Honda Civic : Top 9 cars rating in side-, front- and rear-impact tests by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. (CNN)

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is an automobile manufactured by Honda. It was introduced in July 1972 as a two-door coupe, followed by a 3-door hatchback version that September. With the transverse engine placement of its 1169 cc engine and front wheel drive, like the British Mini, the car provided good interior space despite overall small dimensions.
Early models of the Civic were typically outfitted with a basic AM radio, rudimentary heater, foam cushioned plastic trim, two-speed wipers, and painted steel rims with a chromed wheel nut cap. The current Civic has become much more luxurious with satellite-linked navigation, a six-speed manual, power locks and power windows available. Still, many regard the Civic as representing a good value for the money, combining good performance, reliability and economy, as well as a very low rate of depreciation.
The Civic evolved from having a 1170 cc engine (1973) to having engines with larger capacities and more creature comforts (air conditioning, power windows, etc.) through the 1980s, 1990s and into the 2000s.

Honda Civic First generation (1973-1979)

The original 1973 Civic had a wheelbase under 87 inches and an overall length of 140 inches
Initially the Civic was sold with either a four-speed manual or a two speed "HondaMatic" model. Later models went to a five-speed manual and a full four-speed automatic transmission. Like the Mini, the transaxle was integrated with the engine unit.
Initally the car came in 2-door and 3-door hatchback forms, both using the same body profile. A longer wheelbase 4-door sedan became available in 1975, followed by a stationwagon and 5-door hatchback model.
A small facelift was given in 1978, which served until the car was replaced by a new model in late 1979.

Honda Civic Second generation (1979-1983)

The second generation Civic had a new, sleeker body and increased wheelbase to 88.6 inches for the hatchback and 91.3 inches for the wagon. The two-door sedan was no longer produced. All engines was now of the CVCC design ranging from 1335 cc giving 55 hp to 1488 cc giving 67 hp. The transmission was either a four-speed manual, a five-speed manual or a two-speed automatic. In 1981 a four door sedan was introduced and the two-speed automatic gearbox was replaced by a three speed. In 1982 it was slightly restyled with rectangular headlamps and black bumpers. In 1983 the sportier Civic S replaced the 1500GL.

Honda Civic Third generation (1983-1987)

For the third generation the wheelbase was increased by 5 inches to 96.5 inches. A new 12 valve (three valves per cylinder) 76 hp 1500 cc engine was introduced. The base hatchback still used the 1300 cc engine giving 60 hp. Supension was updated to independent rear suspension. The CRX was a Civic with a slightly different body. In 1985 the CRX Si was introduced. It came with a fuel-injected version of the 1500 cc engine giving 91 horsepower. In 1986 the Civic got flush-mounted headlights. Other news for the year was a four-speed automatic and an Si version of the Civic hatchback.

Honda Civic Fourth generation (1987-1991)

Again the wheelbase was increased to 98.4 inches. The body was designed with lower hood line and more glass giving less drag. The Civics also got a new family of engines. A 1500 cc 16-valve engine giving 92 hp was used in the DX hatchback/sedan, new LX sedan and the wagon. The base hatchback had a 70 hp version of the same engine. All engines were fuel injected. All wheels had double-wishbone suspension. In 1990 the EX trim was introduced.

Honda Civic Fifth generation (1992-1995)

The fifth generation had a more wedge shaped body and the wheelbase was increased to 101.3 inches for the two-door hatchback and 103.2 inches for the four-door sedan. The wagon was also dropped.

Honda Civic Sixth generation (1996-2000)

Beginning in 1997 [1], Honda produced the first iteration of Civic to receive the "Type-R" appellation (applied first to the Integra Type-R), with the EK9 chassis Civic Type-R. The EK9-generation Civic Type-R had a maximum output in the range of 189 PS JIS (185 hp/132 kW), increased over the more common 160 PS (158 hp/118 kW) B16A engine in the SiR/VTi models, and included various alterations to the chassis to improve handling and reduce weight (such as better welding of the frame, and removal of the radio and noise-suppressing materials). There were 6 other models. The CX, LX, HX, DX, EX, and the Si. The CX, DX, and LX all the had the same D16y7 motor that produced 106hp at 6200rpm. The HX model was equipped with the D18y5 and had VTEC-e and it produced 115hp at 6300rpm. The Ex had the D16y8 and had the real VTEC and was branded with 127hp at 6600rpm. The Si had the B16a2 in it and pushed 160hp. The CX was the lightest and did not have futures such as a sunroof which made it even lighter. In canada the ex was called the Si and the Si was called the SiR.

