Take a look at the latest Honda Civic

The all-new, eleventh generation Honda Civic has gone on sale in South Africa. The newcomer, available in RS trim only, aims to build on the Civic’s reputation for engineering excellence, driving dynamics, quality construction and frugal fuel consumption. 

Sporty exterior design

Wearing the RS badge for the first time in South Africa, the Civic boasts a simple yet sporty design.

Highlights include a low beltline, long and low bonnet, pulled back A-pillars and large glass areas. Wide set LED headlights and taillights are connected by a sharp character line that runs from front to rear. Privacy glass and dual tail pipes complete the exterior.

In South Africa the Civic will only be available in RS guise. This package includes 18-inch black matte alloy wheels, gloss black side mirrors, shark fin antenna, outer door handles and rear boot spoiler.

Inside story

The design of the human centric cabin places a clear emphasis on detail as it offers both excellent visibility and efficient use of space. High-quality materials have been used extensively and a great deal of attention was paid to the feel and operation of the switchgear and controls. A metal honeycombe mesh panel stretches from door to door and creates a visual dividing line that splits the dashboard in two and incorporates concealed air vents.

The power adjustable and heated seats are covered in a leather/suede combination while a black headliner, sport pedals and a finely textured centre console complete the sporty yet sophisticated interior. Creature comforts include dual zone automatic air-conditioning with rear ventilation, an auto dimming rear view mirror, electric windows, automatic windscreen wipers and cruise control. 

Centrally mounted on the dashboard is Honda’s nine-inch Advanced HMI Display Audio system that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. A 10.2-inch interactive all-digital LCD instrument cluster enables the driver to control a variety of functions, including playlists, navigation, Honda Sensing functions and the answering of phone calls, all from the steering wheel. A Bose sound system featuring CenterPoint2, a Bose SurroundStage digital signal processor and 12-speakers is sure to keep passengers entertained.

Under the bonnet

The new Civic features a more rigid body structure, providing an improved base for dynamic excellence, such as improved handling and sharper steering.

Under the bonnet is Honda’s enhanced 1.5-litre VTEC turbocharged engine, offering 131kW at 6000rpm and 240Nm from 1700rpm. Mated to a CVT transmission, it offers improved power delivery, refinement and fuel efficiency. Despite its CVT layout more natural responsiveness is ensured through Honda’s Step Shifting programming, which simulates gear changes when accelerating.

Switching between the three drive modes is a simple task via a drive mode switch located on the centre console. Honda claim that the new Civic will use as little as 6.2 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

Safety comes standard

The Civic features a full suite of active and passive safety features as standard, these include Vehicle Stability Assist, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist, Brake Hold, a rear view camera and parking sensors. Front, side and curtain airbags as well as Isofix child seat mountings are standard.

Honda Sensing technology adds a variety of driver assistance features to the offering, including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, road departure mitigation, auto high beam and a lane watch camera.

Model range and pricing

The new Civic is only available as an RS derivative, which includes a comprehensive list of standard equipment and is priced at R669 000. This includes a five-year/200 000km warranty and a five-year/90 000km service plan.