Honda has unveiled the 11th generation Civic hatchback almost 2 months after the sedan version made its world debut in April. In addition to North American markets, the new Civic hatchback will be reaching Europe and Japanese domestic market as well.
Related: Official: 11th Gen Honda Civic Debuts
As seen with the leaked patent drawings, speculative renderings and spy images, the all-new Honda Civic hatchback is largely similar to its sedan sibling but with slight styling differences such as a hexagonal mesh grille up front instead of horizontal slatted one on the sedan. Towards the side the hatchback obviously differs from the sedan from C-pillars onward. The rear windscreen now becomes larger to improve rear visibility, while ditching the split design of the previous generation model. The rear gets full-width taillights that integrates the third brake light, whereas large twin trapezoidal tailpipes and a black rear diffuser rounds up the exterior highlights.
The new Honda Civic hatchback measures 4,530 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,815 mm tall makes it 30 mm longer and 5 mm lower than its predecessor, the wheelbase has also increased by 35 mm to 2,735 mm. Boot space is 452 liters, which is 26 liters less than before; but it can be expanded thanks to 60:40 split seats. Better still, the tailgate opening is now 40 mm wider making it easier to load items in.
The retro-inspired minimalistic interior is very much similar to the sedan having a floating 7- or 9-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a hexagonal metal mesh covering for the full-width air vents, premium soft-touch materials and tactile switchgear. New features include a power-adjustable front passenger seat, air ionizer, Qi wireless smartphone charging and a Bose sound system with 12 speakers.
Like sedan, the new Civic hatchback benefits from full suite of Honda Sensing driver assists, upgraded with a new Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system that incorporates smoother, more natural responses from the adaptive cruise control and lane centering assist. In Japan, the Civic is also offered with an optional Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) function that blocks off certain parts of the high beam to avoid dazzling other road users. Other new features for the Japanese version include front and rear pedal misapplication control and low-speed autonomous emergency braking.
The all new Honda Civic hatchback
Engine options vary depending on the market. In USA, the base engine is a 2.0L naturally-aspirated i-VTEC four-cylinder unit good for 158 hp and 187 Nm. Then there is a 1.5L VTEC turbocharged engine that has been upgraded to develop 180 hp and 240 Nm and will be available in Japan as well. Both engines comes paired to CVT gearbox as standard, but an optional 6-speed manual with increased shift rigidity, shorter throws and a smoother dual-mass flywheel for an even drive experience is also on offer.
Related: 11th Gen Honda Civic Pricing Announced
Honda has also confirmed that it will introduce a new e:HEV hybrid (to be made available in Europe) and a high-performance Type R version next year. The 11th gen Civic hatchback will go on sale from August this year.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
