Honda Civic History

[dillongt]

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is an automobile manufactured by Honda. It was introduced in July 1972 as a two-door sedan, followed by a 3-door hatchback version that September. With the transverse engine placement of its 1169 cc engine and front wheel drive, like the British Mini, the car provided good interior space despite overall small dimensions.

Early models of the Civic were typically outfitted with a basic AM radio, rudimentary heater, foam cushioned plastic trim, two-speed wipers, and painted steel rims with a chromed wheel nut cap. The current Civic has become much more luxurious with satellite-linked navigation, a six-speed manual, power locks and power windows available. Still, many regard the Civic as representing a good value for the money, combining good performance, reliability and economy, as well as a very low rate of depreciation, resulting in a low total cost per mile or per year.

Models and equipment

Initially the Civic was sold with either a four-speed manual or a two speed "HondaMatic" model. Later models went to a five-speed manual and a full four-speed automatic transmission. Like the Mini, the transaxle was integrated with the engine unit, but driveshaft technology in the Civic was well ahead of the universal joints of the Mini.

The Civic evolved from having a 1170 cc engine (1973) to having engines with larger capacities and more creature comforts (air conditioning, power windows, etc.) through the 1980s, 1990s and into the 2000s.

Beginning in 1997 [1], Honda produced the first iteration of Civic to receive the "Type-R" appellation (applied first to the Integra Type-R), with the EK9 chassis Civic Type-R. The EK9-generation Civic Type-R had a maximum output in the range of 180 PS JIS (177 hp/132 kW), increased over the more common 160 PS (158 hp/118 kW) B16A engine in the SiR/VTi models, and included various alterations to the chassis to improve handling and reduce weight (such as better welding of the frame, and removal of the radio and noise-suppressing materials).

In 2001, Honda announced the release of the Civic Type-R for the EP chassis, a more sporty variant of the most recent model of Civic and successor to the EK9 Civic Type-R. Unlike the EK9 version, which was produced solely in Japan, the EP Civic Type-R is produced in the United Kingdom and exported to Japan. The EP Civic Type-R has a specific output of 200 PS (197 hp/147 kW) at 8000 rpm, a six-speed manual transmission, a reworked exterior with a bullet-like hatchback design, aeroform bumpers, spoiler, and 17 in wheels. The interior of the Type-R includes Recaro seats and a Momo steering wheel, and the model also includes Type-R-specific badging, a helical limited-slip differential, and has been reported to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 6.8 seconds (6.6 in facelifted model).

The hybrid version became available in 2003, which uses both a small (1.3 L) main gasoline engine and auxiliary electric motors. The electric motors are powered by a battery array which is charged by regenerative braking during deceleration, which reduces exhaust emissions and extends fuel mileage.

The new Sport Hatchback model with futuristic styling was unveiled in August 2005 for the European market only. This model featured from launch a 1.3 L I-DSI and a 1.8 L i-VTEC rated at 83 PS (81 hp/61 kW) and 140 PS (138 hp/103 kW) respectively, with 177 and 207 km/h (110 and 129 mph) top speeds and 14.2 and 8.6 sec 0-100 km/h sprint. The Sport Hatchback is also available with a 2.2 L I-CTDI Diesel engine from the Accord, F-RV and CRV, rated at 140 PS (138 hp/103 kW) and is capable of 205 km/h (127 mph) and accelerating from 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds.

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 Civic is just called "Civic" while the sedan model is called "Civic Ferio" - however with the current release of the new Civic in Japan only in sedan form, this naming convention has stopped. In Europe and the United States, "Civic" generically refers to any of the coupe, sedan or hatchback models, though in Europe the coupe is branded the "Civic Coupe". A five-door station wagon model called the Civic Shuttle (also Civic Pro in Japan) was available from the early to late 1980s until the early 1990s (this brand name would later be revived for the mid-1990s Honda Shuttle people carrier, known in some markets as the Honda Odyssey).

Other models have been built off the Civic platform, including the Ballade, the CR-X, Quint, Concerto, Domani, CR-X Del Sol, and the Integra. Also, at various times, the Civic or Civic-derived models have been sold by marques other than Honda — for example, Rover sold the 200, 400 and 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, based on the first Honda Ballade. The Honda Domani, an upscale model based on the Civic, was sold as the Isuzu Gemini in Japan (1992-2000), and confusingly the 5-door Domani was sold as the Honda Civic (along with the "real" EK Civics) in Europe from 1995 to 2000. In Thailand, the Civic was available as the four-door Isuzu Vertex (1995-2000). The sixth-generation station wagon was sold as the Honda Orthia (Honda Partner) as the downmarket commercial variant. The seventh-generation minivan model is called the Honda Stream or the Honda Civic Stream. In Canada, the sixth and seventh generation Civics where mildly redesigned to create the Acura EL until the advent of the eight generation Civic, which was used to create the Acura CSX.

