Eighth-generation Honda Civic

Infobox Automobile generation
name=Eighth generation
(FA/FG/FK/FN/FD)


wheelbase=104.3 in (264 cm) (coupe)
106.3 in (270 cm) (sedan)
103.7 in (263.5 cm) (hatchback)
length=174.8 in (441 cm) (2006-08 coupe)
Auto in|175.5|0 (2009- coupe)
176.7 in (447 cm) (sedan)
167.3 in (425 cm) (2006-08 hatchback)
Auto in|177.3|0 (2009- sedan)
Auto mm|4276|1 (2009- 3-door)
Auto mm|4245|1 (2009- 5-door)
width=68.9 in (172 cm) (coupe)
69.0 in (175 cm) (sedan)
69.3 in (176 cm) (2006-08 hatchback)
Auto mm|2046|1 (2009- hatchback)
height=53.5 in (134 cm) (2006-08 coupe)
56.5 in (142 cm) (sedan)
57.5 in (146 cm) (2006-08 hatchback)
Auto mm|1460|1 (2009- hatchback)
fuel_capacity= 50 L (13.2 US gal)
production=2006-present
layout=FF layout
assembly=Swindon, England
Suzuka, Japan
East Liberty, Ohio
Greensburg, Indiana
Alliston, Ontario, Canada
Lahore, Pakistan
Ping-Dong, Taiwan
Gebze, Turkey
Sumaré, Brasil
Greater Noida, India,
Ayutthaya, Thailand
body_style=2-door coupe (FG1/FG2)
3-door hatchback (FN1/FN2/FN3)
4-door sedan (FA1/FA3/FA4/FA5/FD1/FD2/FD3/FD4)
5-door hatchback (FK1/FK2/FK3)
engine=1.3 L "LDA-MF5" I4, IMA engine (Hybrid)
1.4 L "L13A7" I4 (European model only)
1.6 L "R16A1" I4
1.8 L "R18A1" I4
2.0 L "K20Z3" I4
2.0 L "K20Z2" I4
transmission=5-speed manual
6-speed manual
5-speed automatic
weight=2600 lb (1179 kg) (DX coupe)
related=Honda Element
Acura RSX
Honda Integra
Acura CSX
Honda CR-V

The eighth-generation of the Honda Civic was introduced in 2006. In many countries (USA, UK, New Zealand), all models (including the base model) come standard with power windows, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and side/curtain airbags (for a total of six airbags). Additionally, the 2006 models acquired ULEV-2 (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) certification and boast a more powerful 1.8 litre engine than the 2005 counterparts while retaining almost equal fuel economy.

In the North American market, the sedan, coupe, sedan Si (in Canada as the Acura CSX Type-S), coupe Si, and Hybrid models are available.cite web|url=http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/civic/2008/|title=2008 Honda Civic Review and Specs|publisher=JB car pages] An Si sedan began manufacture for the 2007 model year. The sedan and coupe are available in three trims (DX, LX, EX); however, the Civic Si and Hybrid come well equipped and are sold with relatively few options (such as a navigation system, automatic day/night compass mirrors, and wheel locks). The 2008 model brought some new features and an Si Sedan to Canada. 2009 models had a mid-generation refresh.

JDM, Asia (except Mainland China), Australia, South Africa and Russia

For the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market), South Korean, Taiwan, Indian, Pakistani, ASEAN, Middle Eastern, Australasian, Russian and South African markets, the new Civic has slight but noticeable styling differences from the American version. The JDM Civic is in fact a rebadged Acura; Honda Japan chose the Canadian-designed Acura CSX as the template for the JDM Civic [ [http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2008-acura-csx-navi-premium-review/ Acura CSX Review - The Truth About Cars ] ] [ [http://www.auto123.com/en/info/news/roadtest,view,Acura.spy?artid=56355&pg=1 2006 Acura CSX Road Test - Auto123.com - Canadian automotive network ] ] . While the arcing line sweeping across the front fascia is retained, the main headlights dip away from the main arc for a more sporty appearance. The front bumper also has more vents with a steeper angle and sharper corners than the USDM Civic. Meanwhile, the taillights, which in the USDM Civic resemble those of an Audi A4, are more reminiscent of the Integra, with the main round brake lights dipping slightly down into the indicators. On the interior side, the JDM/Asian Civic will have contrasting two tone colour scheme. The three-spoke steering wheel from the USDM Civic Si and the European hatchback is standard.

