Following the reveal of the sedan version back in April, Honda is now getting ready to unleash the Civic hatchback and this official teaser reveals the fastback shape that will adorn the new five-door models, including the next Type R. For the latter, though, you will have to use your imagination to picture all the necessary spoilers.
The Civic hatchback will make its world debut on Thursday, June 24, but we’ll probably have to wait a bit longer to see the aforementioned performance version.
What do we know about the Type R so far? A Honda spokesperson revealed recently that the new performance hatch would remain a manual-only offering, despite the market’s shift towards dual-clutch and automatic gearboxes. Car and Driver recently reported that the new Type R would be “more powerful but less crazy”, likely powered by an up-rated version of the current 2,0-litre turbopetrol, which produces 228 kW.
The regular Civic hatchback models (which weren’t sold in SA in their most recent generation) will likely mirror the engine range announced in the new Civic sedan. These include a 1,5-litre turbopetrol that produces 134 kW as well as a 2,0-litre normally aspirated unit that’s good for 118 kW. Interestingly the new sedan is offered with CVT transmission only but it’s possible that Honda might offer a manual in the regular hatchback models given its sportier orientation.
The new-generation Honda Civic has a more sophisticated structure than before, with bending rigidity having been improved by 13 percent, and the structure also makes extensive use of lightweight materials such as aluminium. Honda says buyers can look forward to lower NVH levels as well as a better ride quality.
The interior has a minimalist design but doesn’t do away with the traditional buttons and knobs. In addition to wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, the vehicle is also now available with a high-end 12-speaker Bose sound system.