The three-door hatchback body style has been somewhat unpopular in the United States, but has achieved wide acceptance in Canada, as well as popularity in Japan and European markets, helping cement Honda's reputation as a maker of sporty compact models. Starting in 2002, the Civic three-door hatchback has been built exclusively at Honda's manufacturing plant in Swindon, 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-made cars designed with Japanese engineering, except for the US-built two-door coupe.

In North America, the Civic hatchback was dropped for 2006, mainly due to the upcoming arrival of the Honda Fit. The 2006 model year standard Civics for North America are manufactured in Alliston, Ontario, Canada and East Liberty, Ohio, while the Hybrid version is manufactured in Japan.

Historical development

An interesting engine development used in some 1975 to 1983 models as well as all carbureted models through 1987 was the CVCC system, where a small auxilary inlet valve allowed a rich fuel/air mixture into the cylinder near the spark plug, while the main charge was lean. This design could meet clean air emission standards without the power robbing emission control devices fitted to many cars of that time. This engine was a rare example of commercial development of a stratified charge engine.

Some current generation Civics use VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control), and are approaching the size and weight of the early Honda Accord models, which were initially introduced as a larger, upmarket alternative to the Civic in the mid 1970s.

Modifications and the enthusiast community

In many areas, the Civic is popular as a platform for modification and customization by an enthusiast community. Civics prior to the fifth and sixth generation had a high 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 1988-1991 series which continued on until the 2000 model update. 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 VTEC engine — commonly one of the B-series 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 centres 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.

Paradoxically, the North American 2006 Civic Si concept strongly indicated that the Civic line would see a return to sportiness and performance, while the European Civic has become a more family oriented automobile. This newest generation of the Civic Si offers a 197 hp (147 kW) K20Z3 powered engine, utilizing drive by wire throttle, electric power steering, and a balance shaft. Moreover, this new engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission with a helical-type limited slip differential. Finally, a reengineered MacPherson strut front, and multi-link rear suspension allows the 2006 Civic Si to achieve 0.90 G avg of lateral acceleration on the skidpad. However, the use of this McPherson strut layout in the European model is inappropriate for a sporty use, while the 1.8 L engine, while more powerful than most 1.6 L version from previous generations, lacks the peaky behavior of the high-revving VTEC engines from the VTi/Type-R versions.

2006

For 2006, Honda completely redesigned the 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, coupe, Coupe Si, and Hybrid models are available. A Sedan Si has been announced for either the 2007 or if delayed the 2008 model year (this would be the first Civic Si sedan). An Si convertible has also been anounced for 2008, which would be Hond's first entry-level convertible since the '70's 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 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.

The Coupes come standard with a chrome exhaust finish and a rear spoiler. They are typically a bit sportier than their Sedan counterparts and cost $200 cheaper at base MSRP. It should be noted that the EX model of both the Coupe and Sedan are actually a bit smaller, in terms of interior room (because of the sunroof, which takes up head-room), than their DX and LX counterparts. MSRP is $14,360(US) for the DX Manual Coupe to approximately $19K for the Si model.

A manual transmission is no longer offered for the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid and gains more power, plus a mileage boost to an EPA estimated 50 mpg city/highway.

The 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, 6-speed manual transmission, sport seats, and different styling. The engine is a 2.0-liter, DOHC four-cylinder design with Honda's i-VTEC variable valve timing system. It produces 197 hp (200 PS/147 kW), 57 more than the Civic sedan. A 350 Watt, seven speaker sound system is also included along with a helical limited slip differential, close ratio 6 speed gearbox, and unique Si cloth seats.

All Civics (including their trims) have unique covers/wheels specific to their car and all come in cloth with no leather option. Additionally they feature a new "two-tier" design that displaces all car readings in analog display. MPH, water temperature, and fuel is displaced at the top while the lower tier displaces the tachometer. The brightness on these displays can be adjusted. The Civic Si features a more reddish (and aggressive) two-tier display while the Hybrid features IMA Assist and Charge indicators on its display.

During the Civic Tour of the Black Eyed Peas(BEP), Honda is holding a contest for a BEP customized Honda Civic Hybrid. Included in this customized hybrid are leather seats, custom paint job featuring BEP-type graphics, custom installed 55SH Shure microphone, a $10,000 Alpine multimedia system that includes a DVD player, navigation, touch screen 7" widescreen display, 700 watt speaker system with 2 10" subwoofers powered by 2 V12 amps, two type-S speakers, XM Satellite radio, 18" Konig rims, Dunlop Direzza DZ101 tires, sportier Sprint suspensions that lowers the vehicle by 2", and a custom exhaust tip. The engine itself and other internal parts are identical to the Hybrid itself.