Honda Civic Seventh generation (2001-2005)

In 2001, Honda announced the release of the Civic Type-R for the EP chassis, a more sporty variant of the most recent model of Civic and successor to the EK9 Civic Type-R. Unlike the EK9 version, which was produced solely in Japan, the EP Civic Type-R is produced in the United Kingdom and exported to Japan. The EP Civic Type-R has a specific output of 200 PS (197 hp/147 kW) at 8000 rpm, a six-speed manual transmission, a reworked exterior with a bullet-like hatchback design, aeroform bumpers, spoiler, and 17 in wheels. The interior of the Type-R includes Recaro seats and a Momo steering wheel, and the model also includes Type-R-specific badging, a helical limited-slip differential, and has been reported to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 6.6 seconds (6.4 in facelifted model).

The hybrid version became available in 2003, which uses both a small (1.3 L) main gasoline engine and auxiliary electric motors. The electric motors are powered by a battery array which is charged by regenerative braking during deceleration, which reduces exhaust emissions and extends fuel mileage.
The new Sport Hatchback model with futuristic styling was unveiled in August 2005 for the European market only. This model featured from launch a 1.4 L I-DSI and a 1.8 L i-VTEC rated at 83 PS (81 hp/61 kW) and 140 PS (138 hp/103 kW) respectively, with 177 and 207 km/h (110 and 129 mph) top speeds and 14.2 and 8.6 sec 0-100 km/h sprint. The Sport Hatchback is also available with a 2.2 L I-CTDI Diesel engine from the Accord, Edix/FR-V and CR-V, rated at 140 PS (138 hp/103 kW) and is capable of 205 km/h (127 mph) and accelerating from 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds.

Honda Civic Eighth generation (2006-present)

