(01 Mar 05)

The five-door hatchback shown here is described as a Civic Concept, but according to Honda its styling is very close to that of the production model which will go on sale early next year.

If so, we're looking at a considerable change in Honda design philosophy. Previous five-door Civics have rarely attempted to be glamorous, but the Concept is distinctly sportier. Like an increasing number of cars (various Alfa Romeos, new Seat Leon) it uses hidden rear door handles and trick window lines to give the impression of being a coupé.

This ties in with Honda's determination to create, in the words of company President Takeo Fukui, "a new benchmark [in the sector] based on the quality and performance of the new car". The excellent 2.2-litre i-CTDi diesel engine - first seen in the Accord, and more recently in the CR-V and FR-V - will be used in the Civic, as will a range of petrol engines about which Honda is keeping quiet for now.

As with the current generation, there will also be a four-door version using Honda's IMA petrol/electric hybrid technology. Vehicle Stability Assist will be standard on all models, as will side curtain airbags.

The existing Civic is sold in around 160 countries and accounts for 30% of total Honda sales. European-market versions of the new car will be built in Swindon, as will the i-CTDi diesel engine.

Honda Road Tests

Back to News index