By Nick Syn

HONDA HAS FINALLY unveiled the version of the new Civic that will be officially imported here. This eighth-generation model features far more conventional looks than the radically-styled European version, and is a virtual carbon copy of the Civic Hybrid concept (as previewed last issue).

Design-wise, the front appears to adopt aspects of both the Accord sedan and the Odyssey Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV).

Honda calls this a ‘one-motion form’, and a distinctive feature of this styling theme is an acutely raked windscreen, with a bolder grille and aggressive-looking headlamps completing the look. Smooth, unadorned flanks give the car a sense of weight and the rear styling noticeably echoes the sporty Integra coupe.

The new car is, predictably, larger than the current model, and Honda has also worked to make it 35 percent stiffer. A more rigid body pays big dividends in terms of dynamic ability. Honda’s engineers have therefore taken advantage of the stronger body by making significant changes to the body structure and suspension symmetry, which should contribute to better handling.

Unlike the exterior, the interior architecture does echo the European version’s quite closely. The instruments are arranged in multiple tiers, which Honda says allows critical information to be displayed in an optimal fashion. Honda also claims that an increase in body width and resculpted front seat backs ensure a more spacious rear cabin.

Two versions will be available here. The first has an all-new 1.8-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine that develops 140bhp, while the range-topping model gets the proven 2.0-litre unit that currently sees service in the Accord and Stream MPV. Both engines will come mated to a new, five-speed automatic gearbox.

There will no longer be a 1.6-litre option, as that variant would overlap too closely with the facelifted City. This means that the Civic will make an exit from the 1.6-litre sedan market, which makes up the bulk of local car sales.

Prices and exact specifications have yet to be set. Kah Motor, the local Honda distributor, expects to officially launch the new Civic here in December.