The new generation Honda Civic is almost ready for launch in Australia after being unveiled internationally in June of this year.
Honda Australia has stated that a small number of the 11th-generation hatchback have already arrived ahead of the car’s official on-sale before the end of the year.
Honda says only the five-door hatch will go on sale initially. The new-generation Civic sedan is currently not slated for an Australian release.
The new Honda Civic is stiffer and has a longer wheelbase than the old model.
So what’s new for the 11th generation?
While it shares a development of the ‘Earth Dreams’ platform that debuted under the previous 10th-generation Civic, the new-gen model has been substantially re-engineered.
The body structure has been improved, with a 19 percent increase in torsional rigidity versus the previous generation car.
On the exterior, the new Civic sports a 12mm wider rear track, a 35.5mm longer wheelbase and A-pillars which have moved further rearward for a sportier shape.
The 1.5-litre VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder engine has been improved, too, which now provides more power and torque, as well as providing quicker response and improved fuel efficiency.
Either 7.0-inch or 9.0-inch touchscreens will be available.
Exact engine outputs are still undisclosed at this time, however power is likely to be close to the US-spec Civic’s 134kW at 6000rpm. Torque is rated at 240Nm.
An ‘e-HEV’ hybrid version of the Civic hatch is due here sometime in 2022.
The Civic’s suspension has been specifically tuned on European roads, with new low-friction ball joints fitted to the front struts to improve steering feel.
The new-generation hatch features a completely new interior inspired by the minimalist aesthetic of the third-generation Civic (1983-87).
You’ll notice the new front end and sleeker coupe styling.
Inside, drivers will get a 7.0-inch touchscreen with an optional 9.0-inch screen for the top spec variant, both of which feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For the top model, a 10.2-inch instrument display will feature for the very first time.
A new BOSE sound system is available along with physical buttons and knobs (in a world where many are leaning towards touch-only) for climate and volume control.
What about the Type R?
The Honda Civic Type R might be coming but not until next year.
Honda has already announced that the next generation Type R will be coming to Australia in a five-door hatchback body style.
Honda recently leaked images of the new Type R online which showed a much more subtle exterior than before – possibly due to criticism of the previous generation’s outlandish design.
Engine outputs for the previous FK8 generation were 228kW and 400Nm, however it is likely these figures will see a small increase for the new generation.
Buyers can expect the Type R to retain its six-speed manual gearbox along with a limited-slip differential that proved to be a great package for the last car.