SpeedJunkyz
January 24th, 2008, 11:01 PM
Europe
<TABLE class=infobox style="FONT-SIZE: 90%; WIDTH: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: left"><TBODY><TR><TH style="FONT-SIZE: larger; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #eeeeee; TEXT-ALIGN: center" colSpan=2>8th generation European Civic</TH></TR><TR><TD style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" colSpan=2>http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3e/2006_Honda_Civic_5-door.jpg/250px-2006_Honda_Civic_5-door.jpg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2006_Honda_Civic_5-door.jpg)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
The European Civic (FN chassis) has a different appearance and is offered primarily as 5-door and 3-door hatchbacks. In the UK, the only sedan available is the Hybrid version. However, in other markets where sedans are more popular (such as Ireland (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ireland) and Finland), a range of sedans similar to the JDM models are available.
The European Civic is built in Swindon, UK.
Mechanically, the European Civic differs from the USDM and JDM variants in that it uses a simpler torsion beam suspension system for the rear wheels compared to the double-wishbone system in the USDM and JDM Civics. This change happened in this generation to allow the car to keep its large interior space, and actually reduce the length of the outgoing model Civic. Externally, the European model is the most aggressively styled; the sweeping front arc is maintained and a perspex cover resembling a lamp cluster replaces the grille. The rear tail lights are also similarly styled. Triangular accents are found front and back, with triangular fog-lamps in front and dual triangle exhaust tips at the back. The rear backglass is split into two levels, divided by a spoiler lip and the fuel filler cap is a race-inspired exposed metal effect cap. For the 5-door models, the rear door is hidden away, with the door handles tucked away at the corners of the rear windows, creating the illusion of a 2-door coupe. Inside, the European Civic follows the same split-level theme, but with circular A/C vents and switchgear. There is also a start button reminiscent of the Honda S2000 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_S2000). The handbrake is in a more conventional position behind the shift lever. All around there is a generous use of metallic trim. Engines include a 1.4 litre i-DSI, the 1.8 litre i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) shared with the USDM and JDM models as well as a 2.2 litre i-CTDi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-CTDi) turbodiesel. A 6-speed manual transmission is available across the range. An automated manual transmission, known as I-SHIFT (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_I-SHIFT) is available for models with 1.8 litre petrol engines. A 2.0 litre i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) petrol Type-R high performance version is also available.
Some other features of the European Civic include "magic seats" in the rear, that not only lay flat to increase boot capacity, but also allow the seat bench to lift up and lay flat against the back rests to create a large loading area in the back behind the front seats. There is also a "hidden" storage compartment in the boot under the floor. The lid, which normally forms part of the boot floor, can be sunk down to a lower level to increase the load area, designed to allow the boot area accommodate larger or taller items. In the normal position, the storage area can be used to hide valuables away under the floor. Some models in the range feature things like electric folding mirrors, a digital speedometer display, a panoramic glass roof, and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers. The range topping EX model also has DVD satellite navigation, and allows the car's entertainment system, climate control, navigation system and hands-free telephone system to be controlled all by voice commands.
The five-door European-market Civic hatchback is also marketed in Israel and South Africa. Conversely, in certain European markets such as the UK, the four-door JDM Civic is available with the hybrid powertrain; and in some Eastern European countries it is available with the 1.8 L i-VTEC.
Further information and reference regarding the 8th generation European Civic is available in the Wiki section of Civinfo.com on http://www.civinfo.com/wiki/ (http://www.civinfo.com/wiki/)
North America
The North American market Civic Si is a special trim level designed to offer a sportier experience than the standard Civic. It offers a more powerful engine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine), 6-speed manual transmission, sport seats, and different styling. The engine is a variant of the Honda K engine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_K_engine): a 2.0-liter, DOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DOHC) four-cylinder design with Honda's i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VTEC#i-VTEC) variable valve timing (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_valve_timing) system. It produces 197 hp (197 PS/147 kW), 57 more than the Civic sedan. A 350 Watt, 7-speaker sound system, including subwoofer, is also included along with a helical limited-slip differential, close ratio 6-speed gearbox, and unique Si cloth seats. The Civic Si coupe debuted along with the MY2006 models, with the Civic Si sedan following in MY2007.
In the fall of 2007, a slight variant on the standard Si sedan model, the Honda Civic Mugen Si sedan (MY2008), was introduced. While Mugen Motorsports (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mugen_Motorsports) is known for its performance heritage, the Mugen Si project is more concerned with cosmetic alterations to the standard Si. Honda (http://automobiles.honda.com/civic-si-sedan/mugen.aspx) has announced that a total of 1000 Mugen Si cars will be produced for the U.S. domestic market (USDM), and lists the following as "exclusive standard features" of the car:
Twin-Ring Motegi track-tuned suspension
Aerodynamic body styling
"Cat-back" sports exhaust system
Highly aggressive spring and damper tuning
Mugen –forged aluminum wheels measure 18 x 7.5 inches
High-grip summer tires (215/40R18)
Front spoiler and sports grille
Side spoilers
Rear diffuser
Adjustable rear wing
Improved exhaust that boosts horsepower to 202 (from the Si's 197)All Civics (including their trims) have unique covers/wheels specific to their car and come standard with cloth seats. For the 2008 model year, Honda added the EX-L trim level, which adds heated leather and side mirrors along with a leather wrapped steering wheel to the EX trim level. Additionally, they feature a new "two-tier" instrument panel. MPH-km/h, coolant temperature, and fuel is displayed at the top while the lower tier displays the tachometer. The brightness on these displays can be adjusted. The Civic Si changes the backlight from blue to red, while the Hybrid features IMA Assist and Charge indicators on its display.
The rest of the Americas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Americas) receive the North American-market Civic sedan (and coupe in some countries).
Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Chile
For the Brazilian market, the eighth generation Civic is available only with a sedan body, and it is externally almost identical to the USDM version, having different bumpers and a higher ground clearance. It is available in three trim levels. The LXS and EXS levels are equipped with the 1.8 L i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) SOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SOHC) engine generating 140 ps at 6300 rpm. Both models might be equipped with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, but only the EXS has the paddle shift controls on the steering wheel. The LX trim is a special model, based on the LXS, available only for handicapped individuals and has its power restricted to 125 ps and automatic transmission, in order to be eligible for special tax breaks. The 2006 Civic received the "Best Buy" award from Quatro Rodas magazine, the most prestigious car magazine in the country. The recommended prices for 2006 Civics in Brazil range from R$61,745.00 to 80,750.00, but due to high demand, new Civics are being sold for about 10% more than the recommended price. The Si sedan was announced at Salão do Automóvel in São Paulo, it will feature a 2.0 L i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) DOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DOHC) at 192 PS (143 kW) (195 PS or 145 kW when using premium unleaded gasoline). For the 2007 model, Honda introduced a new Flexible Fuel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flexible-fuel_vehicle) version, featuring the same 1.8 L engine, having 140 PS (103 kW) when running only on ethanol or 138 PS (101 kW) when running on gasoline. Argentina, Uruguay , Perú and Chile also receives the Brazilian models. The price ranges from US$35,000 to $40,000 (Argentina) and from $10.500.000 to $19.900.000 (Chile).
Mainland China
Dongfeng Honda Automobile, one of Honda's joint ventures in China, assembles and markets the Civic in China. Its exterior is the same as the North American-market Civic, except with amber tail turnlights and only the sedan model is available.
Type R
Honda debuted a Type R (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_R) concept (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_car) for the European Civic at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geneva_Motor_Show); the Type R has a 2.0 litre 201 bhp (150 kW) at 7800 rpm I4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight-4). The suspension uses McPherson struts (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McPherson_strut) up front and a torsion beam (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torsion_beam) in the back, while the car itself was initially thought to be lighter than the standard Civic as dictated by Honda Type R (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Type_R) philosophy. Sophisticated handling aids such as traction control (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traction_control) were initially thought to be completely eschewed for a purer, more soulful driving character. In the end, Honda did include a special version of their VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) that was specifically tuned to the car so as to better adhere to said philosophy. The Type R went on sale in the UK in February or March 2007, and is scheduled to reach Australia in July the same year. The European Civic Type R also went on sale in Brunei.
The JDM/ASIAN(ex. China) market 4-door Civic Type R went on sale on March 29 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_29), 2007 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007). The Type R powered by an uprated K20A 2.0 litre iVTEC engine producing 225 PS (165 kW) at 8000 rpm (Available in Japan and Malaysia only), while the other JDM markets have 201 bhp (150 kW) at 7800 rpm and comes with a specially tuned sports suspension that includes new Brembo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brembo) brakes. The prototype Type R was used as the official car of the Formula 1 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formula_1) 2006 Japanese Grand Prix (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_Japanese_Grand_Prix). This will mark the first time that Honda will produce two separate distinct Civic Type R models.