It is interesting to note that the BEP trim of the Honda Civic Hybrid comes with a public address system, a novel feature, but illegal in most United States jurisdictions for non-emergency vehicles. The total value of the car is presumably close to $37,000.

For the JDM and ASEAN markets, the new Civic has slight but noticeable styling differences from the American version. While the arcing line sweeping across the front fascia is retained, the main headlights dip away from the main arc for a more sporty appearance. The front bumper also has more vents with a steeper angle and sharper corners than the USDM Civic. Meanwhile, the tailights, which in the USDM Civic resemble those of an Audi A4, are more reminiscent of the Integra, with the main round brake lights dipping slightly down into the indicators. On the interior side, the JDM/ASEAN Civic will have contrasting two tone colour scheme. The three spoke steering wheel from the USDM Civic Si and the European hatchback is standard. Engines include a 1.8 litre SOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 140bhp at 6300rpm and a 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 155bhp at 6200 rpm, both are mated to either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic (with paddle shifting available on the 2.0L model) with drive by wire throttles. A hyrbid version is also available.

The European Civic is the most different in that it will be offered as 5-door and 3-door hatchbacks only. 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. Externally, the European model is the most aggressively styled, whle the sweeping front arc is maintained, a light 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 cap. For the 5-door models, the rear door is hidden away, with the door handles tucked away at the corners fo the rear windows. Inside, the Euro Civic follows the same split level theme, but with a slightly racier design with circular A/C vents and switchgear. There's also a start button reminiscent of the Honda S2000. The handbrake is in a more covnentional position behind the shift lever. All around there is a generous use of metallic trim. Engines include the 1.8 liter i-VTEC shared with the USDM and JDM models as well as a 2.2 litre i-CDTi turbodiesel. A 6-speed manual transmission is available across the range.

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 large 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 share the same 2.0 litre 197bhp i-VTEC engine as the USDM Civic Si. 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.It is unknown whether Honda will produce a Type-R for other markets.

Awards

The Civic was Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1980, as well as its 2006 Car of the Year. The Civic has been on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best list six times, in 1985, 1988 through 1991, and 1996. The Civic GX, a natural gas version of the vehicle was named Greenest Car of 2005 by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Honda claimed 5 of the top 10 Greenest car slots, 3 of which were models of the Civic. The Civic Si was named "Best New Sport Car" and the sedan was named "Best New Economy Car" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year awards. The Civic also won the North American Car of the Year and the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) Car of the Year awards for 2006.

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[Hola]

Machang!

Great Info bro!!! Thanks!!!!

[Pericles]

Did u just wholesale this from the wiki? Looks a lot like that...

[Bishu]

Worth info about civic bro…………

[xXx]

the great one has spoken

good stuff bro

moderators why not compile all these car history posts into one and post a link in the front page. it'll be quite usefull for everyone

[Elvis_Pil]

the great one has spoken

good stuff bro

moderators why not compile all these car history posts into one and post a link in the front page. it'll be quite usefull for everyone

Machan even though its good info it's still Wiki...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_civic

[xXx]

Machan even though its good info it's still Wiki...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_civic

to be honest machang didn't even read a single line. but i did recognised the pics from wiki. i still think it'll be usefull if all the history stuff are compiled together

[Elvis_Pil]

yep good info on the 2006 car as well.. it says it comes with a 3 stage 1.3l vtec engine version (must be the hatch) which is very interesting.. must research on the workings of a 3 stage on i-vtec..

Hey just noticed the 500 posts!!

[KLM]

Did u just wholesale this from the wiki? Looks a lot like that...

I was about to say "Hey dillongt, Google called. It wants all its info on Honda Civics back."

[sharkster]

moderators why not compile all these car history posts into one and post a link in the front page. it'll be quite usefull for everyone

do u mean merge the topics with all the facts n jus link the thread to the front page or jus compile everythng and display as a webpage? if its the latter it'd b nice if one of the members cud do it cos there's lots of info in the old forum too...

[xXx]

do u mean merge the topics with all the facts n jus link the thread to the front page or jus compile everythng and display as a webpage? if its the latter it'd b nice if one of the members cud do it cos there's lots of info in the old forum too...

web page is what i had in my mind initially but then since everyone's busy putting a link to old threads will be much easier isn’t it?

any volunteers for the web page???? volunteer will get an autolanka email addy for free

[dragster]

Dilan... good info man.... thanks for sharing it with us....

I had one of em first gen models coming in for the meet... but the guy didnt turn up.... maybe he couldnt find the place...

[Velocity]

Dilan... good info man.... thanks for sharing it with us....

I had one of em first gen models coming in for the meet... but the guy didnt turn up.... maybe he couldnt find the place...

damn that would have been nice. i have not sighted a single first lately,

by the way the 7 th gen has two versions with the new front light.