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For 2006, Honda completely redesigned the
Honda Civic giving it a more athletic, curvier
look. All models (including the base model) come standard with ABS
and side and curtain airbags. Additionally, the 2006 models acquired
a ULEV-2 rating and boast a more powerful 1.8 liter engine than the
2005 counterparts, but still retain almost equal fuel economy. In
the North American market, the sedan, coupé, coupé Si, and Hybrid
models are available. A Sedan Si has been announced for the 2007 or
2008 model year (this would be the first Civic Si sedan). The Sedan
and Coupe all come in 3 available trims (DX, LX, EX) while the Civic
Si and Hybrid are sold "as is" with relatively few options (such as
a navigation system, automatic day/night compass mirrors, and wheel
locks).
The DX model is the base model that comes equipped with
LATCH, immobilizer theft-deterrent system, power windows, power
mirrors, daytime running lights (DRL), 15" wheels with covers,
driver's seat height adjustment, and other features (All Canadian
sold Civics have the 160 watt stereo system). The LX model adds a
160 watt 6-speaker stereo system, air conditioning, 16" wheels with
covers (Alloy wheels in Canadian LX models), cruise control,
MP3/audio jack (Coupe only), passenger side walk in (with memory)
[Coupe only], floor mats, security system with remote entry and
Canadian sold models (except for DX) include heated exterior
mirrors. The EX model adds an optional voice-activated navigation
system, a moonroof, 4 wheel disc brakes, 16" alloy wheels, 2 12-volt
accessory outlets (instead of one), a 350 watt stereo system with 7
speakers (Coupe only, the Sedan EX comes with a 160 watt stereo
system), exterior temperature indicator, rear cup holders with rear
arm rest, and MP3/audio jack.
Honda Civic 2007
Though much will not be changed for the 2007 model year, Honda
plans to introduce the Honda Civic Si Sedan, based on the powertrain
setup of the Coupe. Debuted at the Chicago Auto Show, the initial
concept car will sport larger wheels (18" alloys) than its coupe
brethren, 4-piston Brembo brakes and large cross drill brake rotors
not found on the Coupe Si. Though most likely Honda may strip some
of these features and just market it simply as a 4 door Si with the
same features found on the Si Coupe.
The car is expected to be
released in mid 2006 to late 2006 and badged as a 2007
model.
Honda recently debuted a Type-R concept for the European
Civic at the Geneva Motor Show, the Type-R will use a 2.0 liter 197
hp I4. The car itself will be lighter than the standard Civic as
dictated by Honda Type-R philosophy. Sophisticated handling aids
such as traction control have also been eschewed for a purer, more
soulful driving character. The Type-R should go on sale in 2007
after the regular 3-door hatchback models hit the market.
An even
more extreme Type-RR is also rumored to be forthcoming.
It is
unknown whether Honda will produce a Type-R for other
markets.
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