Civic Type R
<DL><DD>Main article: Honda Civic Type R (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic_Type_R)
</DD></DL>The Civic Type R reperesents the top of the Civic line up. Sporting increased power and stiff suspension settings and efforts to lighten the vehicle by removing superfluous equipment. It has never been sold in North America.
Civic Si
<DL><DD>Main article: Honda Civic Si (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic_Si)
</DD></DL>The Civic Si is a sporty version of the Civic sold in the US market. Initially the Si trim level denoted the highest trim level and was used internationally. Each generation has sported a more powerful engine, tighter suspension settings, and cosmetic changes to differentiate it from the other trim levels. For the 2008 model year, the SI sedan will be available in Canada.
As of 8gen of Civic hatchback for the EDM market is named Type S (instead of Si), which featured the 1,8L i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) R18A2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_R_engine#R18A2) engine with 140HP.
International marketing
While the Civic is sold in largely the same form worldwide, differences in the name of the models exist between markets. In Japan, the hatchback (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatchback) Civic is just called "Civic" while the sedan model was called the "Civic Ferio" during the fifth and sixth generation. The sixth-generation sedan was also sold as the Integra SJ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Integra#Integra_SJ). In Europe and the United States, "Civic" generically refers to any model, though in Europe the coupe is branded the "Civic Coupe". A four-door station wagon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon) model called the Civic Shuttle (also Civic Pro in Japan) was available from 1984 until 1991 (this brand name would later be revived for the mid-1990s Honda Shuttle people carrier, known in some markets as the Honda Stream (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Stream)). In South Africa, the sedan (the only model sold there until the 1996 launch of the sixth generation sedan and hatch) was known as the "Ballade".
Other models have been built off the Civic platform, including the Ballade (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Ballade), the CR-X (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_CRX), Quint (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Quint), Concerto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Concerto), Domani (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Domani), CR-X Del Sol (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Del_Sol), and the Integra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Integra). Also, at various times, the Civic or Civic-derived models have been sold by marques other than Honda — for example, Rover (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_%28car%29) sold the 200 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_200), 400 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_400) and 45 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_45), each of which were Civic-based at some point (first 200s were the second generation Ballade; from 1990 the 200 and 400 were based on the Concerto; the 400 was the 1995 Domani), as was their predecessor, the Triumph Acclaim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triumph_Acclaim), based on the first Honda Ballade. The Honda Domani, an upscale model based on the Civic, was sold as the Isuzu Gemini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isuzu_Gemini) in Japan (1992-2000), and confusingly the 5-door Domani was sold as the Honda Civic (along with the "real" hatchback and sedan Civics) in Europe from 1995 to 2000. In Thailand (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand), the Civic was available as the four-door Isuzu Vertex. The sixth-generation station wagon was sold as the Honda Orthia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Orthia), with the Partner as the downmarket commercial variant. The seventh generation minivan model is called the Honda Stream (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Stream). In Canada (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada), the sixth and seventh generation Civics were mildly redesigned to create the Acura EL (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acura_EL) until the advent of the eight generation Civic, which was used to create the Acura CSX (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acura_CSX).
The three-door hatchback body style has been somewhat unpopular in the United States (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States), but has achieved wide acceptance in Canada (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada), as well as popularity in Japan and European markets, helping cement Honda's reputation as a maker of sporty compact (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_car) models. Starting in 2002, the Civic three-door hatchback has been built exclusively at Honda's manufacturing plant (http://www.mfg.honda.co.uk/Internet/HUM00254.nsf/All/5DEBYCJSEO?opendocument) in Swindon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swindon), England (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/England) - previously the five-door "Civic"/Domani and the Civic Aerodeck (based on the Japanese Orthia) were built in this plant for sale in Europe along with the Japanese EK-series Civics. Accordingly, all instances of the current model (left or right hand drive, anywhere in the world) are British (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom)-made cars designed with Japanese engineering, except for the US-built two-door coupe and the sedan version built in Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil) for the Latin American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin_America) market.
In North America (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America), the Civic hatchback was dropped for 2006. The 2006 model year standard Civics for North America are manufactured in Alliston, Ontario (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alliston%2C_Ontario), Canada (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada) (sedans, coupes and Si Coupes) and East Liberty, Ohio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Liberty%2C_Ohio) (sedans), while the Hybrid version is manufactured in Japan.
In Asia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia), the oldest Honda (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda) assembly (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assembly_line)/manufacturing (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing) facility is near Lahore (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lahore), Pakistan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan) and the Civic has been produced in large numbers since 1994. The 2006 Civic was launched in the local market with a firm view of exporting this model to other countries by 2007. In India (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India), the Civic sedan was launched in July 2006 for the first time.
In Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil), although being considered for local manufacturing since the early 1980s (it was illegal to import cars in Brazil from 1973 until 1990), the Civic wasn't available until 1992, via official importing. In 1997, production of the sixth generation Civic sedan started in the Sumaré (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumar%C3%A9) (a city near Campinas, in the state of São Paulo) factory. The only differences between the Japanese model and the Brazilian model were a slightly higher ground clearance, due to the country's road conditions and adaptations to make the engine suitable to Brazilian commercial gasoline, which contains about 25% ethanol (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethanol). The seventh generation production started in 2001, displacing the Chevrolet Vectra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Vectra) from the top sales record for the mid-size sedan segment, however it lost that position to the Toyota Corolla (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Corolla) the following year. In 2006, the eighth generation was released and regained the sales leadership.
Safety
The Civic's crash test performance has been rated highly by both the US Government's NHTSA<SUP class=reference id=_ref-1>[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-1)</SUP> and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety<SUP class=reference id=_ref-2>[4] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-2)</SUP>. The IIHS lists the Civic as the top 2007 small car in overall crashworthiness<SUP class=reference id=_ref-3>[5] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-3)</SUP>.
In Australia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia), 1982–2004 Civics were assessed in the Used Car Safety Ratings 2006 on their level of occupant protection.<SUP class=reference id=_ref-4>[6] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-4)</SUP>
(1982–1983) - "worse than average"
(1984–1987) - "significantly worse than average"
(1988–1991) - "worse than average"
(1992–2004) - "average"It should be noted that these ratings compare cars of different sizes and different eras. Most small cars from the 1980s are rated "worse than average" or "significantly worse than average" while most small cars from the 1990s are rated "average".
The EG Civic received heavy criticism from the German magazine Auto, motor und sport (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Auto%2C_motor_und_sport&action=edit) for being unsafe after a crash test (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crash_test) done in 1993. The body collapsed and despite a drivers airbag (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airbag), there was a very high risk of life-threatening injuries.
Modifications and the enthusiast community
In many areas, the Civic is popular as a platform for modification and customization by an enthusiast community (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Import_scene). Civics prior to the fifth and sixth generation had a high power-to-weight ratio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-to-weight_ratio) and a higher hp-to-liter output compared to many of their direct competitors which allowed for naturally better acceleration, braking and handling given similar parts. As well, advanced four-wheel independent suspension inspired by Honda's racing research allowed class-leading handling in the fourth generation, which continued on until the 2001 model. Also, because of parts interchangeability, many Civics which were originally equipped with lower-power engines can later be equipped with a newer Honda engine, or many other upgrades. The City Turbo engine is a good fit to the Civic engine bay in many models, and provides a significant increase in the power-to-weight ratio compared to the non-performance engines, thus boosting performance.
Also, many fourth, fifth, and sixth generation Civics can be similarly upgraded by replacing their original economy-oriented engines with a DOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DOHC) VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VTEC) engine — commonly one of the B-series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_B_engine) engines such as a B16A, which was also original equipment in some performance models of the Civic.
The most recent models, while still competitive as tuner projects, have succumbed to added weight, reduced suspension technology and higher centers of gravity which has significantly reduced their appeal amongst passionate drivers. These changes made the car safer on the whole though, and helped the Civic sell better to the average consumer.
The North American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America) 2006 Civic Si demonstrates that the Civic line has seen a return to sportiness and performance. This addition to the North American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America) market more closely resembles the European and Japanese Civic Type-R than earlier Si models. The major differences between the 2007 European Civic Type-R and the Civic Si is the lack of a multi-link rear suspension and limited slip differential in the Type-R model, utilizing instead a torsion beam rear suspension; note that the models use completely different chassis. Though the models are different in style, hatchback vs. coupe, they both share the same K20Z3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_K_engine) engine. This newest generation of the Civic Si offers a 2.0 L 197 hp (147 kW) K20Z3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_K_engine) engine, utilizing a drive by wire (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drive_by_wire) throttle, electric power steering, and a balance shaft. Moreover, this new engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with a helical-type limited slip differential (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Differential_%28mechanics%29). Finally, a reengineered MacPherson strut (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MacPherson_strut) front, and multi-link rear suspension allows the Civic Si to achieve 0.90 g (8.8 m/s²) avg of lateral acceleration on the skidpad. A Honda Factory Performance (HFP) suspension is a US$600 option, and includes stiffer springs and different struts.
