Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
THE compact sedan is back with a whole new level of excitement, as Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) finally unveiled the much-anticipated all-new Civic. With a completely redesigned exterior, interior and a new powertrain, the resurgence of this popular sedan will definitely capture the hearts of Honda enthusiasts.
“We gather, once again, to witness the unveiling of another Honda icon, which started it all for HCPI. In 1991 HCPI first introduced the model that marked Honda’s brand in the Philippine automotive industry—the Civic. The Civic’s heritage goes way back to 1972, pioneering key technologies and innovations that we see in vehicles on the road today,” said Toshio Kuwahara, president and general manager of HCPI. Recognizing the legacy and success of the Civic, HCPI presented the latest models alongside immaculately restored units of the fourth-generation Grand Civic and the high-performance sixth-generation SiR, which was a game changer for Honda in the industry.
Inspired by the “Revolutionary Silhouette Advanced Neo Sedan” design concept, the styling features sleek character lines and a sharp aerodynamic profile, which complement the low and wide stance that conveys a coupe-like attitude. The aggressive fascia showcases the modern Honda design signature present in other current models. Both the slender LED headlamps with daytime running lights (DRLs) go well with the bold front grille, which bears the logo in the middle. At the rear, the exquisite C-shaped taillights not only highlight the brand’s unique identity. The top-of-the-line RS Turbo sports a glossy black front grille, wing-type trunk spoiler, chrome door handles, LED fog lamps and a two-toned 17″ alloy wheels with 215/50 series tires.
Inside, the dashboard features a fresh layout that is both ergonomic and engaging. It is fitted with intuitive controls and high-tech convenience features, including a console. With the electrostatic steering-wheel controls, drivers can simply switch between audio and smartphone options. Additionally, cruise control, smart entry with push start button, ECON function and remote engine start are all standard, while the paddle shifters, leather seats and shift knob are solely for the top-spec RS Turbo.
Available with the two versions are the full-color TFT instrument cluster that has access to both vehicle and audio information. It also includes the new advanced 7-inch display infotainment with connectivity functions, climate control and navigation system, which is exclusive to the RS Turbo version.
There are two available powertrain options for the all-new Civic. Propelling the top-variant RS is the new 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with VTEC engine generating 171 hp at 5,500 rpm with 220 N-m of maximum torque. On the other hand, the E version is powered by the same 1.8-liter SOHC VTEC motor, which produces 139 hp at 6,500 rpm and 174 N-m of maximum torque at 4,300 rpm. Both powertrains are mated to an automatic CVT (continuous variable transmission) developed with Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology.
In terms of safety, the All-New Civic provides a class-leading performance. The New Ace Body Design, as well as low and wide platform, not only contribute to the premium, sporty styling, but also help realize better torsional rigidity and above-class crashworthiness. Other standard features are driver and passenger air bags, antilock-braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD), auto brake hold (ABH), vehicle-stability assist (VSA), hill start assist (HSA), emergency stop signal (ESS), ISOFIX child seat anchor and reverse camera with multiview, among others. The lateral- and side-curtain airbags are also exclusive to the top-edition RS Turbo. Also new to the 10th-generation Civic is the electric parking brake (EPB), which replaces the conventional mechanical lever, operates along with ABH to provide more convenience.
Since its first global debut in North America, the all-new Civic has already earned global recognition from having received a total of 14 awards from leading institutions. Some of which include the 2016 North American Car of the Year, and 2016 Canadian Car of the Year awards. The all-new Civic is available in such colors as Cosmic Blue Metallic, Midnight Burgundy Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, White Orchid Pearl (Special Color), Rallye Red (RS Turbo only) and Modern Steel Metallic (1.8 E only).
Prices are P1.088 million for 1.8 E and P1.398 million for the RS Turbo.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino