Chinese automobile market is unique in so many ways, among which is the fact that certain vehicle versions no longer offered anywhere else in the world are specifically sold in China.
Space at the back seat of saloons counts as a plus point in China, so manufacturers including prestigious European brands like Audi & BMW develop models with longer wheelbase to be sold specifically in China. Manufacturers often offer the engines which are sold only in China with a certain vehicle, such as the Honda City with a 140hp R18a engine.
Earlier this year the 10th generation Civic was launched in China with 1.5 liter turbocharged engine producing 130 kW (174.26 hp) and 220 Nm of torque. It’s called as ‘220 Turbo’ in China probably because of the fact that the car develops 220 Nm of torque. The 1.5 liter Turbo Civic in China is mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT.
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Towards the end of this year, the 10th generation Civic range will see addition of a new entry-level model having 1.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 129hp and 200nm called as ‘180 Turbo’ in China. The reason why this car isn’t called as the ‘200 Turbo’ instead of 180, is unknown.
The Civic ‘180 Turbo’ will become the new base model in the Civic range for the Chinese market, positioned below the 220Turbo. Both cars will be produced in China as part of a joint venture between Honda and Dongfeng Motors.
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Being the base model, Civic 180 Turbo will lose out on some equipment. Exterior-wise, the LED headlamps are now halogen units instead, and the two-tone alloy wheels have been replaced with smaller, single-colored ones. A shot of the interior also reveals a simplified multi-function steering wheel that no longer has controls on its right side. The touch-screen infotainment unit appears to be omitted, and fabric now adorns the seats and various areas of the car. Also a manual gear lever can be seen in the pictures instead of a CVT gear selector.
The Civic 180 Turbo in China will likely be priced less, although it is yet unknown how many variants for the 1.0L model will be offered. Whether the 10th generation Civic with 1.0 liter engine will be offered in other markets of the world including Pakistan is still unknown, however it may ease out in taxation and registration costs due to a smaller displacement engine.
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
