale of petrol and diesel engines, including the UK, or lowering acceptable emission levels that new cars need to meet.
We’re excited to see how Honda has managed to keep the performance power and fun of driving a Civic but with lower CO2 emissions, integrated electric technology and revamped design!
Civic Hybrid Technology
The Civic e:HEV will be one of only a few self-charging electric vehicles (EVs) which offer drivers a purely electric range rather than simply using the electric motor to support the internal combustion engine at key moments. In purely electric it will be as quiet as a standard electric vehicle.
When the vehicle is using both the electric motor and the internal combustion Honda have advised that it will use the electric motor to provide additional power to optimise driving performance and provide better fuel economy. Energy usually lost while braking will be recaptured and used to recharge the battery to provide additional electric power. Additionally, when traveling consistency at higher speeds engine power will be used to recharge the electric battery.
The new model will have a 2-litre petrol engine and two electric motors that provide 181 brake horsepower and 232 lb ft of torque while producing less than 110 g/km of CO2 emissions.
Honda have also said they’ve managed to improve torsional rigidity by 19% compared to the current model which means an enhanced ride quality, better handling and refined performance. While new ball joints and bearings at the front improve the steering and a wider rear track improves stability. All of which improve the driving experience for you.
Exterior Design
The new Civic has a sleeker design than previous models whilst still maintaining the sporty styling they’re known for. The sloping fastback-style rear, 18 inch alloys and elongated wheelbase gives it a fresh look.
We’re not expecting to see an estate version of the Civic as there isn’t an estate version of the current model so the longer wheelbase gives the hatchback a little more space on the interior and larger road presence with its wider rear track.
Interior
The 11th Generation of the Civic has a minimalistic and driver-centred design, similar to the interior we’ve seen on the recently updated Jazz which went on to win the What Car? 2022 Best Small Hybrid award.
As you can see from the above photo there’s a honeycomb style trim panel with integrated air vents across the length of the dashboard, rather than the separate air vents most vehicles have. In the centre of the vehicle you have climate controls, USB ports and a freestanding 9 inch infotainment touchscreen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for integrated smartphone connection.
On higher spec models there is also wireless charging and a premium audio system that has twelve high-fidelity Bose speakers.
The wheelbase will be 35mm longer than the previous model, which doesn’t make a massive difference when you’re looking at the car but does help give rear passengers a little more leg room. Additionally, the design of the rear hatch takes into account rear passenger head room to ensure they don’t feel cramped.
Cost of the New Civic e:HEV
Honda haven’t currently announced the cost of the new Civic but we expect that to come in the next couple of months.
We’ll keep you updated as we get more information on how much the new Civic will cost, when we are able to order them for you to lease and any other news on it.
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