For 2006, Honda completely redesigned the Civic giving it a more athletic, curvier look. All models (including the base model) come standard with ABS and side and curtain airbags. Additionally, the 2006 models acquired a ULEV-2 rating and boast a more powerful 1.8 liter engine than the 2005 counterparts, but still retain almost equal fuel economy. In the North American market, the sedan, coupé, coupé Si, and Hybrid models are available. A Sedan Si has been announced for the 2007 or 2008 model year (this would be the first Civic Si sedan). The Sedan and Coupe all come in 3 available trims (DX, LX, EX) while the Civic Si and Hybrid are sold "as is" with relatively few options (such as a navigation system, automatic day/night compass mirrors, and wheel locks).
The DX model is the base model that comes equipped with LATCH, immobilizer theft-deterrent system, power windows, daytime running lights (DRL), 15" wheels with covers, driver's seat height adjustment, and other features (All Canadian sold Civics have the 160 watt stereo system). The LX model adds a 160 watt 6-speaker stereo system, air conditioning, 16" wheels with covers (Alloy wheels in Canadian LX models), cruise control, MP3/audio jack (Coupe only), passenger side walk in (with memory) [Coupe only], floor mats, security system with remote entry and Canadian sold models (except for DX) include heated exterior mirrors. The EX model adds an optional voice-activated navigation system, a moonroof, 4 wheel disc brakes, 16" alloy wheels, 2 12-volt accessory outlets (instead of one), a 350 watt stereo system with 7 speakers (Coupe only, the Sedan EX comes with a 160 watt stereo system), exterior temperature indicator, rear cup holders with rear arm rest, and MP3/audio jack.
The Coupes come standard with a chrome exhaust finish and a rear spoiler. They are typically a bit sportier than their Sedan counterparts and cost $200 cheaper at base MSRP. It should be noted that the EX model of both the Coupe and Sedan are actually a bit smaller, in terms of interior room (because of the sunroof, which takes up head-room), than their DX and LX counterparts. MSRP is US$14,360 for the DX Manual Coupe to approximately $19K for the Si model.
A manual transmission is no longer offered for the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid and gains more power, plus a mileage boost to an EPA estimated 50 mpg city/highway.
The 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 2.0-liter, DOHC four-cylinder design with Honda's i-VTEC variable valve timing system. It produces 197 hp (200 PS/147 kW), 57 more than the Civic sedan. A 350 Watt, seven speaker sound system is also included along with a helical limited slip differential, close ratio 6 speed gearbox, and unique Si cloth seats.
All Civics (including their trims) have unique covers/wheels specific to their car and all come in cloth with no leather option. Additionally they feature a new "two-tier" design. MPH/KPH, water temperature, and fuel is 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.
During the Civic Tour of the Black Eyed Peas (BEP), Honda is holding a contest for a BEP customized Honda Civic Hybrid. Included in this customized hybrid are leather seats, custom paint job featuring BEP-type graphics, custom installed 55SH Shure microphone, a $10,000 Alpine multimedia system that includes a DVD player, navigation, touch screen 7" widescreen display, 700 watt speaker system with 2 10" subwoofers powered by 2 V12 amps, two type-S speakers, XM Satellite Radio, 18" Konig rims, Dunlop Direzza DZ101 tires, sportier Sprint suspensions that lowers the vehicle by 2", and a custom exhaust tip. The engine itself and other internal parts are identical to the Hybrid itself.
It is interesting to note that the BEP trim of the Honda Civic Hybrid comes with a public address system, a novel feature, but illegal in most United States jurisdictions for non-emergency vehicles. The total value of the car is presumably close to $37,000.
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 three trim levels. The LXS and EXS levels are equipped with the 1.8L i-VTEC SOHC engine generating 140 ps 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. The LX trim is a special model, based on the LXS, available only for handicapped individuals and has its power restricted to 125 ps and automatic transmission, in order to be elligible for special tax breaks. 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. It is speculated that the Si Sedan, similar to the USDM model will be produced locally in 2007.
For the JDM and ASEAN markets, the new Civic has slight but noticeable styling differences from the American version. However, the JDM-styling is available in Canada as the Acura CSX. 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/ASEAN 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 140 bhp at 6300 rpm and a 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 155 bhp at 6200 rpm, both are mated to either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic (with paddle shifting available on the 2.0L model) with drive by wire throttles. A hybrid version is also available.
The European Civic is the most different in that it will be offered as 5-door and 3-door hatchbacks only. 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. Externally, the European model is the most aggressively styled, while the sweeping front arc is maintained, while a perspex cover that looks very much like a light 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 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. Inside, the Euro Civic follows the same split level theme, but with a slightly racier design with circular A/C vents and switchgear. There's 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. Engines include the 1.8 liter i-VTEC shared with the USDM and JDM models as well as a 2.2 litre i-CDTi turbodiesel. A 6-speed manual transmission is available across the range. An automated manual transmission, known as I-SHIFT is available for the petrol engined models. Some other features of the European Civic include 'magic seats' in the rear, that not only lay flat to increase boot capaicity, but also allow the seat bench to lift up and lay flat againt 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 panoramic glass roof, and automatic headlights and windscreen 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.

Honda Civic 2007

Though much will not be changed for the 2007 model year, Honda plans to introduce the Honda Civic Si Sedan, based on the powertrain setup of the Coupe. Debuted at the Chicago Auto Show, the initial concept sported larger wheels (18" alloys) than its coupe brethren, along with 4-piston Brembo brakes and large cross drill brake rotors not found on the Coupe Si. However, most likely Honda may strip some of these features and just market it simply as a 4 door Si with the same features found on the Si Coupe. Although expected to be available for American buyers in the fall of 2006, as a 2007, the SI sedan will not be available to Honda's Canadian customers.

Honda Civic 2007 Type R

Honda recently debuted a Type R concept for the European Civic at the Geneva Motor Show, the Type R will use a 2.0 litre 198 bhp at 8000 rpm I4. The car itself will be lighter than the standard Civic as dictated by Honda Type R philosophy. Sophisticated handling aids such as traction control have also been eschewed for a purer, more soulful driving character. The Type R should go on sale in 2007 after the regular 3-door hatchback models hit the market. Recently, Honda has also unveiled a prototype 4-door Type R based on the JDM/ASEAN market Civic. The prototype is powered by an 2.0 litre iVTEC engine producing 220ps (217 hp) and comes with a specially tuned sports suspension that includes new Brembo brakes. This prototype has recently been announced 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.

