Honda Motor Southern Africa has announced a series of improvements and upgrades to its Civic range. The midlife update builds on the formula that has underpinned the Civic’s status by introducing a series of subtle enhancements to the exterior and interior of all four models in the line-up.
The choice of drivetrains remains unchanged, with Civic buyers still invited to choose between two four-cylinder engines: a refined, normally-aspirated 1.8-litre unit, and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol.
The Civic line-up also continues to encompass four models: the 1.8 Comfort and 1.8 Elegance, and the 1.5T Sport and 1.5T Executive. A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is standard across the range.
On the outside
For 2019, the front end receives a redesigned front grille, a bolder, three-dimensional bumper and new styling details, all designed to further emphasise the Civic’s unique fusion of sportiness and refinement.
At the rear, Civic customers will notice new chrome detailing designed to highlight the wide, low stance of the Honda, while chrome garnish has been added to the front of the 1.8 Comfort, as well as around the fog lamps of the 1.8 Elegance and 1.5T Executive models.
In profile, the shape remains as eye-catching as before, but new model-specific wheel designs have been introduced to add some extra eye candy.
The Civic 1.8 Comfort features double-spoke16-inch alloys in Shark Grey, while the 1.8 Elegance and 1.5T Executive are fitted with 17-inch wheels featuring scythe-shaped spokes in Dark Grey. In line with its overtly dynamic character, the 1.5T Sport gains 17-inch alloys finished in Berlina Black, augmented by a dark coating.
On the inside
The Civic’s interior combines high-quality materials with an ergonomically intuitive centre console. As before, the interior design features extensive use of soft-touch and accent materials. On an ergonomic level, it offers refined, user-friendly access to the various controls.
This includes the striking high-deck centre console encompassing key features such as the electric parking brake and brake hold function.
Low cabin noise and refined ride quality were hallmarks of the 10th generation Civic from the outset, thanks to comprehensive sound proofing, including underbody coverings and a noise insulation door system, according to Honda.
Technology
An extensive range of advanced technologies remains an integral part of the latest Civic in order to make driving safe and convenient, while also benefiting driver and passenger comfort. One of the features is the high-resolution, seven-inch LCD display that forms the centrepiece of the digital audio system.
The innovative system enables connection with numerous smartphone functions, including maps for ease of navigation operation. It’s compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on Elegance, Sport and Executive models, making this the most convenient and connected Civic ever.
The system is also compatible with various media formats, and can be operated by controls conveniently located on the multifunction steering wheel. The touchscreen buttons have been replaced by hard buttons for improved ease of use, while a convenient volume control knob has also been incorporated. Several other Civic firsts have also been carried over, including the Walk Away Auto Lock feature operated by the smart key system, which is standard on the Sport and Executive models.
The range-topping Civic Executive derivative continues to reinforce its premium status with a raft of additional safety features, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low Speed Following;
- Collision Mitigation Braking System;
- Lane Departure Warning;
- Lane Keeping Assist System;
- Road Departure Mitigation;
- Forward Collision Warning;
- Lane watch with blind spot camera.
Engines and outputs
The 2019 Honda Civic is still offered with a choice of two engines. The 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo produces 127kW of maximum power at 5 500r/min, along with 220Nm of maximum torque – the latter available in a broad range between 1 700 and 5 500r/min.
The naturally-aspirated 1.8-litre i-VTEC engine produces 104kW at 6 500r/min, allied to a torque peak of 174Nm at 4 300r/min.
Both engines feature Honda’s ECON mode, which optimises the engine and transmission for maximum fuel economy. Additionally, Eco Assist helps the driver achieve the most efficient driving style by means of a changing colour indication on the instrument cluster.
Model range and pricing
The recommended retail pricing of the four-model Honda Civic line-up is a follows:
- 1.8 Comfort CVT – R364 500
- 1.8 Elegance CVT – R408 500
- 1.5T Sport CVT – R474 700
- 1.5T Executive CVT – R507 600
The recommended retail pricing includes a five-year/200 000km warranty, a five-year/90 000km service plan, as well as three years of AA Roadside Assistance. Services are at 15 000km intervals for the 1.8 models, and 10 000km for the 1.5T variants.
