Honda reveals 10th-generation Civic Sedan for US market
The 2016 Honda Civic Sedan debuts with new turbo engine options, improved interior space and a lighter, more rigid body, setting the stage for a broader Civic line-up.
Honda has unveiled the 10th-generation Civic Sedan for the US, marking a major update for the brand’s best-selling compact. The 2016 Civic arrives with a new platform, a choice of two engines, including a turbocharged option for the first time in the US market, and a raft of improvements in space, technology and efficiency. Sales are set to begin in autumn 2015.
New platform and lighter body
Honda claims a 25 percent improvement in torsional rigidity for the new Civic, achieved through extensive use of ultra-high strength steel. The new body is 31 kg lighter than its predecessor, and aerodynamic efficiency has improved by 12 percent thanks to full underbody covers. Cabin air leaks have also been reduced by 58 percent through new body-sealing techniques, which should benefit refinement and efficiency.
Engines and performance
The US-market Civic Sedan launches with two petrol engines. The base unit is a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated 16-valve engine producing 158 hp, paired with either a six-speed manual or a CVT. The headline addition is a new 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with 173 hp, available only with a CVT. This is the first time a US Civic has offered a turbocharged petrol engine, reflecting Honda’s push for greater efficiency and performance in its mainstream models.
Interior and technology
Interior space has grown, with Honda quoting an extra 3.7 cubic feet of passenger volume and 2 inches of additional rear legroom. Boot capacity is up by 2.6 cubic feet. Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, auto up/down front windows, electronic parking brake, walk-away auto door locks, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a redesigned centre console with 7.2 litres of storage. Dual-zone climate control is fitted to EX-L and higher trims.
Production and future variants
Production for the US market will take place at Honda’s Greensburg, Indiana and Alliston, Ontario plants. The 10th-generation Civic Sedan is the first in a new family that will include a coupe, five-door hatchback, the Si and Type R models. Honda’s expansion of the Civic line-up in North America is expected to follow, with further details to be announced closer to launch.
For details on the high-performance Civic Type R, seeour Geneva Motor Show coverage.