<TABLE class=infobox style="FONT-SIZE: 90%; WIDTH: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: left"><TBODY><TR><TH style="FONT-SIZE: larger; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #eeeeee; TEXT-ALIGN: center" colSpan=2>8th generation European Civic</TH></TR><TR><TD style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" colSpan=2>http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3e/2006_Honda_Civic_5-door.jpg/250px-2006_Honda_Civic_5-door.jpg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:2006_Honda_Civic_5-door.jpg)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
The European Civic (FN chassis) has a different appearance and is offered primarily as 5-door and 3-door hatchbacks. In the UK, the only sedan available is the Hybrid version. However, in other markets where sedans are more popular (such as Ireland (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ireland) and Finland), a range of sedans similar to the JDM models are available.
The European Civic is built in Swindon, UK.
Mechanically, the European Civic differs from the USDM and JDM variants in that it uses a simpler torsion beam suspension system for the rear wheels compared to the double-wishbone system in the USDM and JDM Civics. This change happened in this generation to allow the car to keep its large interior space, and actually reduce the length of the outgoing model Civic. Externally, the European model is the most aggressively styled; the sweeping front arc is maintained and a perspex cover resembling a lamp cluster replaces the grille. The rear tail lights are also similarly styled. Triangular accents are found front and back, with triangular fog-lamps in front and dual triangle exhaust tips at the back. The rear backglass is split into two levels, divided by a spoiler lip and the fuel filler cap is a race-inspired exposed metal effect cap. For the 5-door models, the rear door is hidden away, with the door handles tucked away at the corners of the rear windows, creating the illusion of a 2-door coupe. Inside, the European Civic follows the same split-level theme, but with circular A/C vents and switchgear. There is also a start button reminiscent of the Honda S2000 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_S2000). The handbrake is in a more conventional position behind the shift lever. All around there is a generous use of metallic trim. Engines include a 1.4 litre i-DSI, the 1.8 litre i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) shared with the USDM and JDM models as well as a 2.2 litre i-CTDi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-CTDi) turbodiesel. A 6-speed manual transmission is available across the range. An automated manual transmission, known as I-SHIFT (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_I-SHIFT) is available for models with 1.8 litre petrol engines. A 2.0 litre i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) petrol Type-R high performance version is also available.
Some other features of the European Civic include "magic seats" in the rear, that not only lay flat to increase boot capacity, but also allow the seat bench to lift up and lay flat against the back rests to create a large loading area in the back behind the front seats. There is also a "hidden" storage compartment in the boot under the floor. The lid, which normally forms part of the boot floor, can be sunk down to a lower level to increase the load area, designed to allow the boot area accommodate larger or taller items. In the normal position, the storage area can be used to hide valuables away under the floor. Some models in the range feature things like electric folding mirrors, a digital speedometer display, a panoramic glass roof, and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers. The range topping EX model also has DVD satellite navigation, and allows the car's entertainment system, climate control, navigation system and hands-free telephone system to be controlled all by voice commands.
The five-door European-market Civic hatchback is also marketed in Israel and South Africa. Conversely, in certain European markets such as the UK, the four-door JDM Civic is available with the hybrid powertrain; and in some Eastern European countries it is available with the 1.8 L i-VTEC.
Further information and reference regarding the 8th generation European Civic is available in the Wiki section of Civinfo.com on http://www.civinfo.com/wiki/ (http://www.civinfo.com/wiki/)
North America
The North American market Civic Si is a special trim level designed to offer a sportier experience than the standard Civic. It offers a more powerful engine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine), 6-speed manual transmission, sport seats, and different styling. The engine is a variant of the Honda K engine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_K_engine): a 2.0-liter, DOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DOHC) four-cylinder design with Honda's i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VTEC#i-VTEC) variable valve timing (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_valve_timing) system. It produces 197 hp (197 PS/147 kW), 57 more than the Civic sedan. A 350 Watt, 7-speaker sound system, including subwoofer, is also included along with a helical limited-slip differential, close ratio 6-speed gearbox, and unique Si cloth seats. The Civic Si coupe debuted along with the MY2006 models, with the Civic Si sedan following in MY2007.
