American Honda unveils all-new Civic concepts
The US-spec Honda Civic Si Concept coupe and Civic Concept saloon made their world debuts at the North American International Auto Show today, providing the first official glimpse at the styling direction of the all-new model set to go on sale in the US this spring.
The Civic Si coupe and saloon Concepts are US-only design and will not be sold in the UK. The Civic for the European market will continue to be built in the UK and is not mechanically related to either of the US models, and their introduction does not influence future sales of the European hatchback.
The all-new US Civic range includes a saloon and a coupe with conventional petrol models, two sporty 'Si' performance versions, along with one hybrid and a natural gas alternative-fuel variant. Collectively, the all-new Civic engine range offers a balance between fuel economy, low emissions and performance.
''The Civic is known for providing a balance of ‘just-right’ packaging, fun-to-drive character and outstanding fuel economy, at a price that even first-time buyers can afford,'' said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. ''The redesigned Civic builds on this legacy and promises to be the best Civic yet.''
Powertrain Technology
The US Civic’s engine range with 'intelligent' Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) technology becomes more fuel efficient in 2012. The upcoming American Civic Hybrid offers the latest generation of the compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) petrol-electric hybrid system and features the first application of a lithium-ion battery in a Honda hybrid.
Building on its emphasis on fuel-economy, the majority of US Civic models will receive Honda Eco Assist technology, already available in the CR-Z, Jazz and Insight hybrids. The all-new Civic is the first American Honda model to use Eco Assist technology in a petrol-only powered vehicle. Additionally, Honda is expanding American retail sales of the natural gas-powered Civic GX model, which is the only OEM-built, dedicated CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) passenger car assembled in America.
Accolades and Manufacturing
As a top-selling model for American Honda, the current Civic has sold more than 1.5 million units since the 2006 model went on sale in late 2005. The 2006 Civic earned both the prestigious Motor Trend “Car of the Year” and the North American Car of the Year awards.
The current-generation US Civic continues to be a significant entry-point to the Honda brand for younger buyers, introducing on average more than 90,000 new-car customers under the age of 35 to the brand every year. More than 95 per cent of all Civics sold in the US as of calendar-year 2010 were made in North America at manufacturing facilities in either Greensburg, Indiana or Alliston, Ontario in Canada.
