All-new Honda Civic: the Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde sedan reborn

THE FLEET of Civic all ready for the drive around Bohol

THE CIVIC emblem holds a truly special place in Honda’s history as a carmaker. When this Japanese company, which was initially a manufacturer of motorcycles, decided to build four-wheeled vehicles in the 1960s instead of just two-wheelers, it was the Civic, which first rolled out of production in the early 1970s, that symbolized this transformation.

Now, the 10th generation Civic has just rolled out of production and onto Philippine shores, and certainly another milestone has been added to the carmaker’s rich history.

More than just a design makeover, the new Civic comes with a new powerplant with the introduction of the 1.5RS Turbo along with the naturally aspirated 1.8E variant.

To familiarize Filipino motoring media with the look and feel of the new Civic variants, Honda Cars Philippines Inc. organized an epic three-day ride-and-drive on the scenic and winding roads of the island province of Bohol, from June 21 to 23.

The 16 motoring media participants were distributed to the six Civic units (two of the 1.8E, and four of the 1.5RS Turbo). Naturally, the more anticipated ride was the 1.5RS Turbo, which felt like a high-powered motorbike when the gas pedal was forced a bit further down.

Surprisingly, the 1.8E variants, though seemingly shy at first, were also “game” for the chase when pushed to the limit.

THE FLEET of Civic all ready for the drive around Bohol

Being an owner of a nearly 20-year-old Civic LXi myself, I have personally seen how far the Civic brand has gone, from a reliable family car to a legend in automotive history books.

The newest version of the Civic has all the makings and workings of the legend living up to lofty expectations.

The parking lot of the Tagbilaran airport certainly hasn’t seen so many Civics before (as HCPI doesn’t have a dealership in Bohol yet), but the profiles of the new Civics were distinct: aggressive and coupe-like with that low-and-wide stance, sleek bodylines, and sharply defined character lines.

AN EPIC three-day ride-and-drive on the scenic and winding roads of the island province of Bohol highlighting the official rollout of the 10th generation Civic.

In no time at all, the group was roaring to the Tarsier sanctuary at the Corella-Canapnapan area.

As surprised Boholanons stared wide-eyed at the convoy of Civics whizzing by, the experience of riding the all-new Civic for the first time was shared with many of the Manila-based motoring media.

This would mark the first time that HCPI would release a turbo-powered sedan in the Philippines.

Whoever thought of bringing back the 1.5-liter engine displacement (to bring back the much-admired fuel economy the brand has always been known for), but boosting the power with the turbo was simply genius.

The Civic 2-liter engine is no more, but what takes its place is the 1.5RS Turbo, more powerful than the ninth generation 2-liter Civic it replaced. The 1.8-liter option from the 9th generation has been carried over to the new one.

AN EPIC three-day ride-and-drive on the scenic and winding roads of the island province of Bohol highlighting the official rollout of the 10th generation Civic.

Apart from the obvious engine and power displacements, there are several features that separate the two Civic variants.

The 1.5RS Turbo features the gloss black front grille, while the 1.8E sports the chrome grille. The 1.5RS comes standard with the rear spoiler.

The wheels of the RS turbo are 17-inches, while that of the 1.8E are 16-inches.

On the inside, the RS turbo is fitted with leather seats, while the 1.8L comes with fabric seats (which would fit better in a tropical country like the Philippines). The driver’s seat adjustments of the RS turbo is power-operated.

The 1.5RS and 1.8E, however, share some features. Although the 1.5RS comes standard with the LED fog lights, both variants are already installed with headlights, daytime running lights (DRL) and taillights of the LED bulb type.

Just like the 1.5RS, the 1.8E has an auto dimming rear view mirror and rain sensing wipers.

Both come standard with touch screen audio system, though the 1.5RS comes with the navigation system.

VASTLY improved cockpit with exciting new features

An icon earns many orders

HCPI recently released a report citing that, as of June 7, there have been over 1,200 reservations for the Civic.

HCPI said that “the accumulated Civic reservations only shows how Honda’s premium sports sedan has managed to rekindle the fire it has developed with thousands of Filipino customers over the years, who have grown to love the unique qualities that only a Civic can provide. This 10th generation shows that the Civic is truly ‘reborn’.”

It added, “since its launch to the Philippine media last April 26, the All-New Civic was met with much enthusiasm by both motoring journalists, as well as the general public.”

The All-New Civic 1.8E is priced at P1.088 million, while the 1.5RS Turbo goes for P1.398 million, and comes with the available colors Cosmic Blue Metallic (new), Midnight Burgundy Pearl (new), Lunar Silver Metallic, White Orchid Pearl, Rallye Red (for the RS Turbo only) and the Modern Steel Metallic (for 1.8E only).

AN EPIC three-day ride-and-drive on the scenic and winding roads of the island province of Bohol highlighting the official rollout of the 10th generation Civic.

THE NEWEST version of the Civic has all the makings and workings of the legend living up to lofty expectations.