In the fall of 2007, a slight variant on the standard Si sedan model, the Honda Civic Mugen Si sedan (MY2008), was introduced. While Mugen Motorsports (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mugen_Motorsports) is known for its performance heritage, the Mugen Si project is more concerned with cosmetic alterations to the standard Si. Honda (http://automobiles.honda.com/civic-si-sedan/mugen.aspx) has announced that a total of 1000 Mugen Si cars will be produced for the U.S. domestic market (USDM), and lists the following as "exclusive standard features" of the car:
Twin-Ring Motegi track-tuned suspension
Aerodynamic body styling
"Cat-back" sports exhaust system
Highly aggressive spring and damper tuning
Mugen –forged aluminum wheels measure 18 x 7.5 inches
High-grip summer tires (215/40R18)
Front spoiler and sports grille
Side spoilers
Rear diffuser
Adjustable rear wing
Improved exhaust that boosts horsepower to 202 (from the Si's 197)All Civics (including their trims) have unique covers/wheels specific to their car and come standard with cloth seats. For the 2008 model year, Honda added the EX-L trim level, which adds heated leather and side mirrors along with a leather wrapped steering wheel to the EX trim level. Additionally, they feature a new "two-tier" instrument panel. MPH-km/h, coolant temperature, and fuel is displayed at the top while the lower tier displays the tachometer. The brightness on these displays can be adjusted. The Civic Si changes the backlight from blue to red, while the Hybrid features IMA Assist and Charge indicators on its display.
The rest of the Americas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Americas) receive the North American-market Civic sedan (and coupe in some countries).
Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Chile
For the Brazilian market, the eighth generation Civic is available only with a sedan body, and it is externally almost identical to the USDM version, having different bumpers and a higher ground clearance. It is available in three trim levels. The LXS and EXS levels are equipped with the 1.8 L i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) SOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SOHC) engine generating 140 ps at 6300 rpm. Both models might be equipped with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, but only the EXS has the paddle shift controls on the steering wheel. The LX trim is a special model, based on the LXS, available only for handicapped individuals and has its power restricted to 125 ps and automatic transmission, in order to be eligible for special tax breaks. The 2006 Civic received the "Best Buy" award from Quatro Rodas magazine, the most prestigious car magazine in the country. The recommended prices for 2006 Civics in Brazil range from R$61,745.00 to 80,750.00, but due to high demand, new Civics are being sold for about 10% more than the recommended price. The Si sedan was announced at Salão do Automóvel in São Paulo, it will feature a 2.0 L i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) DOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DOHC) at 192 PS (143 kW) (195 PS or 145 kW when using premium unleaded gasoline). For the 2007 model, Honda introduced a new Flexible Fuel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flexible-fuel_vehicle) version, featuring the same 1.8 L engine, having 140 PS (103 kW) when running only on ethanol or 138 PS (101 kW) when running on gasoline. Argentina, Uruguay , Perú and Chile also receives the Brazilian models. The price ranges from US$35,000 to $40,000 (Argentina) and from $10.500.000 to $19.900.000 (Chile).
Mainland China
Dongfeng Honda Automobile, one of Honda's joint ventures in China, assembles and markets the Civic in China. Its exterior is the same as the North American-market Civic, except with amber tail turnlights and only the sedan model is available.
Type R
Honda debuted a Type R (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_R) concept (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_car) for the European Civic at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geneva_Motor_Show); the Type R has a 2.0 litre 201 bhp (150 kW) at 7800 rpm I4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight-4). The suspension uses McPherson struts (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McPherson_strut) up front and a torsion beam (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torsion_beam) in the back, while the car itself was initially thought to be lighter than the standard Civic as dictated by Honda Type R (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Type_R) philosophy. Sophisticated handling aids such as traction control (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traction_control) were initially thought to be completely eschewed for a purer, more soulful driving character. In the end, Honda did include a special version of their VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) that was specifically tuned to the car so as to better adhere to said philosophy. The Type R went on sale in the UK in February or March 2007, and is scheduled to reach Australia in July the same year. The European Civic Type R also went on sale in Brunei.
The JDM/ASIAN(ex. China) market 4-door Civic Type R went on sale on March 29 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_29), 2007 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007). The Type R powered by an uprated K20A 2.0 litre iVTEC engine producing 225 PS (165 kW) at 8000 rpm (Available in Japan and Malaysia only), while the other JDM markets have 201 bhp (150 kW) at 7800 rpm and comes with a specially tuned sports suspension that includes new Brembo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brembo) brakes. The prototype Type R was used as the official car of the Formula 1 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formula_1) 2006 Japanese Grand Prix (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_Japanese_Grand_Prix). This will mark the first time that Honda will produce two separate distinct Civic Type R models.
Civic Type R
<DL><DD>Main article: Honda Civic Type R (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic_Type_R)
</DD></DL>The Civic Type R reperesents the top of the Civic line up. Sporting increased power and stiff suspension settings and efforts to lighten the vehicle by removing superfluous equipment. It has never been sold in North America.
