The updated one Honda Civic is getting a tech upgrade and a new entry-level hybrid option in Australia, but at the expense of the current entry-level petrol option.
The updated model will arrive “soon,” without a launch time being given. The outgoing model is now gone.
Honda Australia calls the Civic the second model after the Accord with a 100 percent hybrid line-up. No, the Type R is not dead, Honda just counts it as a separate vehicle.
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The existing e:HEV LX will be joined by a new e:HEV L model, and both variants will feature the latest generation Honda Connect, with extended remote services and upgraded infotainment with built-in Google.
With the latter you can use built-in Google apps such as Google Assistant and Google Maps on the 9.0-inch touchscreen and download more applications via the Google Play Store.
Honda says the second generation of connected services will include a remote immobilizer and a digital key, which lets you use your smartphone as a key.
This is in addition to existing functions, such as the ability to remotely control the locks, air conditioning and lighting and to set speed and geofencing alerts.
The updated Civic features a new front bumper and grille, while there are new pearl finishes in Seabed Blue and Sonic Gray.
The latter is exclusive to the e:HEV LX. Both models are also available in Premium Crystal Red metallic and Platinum White pearlescent finishes.
Honda will continue to support the Civic with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five years of premium roadside assistance and five scheduled services capped at $199 each.
No powertrain changes are specified, which amounts to a 2.0-litre four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with two electric motors, a lithium-ion battery and an e-CVT – with a system output of 135 kW and 315 Nm.
The company hasn’t confirmed pricing for the updated Civic, but the e:HEV LX is currently priced at $55,000, while the dying VTi LX is priced at $47,200 drive-away.
It is also not specified which features the e:HEV L will lose in order to fall below the e:HEV LX in price.
The e:HEV LX currently offers even more equipment than the VTi LX, including a panoramic sunroof, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, heated steering wheel and leather upholstery.
In Japan, the updated Civic e:HEV range is also offered in two variants – e:HEV LX and e:HEV EX – with only the more expensive e:HEV EX featuring a panoramic sunroof.
The top-spec Civic also offers an active cornering feature for its LED headlights, electrically adjustable front seats and a wireless phone charger over the entry-level model.
The Japanese market Civic also received a new gray interior option with this update, while the autonomous emergency braking system can now detect cyclists and motorcyclists when turning right at an intersection.
Honda has also introduced a sportier Civic RS in Japan, offered exclusively with the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual transmission.
Not only does it have a sportier exterior, but also unique suspension tuning and larger front brake discs.
MORE: Everything Honda Civic
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