By Steve & Tamami Laser
After months of speculation, spy photos, and educated guesses, Honda has finally unveiled the all-new Civic Hatchback. While the launch is still months away, we also offer a preview of customization parts and accessories planned for Japan market models, courtesy of Honda Access and its Modulo brand.
The initial lineup for Japan is said to feature turbocharged gas engine models. Yet Honda Motor Co. confirmed that it plans to expand the Civic Hatchback range in Japan, during the 2022 calendar year, with new e:HEV 2-motor Hybrid and Type R models. (The photos in this story show an accessorized EX model.)
Civic has been a tremendous success story for Honda. Since its original launch way back in 1972, the automaker has sold more than 27 million units in some 170 countries. With the 11th generation Civic Sedan already on sale, the excitement will continues when the new Hatch reaches the market in the autumn.
Honda says that the exterior design team strived to create a beautiful car with excellent frontal visibility by designing the vehicle with coupe-like and flowing proportions. Thin LED headlights and a honeycomb grille are adopted for a sporty look.
In a separate release, Honda Access said it plans to offer a variety of genuine accessories for the new Civic Hatch in Japan, including a front lower skirt, tailgate spoiler, side mirror covers, and Modulo 18-inch alloy wheels.
For the interior, the development team strived to create a cabin space which enables the occupants to enjoy “exhilarating and pleasant mobility experiences.” The team pursued the tactile quality of switches and the spatial design, which is said to resonate with the users’ sensibilities.
Meanwhile, the Honda Access accessories list also includes a side step garnish, center console box and drink holder illumination, and a cool Civic logo pattern projector.
The initial lineup for Japan includes Civic Hatchback LX and EX models, powered by a 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo 4-cylinder engine, with a choice of 6-speed manual, or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the latter featuring three drive mode settings.
A roster of high-tech goodies includes Honda Connect with available in-vehicle Wi-Fi, BOSE® audio, and a suite of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive features, such as Traffic Jam Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control, Sign Recognition, Adaptive Driving Beam, and Lane Keeping Assist.
Note: Pre-production Civic models and accessories for the Japan market shown in this story, including features, specifications, launch timing, availability, and future models, is subject to change without notice.
New sources and photos courtesy of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and Honda Access Co., Ltd.
Story (commentary) © 2021 CarNichiWa.com