Honda Civic International marketing

While the Civic is sold in largely the same form worldwide, differences in the name of the models exist between markets. In Japan, the hatchback Civic is just called "Civic" while the sedan model is called "Civic Ferio" - however with the current release of the new Civic in Japan only in sedan form, this naming convention has stopped. In Europe and the United States, "Civic" generically refers to any of the coupe, sedan or hatchback models, though in Europe the coupe is branded the "Civic Coupe". A five-door station wagon model called the Civic Shuttle (also Civic Pro in Japan) was available from the early to late 1980s until the early 1990s (this brand name would later be revived for the mid-1990s Honda Shuttle people carrier, known in some markets as the Honda Odyssey). In South Africa, the sedan range (the only model sold there until the 1996 launch of the sixth-generation sedan and hatch) was tagged "Ballade".
Other models have been built off the Civic platform, including the Ballade, the CR-X, Quint, Concerto, Domani, CR-X Del Sol, and the Integra. Also, at various times, the Civic or Civic-derived models have been sold by marques other than Honda — for example, Rover sold the 200, 400 and 45, each of which were Civic-based at some point (first 200s were the second generation Ballade; from 1990 the 200 and 400 were based on the Concerto; the 400 was the 1995 Domani), as was their predecessor, the Triumph Acclaim, based on the first Honda Ballade. The Honda Domani, an upscale model based on the Civic, was sold as the Isuzu Gemini in Japan (1992-2000), and confusingly the 5-door Domani was sold as the Honda Civic (along with the "real" EK Civics) in Europe from 1995 to 2000. In Thailand, the Civic was available as the four-door Isuzu Vertex (1995-2000). The sixth-generation station wagon was sold as the Honda Orthia (Honda Partner) as the downmarket commercial variant. The seventh-generation minivan model is called the Honda Stream or the Honda Civic Stream. In Canada, the sixth and seventh generation Civics where mildly redesigned to create the Acura EL until the advent of the eight generation Civic, which was used to create the Acura CSX.
The three-door hatchback body style has been somewhat unpopular in the United States, but has achieved wide acceptance in Canada, as well as popularity in Japan and European markets, helping cement Honda's reputation as a maker of sporty compact models. Starting in 2002, the Civic three-door hatchback has been built exclusively at Honda's manufacturing plant in Swindon, England - previously the five-door "Civic"/Domani and the Civic Aerodeck (based on the Japanese Orthia) were built in this plant for sale in Europe along with the Japanese EK series Civics. Accordingly, all instances of the current model (left or right hand drive, anywhere in the world) are British-made cars designed with Japanese engineering, except for the US-built two-door coupe and the Sedan version built in Brazil for the Latin American Market.
In North America, the Civic hatchback was dropped for 2006, mainly due to the upcoming arrival of the Honda Fit. The 2006 model year standard Civics for North America are manufactured in Alliston, Ontario, Canada (Sedans, Coupes and Si Coupes) and East Liberty, Ohio (Sedans), while the Hybrid version is manufactured in Japan.
In Asia, the oldest Honda Assembly/Manufacturing facility is near Lahore, Pakistan and the Civic is produced in large numbers since 1994. The 2006 Civic has been launched in the local market with a firm view of exporting this model to other countries by 2007. In India, the Civic sedan was launched in July 2006 for the first time.
In Brazil, although being considered for local manufacturing since the early 80's (it was illegal to import cars in Brazil from 1973 until 1990), the Civic wasn't available until 1992, via official importing. In 1997, production of the sixth-generation Civic Sedan started in the Indaiatuba factory. The only differences between the JDM model and the Brazilian model were a slightly higher ground clearance, due to the country's road conditions and adaptations to make the engine suitable to the Brazilian commercial gasoline, which contains about 25% ethanol. The seventh generation production started in 2001, displacing the Chevrolet Vectra from the top sales record for the mid-size sedan segment, however it lost that position to the Toyota Corolla the following year. In 2006, the eight generation was released and regained the sales leadership.

