Honda Cars Philippines took the wraps off the long-awaited 9th generation Civic, with an all-new body and interior, as well as electronic enhancements to improve its fuel efficiency. Fuel efficiency is at the center of this new Civic, its “Econ” mode being the highlight of the launch.
One of the hallmarks of a great car is how well it holds its relevance throughout its life cycle. By that standard, the 8th generation Honda Civic, launched in 2006 at the Manila International Auto Show, is a rousing success. It is still the best overall package in its segment, combining huge cabin space, ride comfort, responsive handling, and above all, a fuel-efficient engine.
The new Civic builds on that by promising increased body rigidity with a lighter body, revised suspension, added noise insulation—supposed to increase the “Fun to Drive” factor. The seeming centerpiece of the new car is its new ECON mode. With a press of the ECON button, the car’s drive-by-wire throttle, engine, transmission, and airconditioning switch to more efficient settings. An Eco meter in the instrument panel coaches the drive for more fuel efficient driving by glowing green when driving efficiently and blue when driving more aggressively.
Inside, the Civic retains the two-tier instrument layout, with the addition of a new 5-inch color LCD in the center of the instrument panel. The intelligent-Multi Information Display or i-MID displays fuel consumption, audio, and lights settings.
The Civic launches with a single variant, the 1.8 EXI, powered by the trusty 1.8-liter iVTEC with 140 bhp and 173Nm, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Exterior features are front fog lights, 16-inch alloys, door-mounted turn signals, and rear reverse camera. Interior features include integrated audio with USB socket, six speakers, steering wheel controls, cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and 60:40 split-folding seats done in beige fabric. ABS, dual airbags, and stability assist are standard. Exterior colors are Carnelian Red, Urban Titanium, Taffeta White, and Crystal Black.
Price is 1,074,000. (What, no 8’s?)
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