Engines include a 1.8 litre SOHC i-VTEC engine that produces convert|140|bhp|kW PS|0|abbr=on at 6300 rpm and a 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC(K20Z2) engine that produces convert|155|bhp|kW PS|0|abbr=on at 6200 rpm, both are mated to either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic (with paddle shifting available on the 2.0 L model) with drive by wire throttles. There is a 1.6 litre variant available only in Singapore and Egypt to enter the cheaper Cat. A (1,600 cc and below) vehicles in the vehicle numbers curbing system in Singapore, while maintaining a higher standard than the 1.3 L variant. It uses an SOHC i-VTEC engine, similar to that of the 1.8 litre variant. It produces convert|125|bhp|kW PS|0|abbr=on at 6200 rpm. For the hybrid, there is the 1.3 litre SOHC i-VTEC with the IMA (Integrated Motor Assist).

In Israel, South Africa, Australia and Republic of Ireland, both the 4-door JDM/Asian and 5-door European Civic models are available. In certain European countries, the four-door JDM Civic is available with the hybrid powertrain, being the only Civic sedan available in the UK. In other markets where sedans are more popular (such as Ireland and Finland), a range of sedans similar to the JDM models are available with the 1.8 L i-VTEC.

Europe

The European Civic (FK/FN chassis) has a different appearance and is offered primarily as 5-door and 3-door hatchbacks. It is produced in Swindon, UK.

Externally, the European model is the most aggressively styled; the sweeping front arc is maintained and a perspex cover resembling a lamp cluster replaces the grille. The rear tail lights are also similarly styled. Triangular accents are found front and back, with triangular fog-lamps in front and dual triangle exhaust tips at the back. The rear backglass is split into two levels, divided by a spoiler lip and the fuel filler cap is a race-inspired exposed metal effect cap. For the 5-door models, the rear door is hidden away, with the door handles tucked away at the corners of the rear windows, creating the illusion of a 2-door coupe.

Mechanically, the European Civic differs from the USDM and JDM variants in that it uses a simpler torsion beam suspension system for the rear wheels compared to the double-wishbone system in the USDM and JDM Civics. This change happened in this generation to allow the car to keep its large interior space, and actually reduce the length of the outgoing model Civic. Engines include a 1.4 litre i-DSI, the 1.8 litre i-VTEC shared with the USDM and JDM models as well as a 2.2 litre i-CTDi turbodiesel. A 6-speed manual transmission is available across the range. An automated manual transmission, known as I-SHIFT is available for models with 1.8 litre petrol engines. A 2.0 litre i-VTEC petrol Type-R high performance version is also available.

Inside, the European Civic follows the same split-level theme, but with circular A/C vents and switchgear. There is also a start button reminiscent of the Honda S2000. The handbrake is in a more conventional position behind the shift lever. All around there is a generous use of metallic trim. Some other features of the European Civic include "magic seats" in the rear, that not only lay flat to increase boot capacity, but also allow the seat bench to lift up and lay flat against the back rests to create a large loading area in the back behind the front seats. There is also a "hidden" storage compartment in the boot under the floor. The lid, which normally forms part of the boot floor, can be sunk down to a lower level to increase the load area, designed to allow the boot area accommodate larger or taller items. In the normal position, the storage area can be used to hide valuables away under the floor. Some models in the range feature things like electric folding mirrors, a digital speedometer display, a panoramic glass roof, and automatic headlights and windshield wipers. The range topping EX model also has DVD satellite navigation, and allows the car's entertainment system, climate control, navigation system and hands-free telephone system to be controlled all by voice commands.