Civic Si
<DL><DD>Main article: Honda Civic Si (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic_Si)
</DD></DL>The Civic Si is a sporty version of the Civic sold in the US market. Initially the Si trim level denoted the highest trim level and was used internationally. Each generation has sported a more powerful engine, tighter suspension settings, and cosmetic changes to differentiate it from the other trim levels. For the 2008 model year, the SI sedan will be available in Canada.
As of 8gen of Civic hatchback for the EDM market is named Type S (instead of Si), which featured the 1,8L i-VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-VTEC) R18A2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_R_engine#R18A2) engine with 140HP.
International marketing
While the Civic is sold in largely the same form worldwide, differences in the name of the models exist between markets. In Japan, the hatchback (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatchback) Civic is just called "Civic" while the sedan model was called the "Civic Ferio" during the fifth and sixth generation. The sixth-generation sedan was also sold as the Integra SJ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Integra#Integra_SJ). In Europe and the United States, "Civic" generically refers to any model, though in Europe the coupe is branded the "Civic Coupe". A four-door station wagon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_wagon) model called the Civic Shuttle (also Civic Pro in Japan) was available from 1984 until 1991 (this brand name would later be revived for the mid-1990s Honda Shuttle people carrier, known in some markets as the Honda Stream (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Stream)). In South Africa, the sedan (the only model sold there until the 1996 launch of the sixth generation sedan and hatch) was known as the "Ballade".
Other models have been built off the Civic platform, including the Ballade (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Ballade), the CR-X (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_CRX), Quint (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Quint), Concerto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Concerto), Domani (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Domani), CR-X Del Sol (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Del_Sol), and the Integra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Integra). Also, at various times, the Civic or Civic-derived models have been sold by marques other than Honda — for example, Rover (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_%28car%29) sold the 200 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_200), 400 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_400) and 45 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rover_45), each of which were Civic-based at some point (first 200s were the second generation Ballade; from 1990 the 200 and 400 were based on the Concerto; the 400 was the 1995 Domani), as was their predecessor, the Triumph Acclaim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triumph_Acclaim), based on the first Honda Ballade. The Honda Domani, an upscale model based on the Civic, was sold as the Isuzu Gemini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isuzu_Gemini) in Japan (1992-2000), and confusingly the 5-door Domani was sold as the Honda Civic (along with the "real" hatchback and sedan Civics) in Europe from 1995 to 2000. In Thailand (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand), the Civic was available as the four-door Isuzu Vertex. The sixth-generation station wagon was sold as the Honda Orthia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Orthia), with the Partner as the downmarket commercial variant. The seventh generation minivan model is called the Honda Stream (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Stream). In Canada (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada), the sixth and seventh generation Civics were mildly redesigned to create the Acura EL (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acura_EL) until the advent of the eight generation Civic, which was used to create the Acura CSX (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acura_CSX).
The three-door hatchback body style has been somewhat unpopular in the United States (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States), but has achieved wide acceptance in Canada (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada), as well as popularity in Japan and European markets, helping cement Honda's reputation as a maker of sporty compact (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_car) models. Starting in 2002, the Civic three-door hatchback has been built exclusively at Honda's manufacturing plant (http://www.mfg.honda.co.uk/Internet/HUM00254.nsf/All/5DEBYCJSEO?opendocument) in Swindon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swindon), England (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/England) - previously the five-door "Civic"/Domani and the Civic Aerodeck (based on the Japanese Orthia) were built in this plant for sale in Europe along with the Japanese EK-series Civics. Accordingly, all instances of the current model (left or right hand drive, anywhere in the world) are British (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom)-made cars designed with Japanese engineering, except for the US-built two-door coupe and the sedan version built in Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil) for the Latin American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin_America) market.
In North America (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America), the Civic hatchback was dropped for 2006. The 2006 model year standard Civics for North America are manufactured in Alliston, Ontario (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alliston%2C_Ontario), Canada (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada) (sedans, coupes and Si Coupes) and East Liberty, Ohio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Liberty%2C_Ohio) (sedans), while the Hybrid version is manufactured in Japan.
In Asia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia), the oldest Honda (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda) assembly (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assembly_line)/manufacturing (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing) facility is near Lahore (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lahore), Pakistan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan) and the Civic has been produced in large numbers since 1994. The 2006 Civic was launched in the local market with a firm view of exporting this model to other countries by 2007. In India (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India), the Civic sedan was launched in July 2006 for the first time.
In Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil), although being considered for local manufacturing since the early 1980s (it was illegal to import cars in Brazil from 1973 until 1990), the Civic wasn't available until 1992, via official importing. In 1997, production of the sixth generation Civic sedan started in the Sumaré (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumar%C3%A9) (a city near Campinas, in the state of São Paulo) factory. The only differences between the Japanese model and the Brazilian model were a slightly higher ground clearance, due to the country's road conditions and adaptations to make the engine suitable to Brazilian commercial gasoline, which contains about 25% ethanol (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethanol). The seventh generation production started in 2001, displacing the Chevrolet Vectra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Vectra) from the top sales record for the mid-size sedan segment, however it lost that position to the Toyota Corolla (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Corolla) the following year. In 2006, the eighth generation was released and regained the sales leadership.
Safety
The Civic's crash test performance has been rated highly by both the US Government's NHTSA<SUP class=reference id=_ref-1>[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-1)</SUP> and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety<SUP class=reference id=_ref-2>[4] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-2)</SUP>. The IIHS lists the Civic as the top 2007 small car in overall crashworthiness<SUP class=reference id=_ref-3>[5] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-3)</SUP>.
In Australia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia), 1982–2004 Civics were assessed in the Used Car Safety Ratings 2006 on their level of occupant protection.<SUP class=reference id=_ref-4>[6] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Civic#_note-4)</SUP>
(1982–1983) - "worse than average"
(1984–1987) - "significantly worse than average"
(1988–1991) - "worse than average"
(1992–2004) - "average"It should be noted that these ratings compare cars of different sizes and different eras. Most small cars from the 1980s are rated "worse than average" or "significantly worse than average" while most small cars from the 1990s are rated "average".
The EG Civic received heavy criticism from the German magazine Auto, motor und sport (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Auto%2C_motor_und_sport&action=edit) for being unsafe after a crash test (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crash_test) done in 1993. The body collapsed and despite a drivers airbag (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airbag), there was a very high risk of life-threatening injuries.
Modifications and the enthusiast community
In many areas, the Civic is popular as a platform for modification and customization by an enthusiast community (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Import_scene). Civics prior to the fifth and sixth generation had a high power-to-weight ratio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-to-weight_ratio) and a higher hp-to-liter output compared to many of their direct competitors which allowed for naturally better acceleration, braking and handling given similar parts. As well, advanced four-wheel independent suspension inspired by Honda's racing research allowed class-leading handling in the fourth generation, which continued on until the 2001 model. Also, because of parts interchangeability, many Civics which were originally equipped with lower-power engines can later be equipped with a newer Honda engine, or many other upgrades. The City Turbo engine is a good fit to the Civic engine bay in many models, and provides a significant increase in the power-to-weight ratio compared to the non-performance engines, thus boosting performance.
Also, many fourth, fifth, and sixth generation Civics can be similarly upgraded by replacing their original economy-oriented engines with a DOHC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DOHC) VTEC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VTEC) engine — commonly one of the B-series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_B_engine) engines such as a B16A, which was also original equipment in some performance models of the Civic.
The most recent models, while still competitive as tuner projects, have succumbed to added weight, reduced suspension technology and higher centers of gravity which has significantly reduced their appeal amongst passionate drivers. These changes made the car safer on the whole though, and helped the Civic sell better to the average consumer.
The North American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America) 2006 Civic Si demonstrates that the Civic line has seen a return to sportiness and performance. This addition to the North American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America) market more closely resembles the European and Japanese Civic Type-R than earlier Si models. The major differences between the 2007 European Civic Type-R and the Civic Si is the lack of a multi-link rear suspension and limited slip differential in the Type-R model, utilizing instead a torsion beam rear suspension; note that the models use completely different chassis. Though the models are different in style, hatchback vs. coupe, they both share the same K20Z3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_K_engine) engine. This newest generation of the Civic Si offers a 2.0 L 197 hp (147 kW) K20Z3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_K_engine) engine, utilizing a drive by wire (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drive_by_wire) throttle, electric power steering, and a balance shaft. Moreover, this new engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with a helical-type limited slip differential (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Differential_%28mechanics%29). Finally, a reengineered MacPherson strut (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MacPherson_strut) front, and multi-link rear suspension allows the Civic Si to achieve 0.90 g (8.8 m/s²) avg of lateral acceleration on the skidpad. A Honda Factory Performance (HFP) suspension is a US$600 option, and includes stiffer springs and different struts.