No doubt invigorated by the hybrid proposal of the Toyota Corolla, its long-time rival, the Honda Civic will be offered from 2024 with a hybrid powertrain. A relaunch of a version that foundered in 2015 with the ninth generation of the popular compact.
For now, Honda is content to assert that this new version will feature the hybrid mechanics with two electric mills that we find in the Accord and CR-V, without providing power figures. Consisting of a 2.0L Atkinson cycle four-cylinder, it produces 204 hp in both cases, which is an indicator of how powerful this Civic hybrid could be. If this is the case, it could symbolically exceed the count of the turbocharged engine of the sports Si (200 hp). It will also be interesting to see where this version will be located in the compact price range.
No word there on estimated fuel consumption either. If we rely on the Accord which is capable of lowering fuel consumption to 5.3 L/100 km, the compact promises to be very frugal with an energy balance, in all likelihood, even more impressive thanks to its weight lowered and with less extended bodywork.
Honda wants 40% of Civics sold in North America to now be powered by hybrid mechanics. A certainly optimistic figure which highlights the hybridization strategy of its range which precedes its electrification phase. Note that this livery will be offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles, which will be assembled in Ontario and Indiana respectively.
Prelude to a Prelude
PHOTO KAZUHIRO NOGI, AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
The Honda Prelude Concept at the Tokyo Mobility Show
At the same time, the Japanese manufacturer took advantage of the Tokyo Mobility Show to unveil a style study that draws on nostalgia for its sporting golden age of the 1990s. The Prelude Concept foreshadows the return of this illustrious coupe which left its mark among the brand’s admirers.
This time, however, its fiery four-cylinder would give way to an entirely electric heart. The stylistic exercise also remains very interesting, attempting to preserve the traditional proportions of a combustion engine coupe to attract fans of the genre. Unsurprisingly, nothing was presented on the technical level or on the production schedule, but Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe sent a clear and somewhat jaw-dropping message during his speech: “Keep your high expectations for this model. »