In Israel, South Africa, Australia, Russia and Republic of Ireland, both the 4-door JDM/Asian and 5-door European Civic models are available. In certain European countries, the four-door JDM Civic is available with the hybrid powertrain, being the only Civic sedan available in the UK. In other markets where sedans are more popular (such as Ireland and Finland), a range of sedans similar to the JDM models are available with the 1.8 L i-VTEC.

In March 2008 Honda announced that it was recalling 79,000 eighth generation Civics due to a potential problem with faulty handbrakes. [cite web|title=Honda recalls 80,000 Civics|publisher=MotorTorque|url=http://motortorque.askaprice.com/news/auto-0803/honda-recalls-80000-civics.asp|accessdate=2008-03-25]

Facelift

Euro Civics (hatchback) will get a mild facelift for 2009. The main change is the front grille which is redesigned and now feautures with two open intakes.

North America

The 8th Generation Civic features a new "two-tier" instrument panel. Digital speedometer, coolant temperature, and fuel are displayed at the top, while the lower tier displays the tachometer. The brightness on these displays can be adjusted. The Civic Si changes the backlight from blue to red, while the Hybrid features IMA Assist and Charge indicators on its display.

The North American market Civic Si is a special trim level designed to offer a sportier experience than the standard Civic. It offers a more powerful engine, 6-speed manual transmission, sport seats, and different styling. The engine is a variant of the Honda K engine: a 2.0-liter, DOHC four-cylinder design with Honda's i-VTEC variable valve timing system. It produces 197 hp (197 PS/147 kW), 57 more than the Civic sedan.cite web|url=http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/civic/2008/|title=2008 Honda Civic Review and Specs|publisher=JB car pages] A 350 Watt, 7-speaker sound system, including subwoofer, is also included along with a helical limited-slip differential, close ratio 6-speed gearbox, upgraded brakes, 17" model-specific alloy wheels with available Michelin summer tires, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, aluminum racing pedals, fabric and special details on interior of doors and unique Si cloth seats finished with a tasteful tuner-style rear wing and red backlit gauges and ambient lighting. The Civic Si coupe debuted a few months after the initial launch of the 2006 models, with the Civic Si sedan following in 2007 (2008 in Canada). Beginning with the 2007 US Civic Si, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) has been offered.

In the fall of 2007, a slight variant on the standard Si sedan model, the Honda Civic Mugen Si sedan (2008), was introduced. While Mugen Motorsports is known for its performance heritage, the Mugen Si project is more concerned with cosmetic alterations to the standard Si. Honda has announced that a total of 1000 Mugen Si cars will be produced for the U.S. domestic market (USDM), [cite web|url=http://automobiles.honda.com/civic-si-sedan/mugen.aspx|title=Honda Civic MUGEN Si Sedan|publisher=Honda Worldwide|accessdate=2008-08-02] and lists the following as "exclusive standard features" of the car:
* Twin-Ring Motegi track-tuned suspension
* Aerodynamic body styling
* "Cat-back" sports exhaust system
* Highly aggressive spring and damper tuning
* Mugen –forged aluminum wheels measure 18 x 7.5 inches
* High-grip summer tires (215/40R18)
* Front spoiler and sports grille
* Side spoilers
* Rear diffuser
* Adjustable rear wing
* Improved exhaust that boosts horsepower to 202 (from the Si's 197)

All Civics (including their trims) have unique covers/wheels specific to their car and come standard with cloth seats. The rest of the Americas receive the North American-market Civic sedan (and coupe in some countries).

Trims and models

The base DX model is equipped with LATCH, immobilizer theft-deterrent system, power windows, daytime running lights (DRL), 15-inch wheels with covers, driver's seat height adjustment, and other features [cite web|url=http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/civic/2008/features/|title=2008 Honda Civic Features|publisher=JB car pages|accessdate=2008-08-02] American DX models do not have a standard audio system, while the Canadian equivalent has a 160 watt 4-speaker AM/FM/MP3 stereo system with CD player. Air conditioning is optional, which is known as DX-A in Canada.

The DX-VP (Value Package) sold in the United States adds air conditioning and the 160 watt 4-speaker AM/FM/MP3 stereo system with CD player.

