It looks just like the US Civic...
That's because it is the US Civic, except for some really small details like the additional reflectors on the boot cover. Apparently, Honda wasn't in a position to design a bespoke version of the ninth generation Civic for Asian markets _ unlike in the previous model that saw rounder head and tail lights in favour of the more rigid theme of the American variant.
The interior has been redesigned, although it sticks to the same philosophy of the eight-gen Civic: a two-tier fascia that has proven merits in ergonomic terms. The cabin itself has the same flat-floor design to make it one of the roomiest cars in the Thai C-segment class.
So the Civic is mechanically the same as before...
Dash has same two-tier design.
In essence, yes, meaning that the Civic won't rouse buyers who are after the latest in technology. For example, the 1.8-litre petrol engine has been carried over with only microscopic changes in outputs: 141hp of power (up by just 1hp) and 177Nm of torque (up by 4Nm). The five-speed manual and automatic transmission options remain the same.
But there's a slight change in the range-topping 2.0-litre motor. Gone is that proven twin-cam unit in favour of a single-cam variation (like in the 1.8). Power stays at 155hp but is achieved at 6,500rpm _ 500rpm higher than before _ and torque climbs from 188Nm to 190Nm.
The Civic now joins the Mazda 3 as the only C-segment players to have dated five-speeders in their 2.0-litre cars; others are either toying with six-speed automatics, fast-shifting dual-clutchers or smooth-running CVT autos.
Oh, there's one new thing about these engines: they can sip on the ultra-scarce E85 gasohol. However, we reckon that Honda Automobiles Thailand was enticed to such a fuel due to the special 22% excise tax for E85-capable cars (25% for E20 and 30% for E10 to E0).
So the Civic is cheaper than before...
Not necessarily, mate. All-new cars with more features _ like Eco Assist to help improve economy and multi-information display that can be personalised by the driver _ mean higher costs, so lower tax could help absorb some increases.
The main-selling Civics are dearer than before: 1.8 S with manual gearbox costs 773,000 baht (19,000 more) and 1.8 S with automatic is priced at 828,000 baht (34,000 more). The plusher E version asks for 909,000 baht and 964,000 baht with navigation system (both 5,000 less).
Only one trim is available for the 2.0 priced at 1.124 million baht (18,000 more) which comes with front and side airbags, stability control system and sat-nav.
The Civic was officially launched in Thailand yesterday.
Rear gains reflectors on boot cover.
Hmm, it better be good on the move...
Let's hope so, because its competition have caught up. The previous Civic was known for its zippy performance, darty steering, fine driving environment and spacious interior. Downsides were mediocre economy and tyre noise.
Don't forget to pick up Life on May 21 for our test drive report on the new Civic in both 1.8 and 2.0 forms.