Honda Civic Historical development

An interesting engine development used in some 1975 to 1983 models as well as all carbureted models through 1987 was the CVCC system, where a small auxiliary inlet valve allowed a rich fuel/air mixture into the cylinder near the spark plug, while the main charge was lean. This design could meet clean air emission standards without the power robbing emission control devices fitted to many cars of that time. This engine was a rare example of commercial development of a stratified charge engine.
Some current generation Civics use VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control), and are approaching the size and weight of the early Honda Accord models, which were initially introduced as a larger, upmarket alternative to the Civic in the mid 1970s.

Honda Civic Safety

In Australia, 1982-2004 Civics were assessed in the Used Car Safety Ratings 2006.[2]
(1982-1983) - "worse than average" level of occupant protection
(1984-1987) - "significantly worse than average"
(1988-1991) - "worse than average"
(1992-2004) - "average"

Honda Civic Modifications and the enthusiast community

In many areas, the Civic is popular as a platform for modification and customization by an enthusiast community. Civics prior to the fifth and sixth generation had a high power-to-weight ratio and a higher hp-to-liter output compared to many of their direct competitors which allowed for naturally better acceleration, braking and handling given similar parts. As well, advanced four-wheel independent suspension inspired by Honda's racing research allowed class-leading handling in the 1988-1991 series which continued on until the 2000 model update. Also, because of parts interchangeability, many Civics which were originally equipped with lower-power engines can later be equipped with a newer Honda engine, or many other upgrades. The City Turbo engine is a good fit to the Civic engine bay in many models, and provides a significant increase in the power-to-weight ratio compared to the non-performance engines, thus boosting performance.
Also, many fourth, fifth, and sixth-generation Civics can be similarly upgraded by replacing their original economy-oriented engines with a DOHC VTEC engine — commonly one of the B-series engines such as a B16A, which was also original equipment in some performance models of the Civic.
The most recent models, while still competitive as tuner projects, have succumbed to added weight, reduced suspension technology and higher centres of gravity which has significantly reduced their appeal amongst passionate drivers. These changes made the car safer on the whole though, and helped the Civic sell better to the average consumer.
The North American 2006 Civic Si demonstrates that the Civic line has seen a return to sportiness and performance. This addition to the North American market more closely resembles the European and Japanese Civic Type-R than earlier Si models. The major difference between the 2007 Japanese Civic Type-R and the Civic Si is the lack of a multi-link rear suspension in the Type-R model; note that the models use completely different chassis. Though the models are different in style, hatchback vs. coupe, they both share the same K20Z3 engine. This newest generation of the Civic Si offers a 2.0L 197 hp (147 kW) K20Z3 powered engine, utilizing drive by wire throttle, electric power steering, and a balance shaft. Moreover, this new engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission with a helical-type limited slip differential. Finally, a reengineered MacPherson strut front, and multi-link rear suspension allows the 2006 Civic Si to achieve 0.90 G avg of lateral acceleration on the skidpad. A Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Suspension is an $800 option, and includes stiffer springs and different struts.

Honda Civic Awards

The Civic was Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1980, as well as its 2006 Car of the Year. The Civic has been on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best list six times, in 1985, 1988 through 1991, and 1996. The Civic GX, a natural gas version of the vehicle was named Greenest Car of 2005 by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Honda claimed 5 of the top 10 Greenest car slots, 3 of which were models of the Civic. The Civic Si was named "Best New Sport Car" and the sedan was named "Best New Economy Car" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year awards. The Civic also won the North American Car of the Year and the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) Car of the Year awards for 2006.

Believed to be the best Civic ever made, the sixth generation model won at least three awards since it was launched.
One of the 10 Best Cars of Car and Driver magazine
Automobile magazine's Automobile of the Year
Japanese Car of the Year

Honda Civic Racing

The Civic has been used in a wide variety of racing series, particularly in Japan. It is also used in touring car races in Europe and the United States. In the U.K the civic is used in the BTCC with synchro motorsport, and in endurance series such as barwell motorsport and cartek motorsport. In 2002 Honda entered the BTCC with a works effort to win the title in the new civic type r. In Japan many endurance series teams also use the civic. In 2002 Jas motorsport entered the ETCC with a super-2000 spec civic.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org