The DX-G model sold in Canada adds air conditioning, cruise control, auxiliary input jack for portable audio players, power door locks, remote keyless entry and storage console armrest. It also include heated exterior mirrors. In 2008, it added 15-inch lightweight alloy wheels (same as the ones on the Civic Hybrid), and a lip spoiler.

The LX model adds a 160 watt 4-speaker AM/FM/MP3 stereo system with CD player (for the US only, all Canadian DX and LX models already include that system), 16-inch wheels with covers (alloy wheels in Canadian LX models), cruise control, MP3/audio jack, passenger side walk in with memory (coupe only), floor mats, and an anti-theft security system with remote entry. In 2008, the LX came with a lip spoiler.

Since 2009, the LX-S (sport) for the US market adds 16-inch alloy wheels, steering-wheel audio controls, sport seats, and black sport upholstery with silver stitching.

The LX-SR (sunroof) for the Canadian market, which was added in 2008, adds a power moonroof and 4-wheel disc brakes.

The EX model adds a moonroof, 4-wheel disc brakes, 16-inch alloy wheels, an additional 12-volt accessory outlet (for a total of two), a 350 watt stereo system with six speakers (coupe only, the sedan EX comes with a 160 watt stereo system), exterior temperature indicator, a foldable rear arm rest with integrated cupholders (sedan only), and an optional voice-activated navigation system. This trim was sold in Canada in the 2006/2007 model year, until it was replaced with the LX-SR and EX-L models.

The EX-L model adds a leather interior with heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, leather wrapped steering wheel, and a center console.

All coupes come standard with a rear lip-spoiler, while EX models have round chrome finish on the exhaust pipe. Coupes are intended to be sportier than their sedan counterparts and cost US$200 less in the US and CDN$200 more in Canada at base MSRP. Civic models with a moonroof have slightly less interior space due to reduced headroom. MSRP is US$14,810 (CD$18,881) for the DX manual coupe to approximately US$21,000 for the Si models.cite web|url=http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/civic/2008/|title=2008 Honda Civic Review and Specs|publisher=JB car pages]

The Honda Civic GX is designed run on CNG (Compressed Natural Gas). Due to the limitations of the CNG tanks, the 6-speaker stereo system is not installed.

Only a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is offered for the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid, which gains more power and a mileage boost to an EPA estimated convert|40|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on/convert|45|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on (city/highway). It achieves an AT-PZEV emission rating. The 1.3L L13A i-DSI engine (in EDM marketed as 1,4L engine) has been upgraded to achieve convert|93|hp|abbr=on, instead of convert|83|hp|abbr=on in earlier model. Accompanied by the electric engine with 15kW (20hp) which gives in total convert|110|hp|abbr=on for the Hybrid vehicle.cite web|url=http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/civic/2008/|title=2008 Honda Civic Review and Specs|publisher=JB car pages] Top speed is rated at 186km/h (116mph), CO₂ emission is 109g/km and the mass of the car is 2,875 lb - not much for a car equipped with IMA electric motor & Nickel-metal hybrid batteries (5,5Ah, 158V).

Both the Civic GX and Civic Hybrid have a similar trim level to the Civic LX, with some differences like 15-inch lightweight alloy wheels, and external mirror lights.

Facelift

For the 2009 model year, Civics sold in the United States and Canada received a facelift For the exterior, the front grille is resigned and the bar above the license plate is chromed. For the interior, the sedan's steering wheel is the same of the Coupe and Si. [ [http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/19/officially-official-honda-unveils-updated-2009-civic/ Officially Official: Honda unveils updated 2009 Civic] ]

US Civics also have two new trims, the DX Value Package (DX-VP), which adds air conditioning and audio system to DX; and the LX-S between the LX and EX, which adds alloy wheels and sporty trim on LX. Also, the EX and EX-L trims now come with Bluetooth HandsFreeLink on navigation models. USB audio interface is added to Civic EX, EX-L, Hybrid and Si models. Electronic stability control has been added to the EX-L and Hybrid, prior to that it was only on the Si.

Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Chile

For the Brazilian market, the eighth generation Civic is available only with a sedan body, and it is externally almost identical to the USDM version, having different bumpers and a higher ground clearance. It is available in two trim levels. The LXS and EXS levels are equipped with the 1.8 L i-VTEC SOHC engine generating convert|140|PS|kW|0|abbr=on at 6300 rpm. Both models might be equipped with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, but only the EXS has the paddle shift controls on the steering wheel. A special trim level for handicapped indivduals (LX), based on the LXS, was available in the first year but due to some changes in tax-break laws it's no longer available. It was equipped with automatic transmission and limited to convert|125|PS|kW|0|abbr=on. The 2006 Civic received the "Best Buy" award from "Quatro Rodas" magazine, the most prestigious car magazine in the country. The recommended prices for 2006 Civics in Brazil range from R$61,745.00 to 80,750.00, but due to high demand, new Civics are being sold for about 10% more than the recommended price. The Si sedan was announced at Salão do Automóvel in São Paulo, featuring a 2.0 L i-VTEC DOHC at 192 PS (143 kW) (195 PS (145 kW) when using premium unleaded gasoline). For the 2007 model, Honda introduced a new Flexible Fuel version, featuring the same 1.8 L engine, having 140 PS (103 kW) when running only on ethanol or 138 PS (101 kW) when running on gasoline.Argentina, Uruguay , Perú and Chile also receive Brazilian models. The price ranges from US$20,000 to $25,000 in Argentina; in Chile prices range from CLP$10.490.000 for the Brazilian built LXS model, to CLP$13.900.000 for the Japan built Civic Hybrid, to CLP$15.990.000 for the Brazil built four-door Civic Si sedan, and up to CLP$19.990.000 for the US-specs Civic Si coupe.

Mainland China

Dongfeng Honda Automobile, one of Honda's joint ventures in China, assembles and markets the Civic in China. Its exterior is the same as the North American-market Civic, except with amber tail turnlights and only the sedan model is available.

Type R

Honda debuted a Type R concept for the European Civic at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show; the Type R has a 2.0 litre 201 bhp (150 kW) at 7800 rpm I4. The suspension uses McPherson struts up front and a torsion beam in the back, while the car itself was initially thought to be lighter than the standard Civic as dictated by Honda Type R philosophy. Sophisticated handling aids such as traction control were initially thought to be completely eschewed for a purer, more soulful driving character. In the end, Honda did include a special version of their VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) that was specifically tuned to the car so as to better adhere to said philosophy. The Type R went on sale in the UK in February or March 2007, and is scheduled to reach Australia in July the same year. The European Civic Type R also went on sale in Brunei.

The JDM/ASIAN(ex. China) market 4-door Civic Type R went on sale on March 29, 2007. The Type R powered by an uprated K20A 2.0 litre iVTEC engine producing 225 PS (165 kW) at 8000 rpm (Available in Japan and Malaysia only), while the other JDM markets have 201 bhp (150 kW) at 7800 rpm and comes with a specially tuned sports suspension that includes new Brembo brakes. The prototype Type R was used as the official car of the Formula 1 2006 Japanese Grand Prix. This will mark the first time that Honda will produce two separate distinct Civic Type R models.

Mugen's Civic RR which is the Type R sedans uprated model is available in Japan. The Mugen RR sheds an additional 10kg (22 lbs) off the standard Civic Type R's weight, coming in at convert|2733|lb|abbr=on. In addition to the weight loss, the freer-breathing Mugen RR picks up convert|15|hp over the regular Type R. It's rated at convert|240|hp at 8,000 rpm and convert|160|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on at 7,000 rpm.

Complementing the added power and decreased weight are a new bodykit, upgraded brakes all around, a retuned suspension, new wheels and tires, and logo-emblazoned Recaro sport buckets. Availability is limited to 300 cars, all in the Milan Red finish shown, and the pricing in Japan has been set at ¥4,777,500 ($38,750 USD).

Mugen's official website has a video of the car lapping Japan's Tsukuba circuit in 1:06:68.

References