Top 3 things you need to know about the Honda Civic

By Farzana Chaumoo

The 10th generation Honda Civic is a car that brings bold, dynamic styling, along with trend-setting levels of sophistication and high-tech features. The Civic has continuously evolved to meet changing customer needs around the world. It has consistently set the bar for fuel efficiency, driving performance, build quality and owner satisfaction. Here are 3 things you might not have known about the latest Civic.

 

1. Chassis and suspension

Underpinning Honda's Civic is a lightweight, low-inertia and high-rigidity platform. Through the expanded use of ACE technology and high-tensile materials, significant improvements have been achieved in the dynamic performance, handling and safety of the latest model, while body weight was reduced by 22 kg.

Body-joining efficiency has greatly progressed through the adoption of an inner-frame structure. Overall, body rigidity has been improved by 2 -percent, some of which is achieved by focusing on the areas around the dashboard and the rear bulkhead to reduce inertia.

Turning to the chassis, the front MacPherson strut and rear multilink suspension systems have been newly designed, including the addition of a sub-frame to the rear. Linked to the increases in body and chassis rigidity, the new platform ensures substantial performance and safety improvements.

Premium-class steering technology adopts dual-pinion electric power steering (EPS) to create a linear and smooth feel with an integral sense of security. This is further enhanced with the adoption of a variable ratio that adjusts constantly according to the driver inputs and driving conditions – thereby giving the driver the perfect balance between high-speed stability and low-speed agility and responsiveness.

 

2. Technology

An extensive range of advanced technologies was introduced in the Civic to make driving not only easier and safer, but also increase driver and passenger comfort.

One of the most exciting features that were added in the latest model is the advanced interface provided by the high-resolution, 7-inch-WVGA LCD display that forms the centrepiece for the digital audio system. The innovative system enables connection with numerous smartphone functions, including maps for ease of Nav operation, making it the most convenient and connected Civic ever. The system is also compatible with various media formats, and can be operated by controls conveniently located on the multifunction steering wheel. In addition, a switch on the steering wheel can perform alphabet searches and switch off content. A separate switch for the volume, which is frequently used, has also been added.

The expansive IPS display can be viewed from both driver and passenger seats, and the air-conditioning can also be operated on the display panel.

Several other Civic firsts include a Walk Away Auto Lock operated by the smart key system, standard on the Sport and Executive models. The system automatically locks the car doors once the key is approximately 2.5 metres away from the vehicle, thus ensuring additional security and day-to-day convenience. Smart keyless entry is standard on 1.5-litre Turbo models.

 

3. Safety

Honda’s Agile Handling Assist (AHA) feature is integrated with the Civic’s EPS and vehicle control systems to facilitate driving enjoyment, as well as overall control and stability.

AHA anticipates a loss of control during cornering and helps to prevent it by continuously modulating brake and throttle inputs in small, imperceptible increments to assist overall driver control.

An additional safety net is provided by means of the Vehicle Stability Control, which is standard on all models, incorporating Hill Start Assist, along with ABS anti-lock brakes and electronic brake force distribution (EBD).

All models are equipped with dual front, side and curtain airbags, complemented with a reverse camera and rear parking sensors on all but the base model.

The range-topping Civic Executive derivative reinforces its premium status with a raft of additional advanced safety features, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Following (LSF)
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Lane watch with side-sensing cameras