The sedan is no longer as popular as it used to be. This segment is less shining than the Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) or Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) which is currently on the rise. But that doesn’t mean being forgotten. Like Honda, which introduced the all-new Civic sedan, the latest model in the United States. A prototype form was shown last November. It is clear that the production version with not many adjustments in the design. But more importantly, it shows off a new philosophy, as well as improvements to the chassis, powertrain, and a variety of other technologies. All of that in an effort to maintain the title of the best-selling sedan in America for the last 48 years.
Changing the look of the new generation Civic is definitely not easy. Just look at the models now on sale in the United States. It still looks easy and has not been aged. However, the design language continues to change along with the company’s vision and mission. From this, we can see the many similarities between the newest lines. Especially the Accord, there are quite a few similarities to make it clear as the younger brother of the full-size sedan.
Unlike the 10th generation Civic, which looks busy, filled with lots of lines. Honda tries to fill the body of the all-new Civic sedan with more minimalist curves. Simplifies firm bends, creating a mature and mature character. Taking the basic philosophy of the successful 70s Civic era as Man Maximum / Machine Minimum.
It’s like the Accord. A thin and streamlined profile characterizes simplicity which actually increases the level of luxury. Similar to Mazda did through the Kodo design. Although the sporty element is reduced because the lines are simpler, it looks premium.
There are several things done to make that happen. First, step back the windshield pillar by 5 cm. As a result, the hood extends like the proportions of a classic sedan. Firm body lines remain but one is left. At first glance, it looks like the details of the City Hatchback RS. Then the sharp corners are not left in order but are connected to each other from front to back. So as to create a flow of design that is easily accepted by anyone’s sense of sight.
The flat impression is also obtained from the wider wheel tracks. This is also to get around the widened headlamp and fenders so that the streamlined concept is not lost. The profile flows uninterruptedly up to pillar C only. The impression of the fastback is still similar to the Accord. But the silhouette of a pure sedan remains thick when viewed frontally from the side.
Minimalist aura also infects the cabin. It is enough to take an outline pattern, then fill it with various ornaments. A 10.2-inch digital panel is plastered in front of the driver’s eyes, while a 7-inch touch screen monitor is a means of entertainment. Not classified as large, but an improvement over the previous model. If you like a large screen, there will be a 9-inch monitor option. Of course, it is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging.
Most surprisingly, the function of the AC setting knob returns to the rotary knob model. Likewise, the volume setting on the head unit. I don’t know the reason behind it, maybe it won’t be easy for consumers who are crazy about high-tech nuances.
The new design, simple and thin design is not just about pursuing aesthetics. There is a hidden purpose that can only be felt when behind the wheel. The low shoulder line is intended for improved visibility to the corner of the car. The windshield is a more retreating effect on the shorter dashboard size. The effect reduces glass reflections. The body is elongated and wide and has a roomy cabin for all passengers.
Honda deliberately designed the All-new Civic to be even stiffer. The method is to use iron and aluminum materials with increased rigidity by up to 8 percent. In order to achieve a more evocative and safer ride. The wheel track is 2.5 cm wide, as well as the wheelbase stretched 3.5 cm, which definitely affects the stability and smoothness.
Turning to the engine, nothing new was found. The American market is still powered by naturally aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder units with 158 hp and 187 Nm of torque. There is also a turbo version like in Asia with the same 1.5-liter capacity producing 180 hp and 240 Nm of torque. There is an increase of 6 hp and 20 Nm from the previous model. While the CVT companion gearbox for the two engines is tuned so that the gearshift character is similar to the transmission with conventional gear. The engine feeling is more like a sensation of pounding and engine brake.
The safety factor is also number one. The structure is designed to meet the prerequisites for future crash tests. Honda also introduced the first airbag designed to reduce brain injury by controlling head movements when the accident occurs. A donut-shaped air pocket expands on the side to protect the head.
The rest is embedded with Honda Sensing which is active as a sense of the risk of accidents. There has been an improvement in the form of a combination of a wide-angle camera combined with new software. The system is able to detect pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
The all-new Honda Civic Sedan pops off the Honda factory floor in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. Sales only started in the middle of this year, followed by a hatchback version a month later. Given that the Honda Civic is now a global model.
