A new Civic is in the works that’s bringing much more than just a new look to Honda’s best-selling vehicle. Here’s our first look at the next-gen Honda Civic.
Honda previews next-gen Civic with new hybrid system
During an event held for the media on Wednesday, Honda offered a look at some of the advanced new tech it plans to roll out over the next few years.
Although it just launched the current Civic Hybrid last year, Honda is already working on its replacement. Honda didn’t confirm or deny that the Civic was under the camouflage, but it was pretty evident.
The new Civic will ride on Honda’s next-gen hybrid (HEV) platform, designed for mid-size vehicles. Honda’s new hybrid system is nearly 200 lbs (90 kg) lighter and more flexible, which it said provides “excellent fuel economy” while also improving the driving experience.
According to Car and Driver, which drove the new Civic, the interior is also getting redesigned. Honda covered most of it, but you could still see what appeared to be a larger, at least 15″ infotainment screen at the center.
Honda is keeping most powertrain details a secret for now, but the new Civic appears to have an electrified drive unit similar to those found in the Accord and CR-V.
The company said the direct-drive motor and generator motor are smaller, more efficient, and free from rare-earth materials. Honda also said the battery, located under the rear seat, is all-new. It will be used for upcoming compact and mid-size vehicles, which Honda said will help reduce costs.
As for how it drives, Car and Driver said the new Honda Civic was quick off the line thanks to its direct-drive setup. However, the test track was too smooth to really judge the ride quality.
Like the new Honda Prelude, the Civic will feature S+ Shift, which simulates gear-shifting via paddles on the steering wheel.
The prototype had exhaust pipes, but they likely won’t make it to the production model. Honda plans to launch several next-gen hybrids on the new HEV platform, starting from 2027. The next-gen Honda Accord may even arrive before the Civic, debuting on the hybrid system.
Honda said it’s also developing a next-gen platform for large-size HEVs to meet the growing demand in North America.
Using a next-gen V6 engine with extended fuel-efficient range, Honda said it aims to improve fuel efficiency by 30% compared to its current ICE vehicles. Honda’s larger HEVs will likely go on sale closer to 2028.
Honda also showcased the Super-ONE Prototype during the event, its compact EV set to launch in Japan in 2026, followed by the UK and other global markets.
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