Next-gen Honda Civic leaked ahead of official debut

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda unveiled the prototype version of the eleventh-generation Civic sedan back in November, featuring a new grown-up face and sporty lines. However, it was a prototype, which means there would be changes although small ones, as it heads into production. And, we will get to know those changes when it will be officially unveiled within the next few months. 

Well, we do not need to wait that long as the leaked images of the production version of the upcoming Honda Civic are now making the rounds on the internet. The leaked photos were published on CivicXI.com and show a Chinese-spec model in the same design seen on the prototype form but with some toned-down styling elements comprising smaller alloys and fewer adornments.

The leaked version boasts a longer bonnet, smoother headlamps, and more traditional Honda ‘face’ with a small grille and large lower air intakes. The rear end gets Euro-inspired LED tail lights, shark-fin antenna, duck-tail boot spoiler, and integrated exhaust pipes.

For the interior, we still have prototype images only, which showcase a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment unit and climate controls set up similar to the Accord sedan. There is also a digital instrument cluster and a new steering wheel with slim thinner three and nine o' spokes for driver assistance. The large centre console includes space for cup holders, gear lever, and electronic parking brake. 

Talking about the mechanical setup, no concrete information is out there. Honda has just made a statement that the new model will have better fuel efficiency and more power. By this, we can expect that four-popper engines will be carried over, including a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol mill on the mainstream.

As for safety, the 2022 Honda Civic will get upgraded Honda Sensing safety and driver assistance systems along with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure. The automaker has also promised "advances in Civic’s driving refinement, ride quality, and sporty handling.”

Honda has planned to shift the production of the next-gen Civic to North America after the closing of the car’s current home at the Swindon factory in the UK.

Also read: Honda City RS e:HEV is now available in Malaysia; check all the details here