Hybrid by Honda
Honda’s IMA hybrid technology utilizes a 1.3-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder gas engine as its root powerplant. The IMA self-sufficient electrical integrated motor assist unit contributes to a collective output of 110 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque.
The bi-power flows through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) before finding its way to the car’s front wheels. Under certain conditions, the IMA unit can propel the car while the gas engine shuts down and saves fuel.
This setup does not permit electric-only starts and is quite limited in its application compared to some other hybrid designs. The gas engine also shuts down when the vehicle is stationary.
Behind the wheel
The driver’s seat is firm yet comfy and supportive. It is height adjustable, and can be tailored to provide a comfortable driving position behind the Civic’s exceptionally broad front windscreen.
Some adaptation may be required to become conversant with the instrument panel. The big dial facing the driver is a tachometer. The speedometer is digitally displayed above and forward of the lower gauge cluster. Weird but effective.
Although a manual-mode is not part of the CVT arrangement, the floor shifter supplies two gear-down positions to enable engine braking and quicker power-up when necessary.
Under way
The Civic Hybrid is not a “house on fire” when it comes to acceleration. Yes, you pull ticket-worthy numbers in reasonable order but that’s about it. Highway passing requires some extra planning if a big rig is the object to be overtaken.
Despite a slight performance deficit to the conventionally powered Civic, the hybrid version is quite delightful to drive. It’s tremendously nimble while providing a comfortable ride. Its structural integrity contributes to an overall sense of solidity further emphasized by a quiet cabin, marred only slightly by road noise.
Due to their regenerative charging function, the brakes feel a little too sensitive for my clodhoppers but I imagine that more time behind the wheel would sort that out.
Standard equipment includes plenty of occupant protection
Honda is to be commended for including as standard equipment, front airbags, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags in the Civic Hybrid, but it doesn’t stop there. Their Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) program and traction control are also standard fare.
Other standard installs include antilock brakes, cruise control, power windows and locks. All in all, the Civic Hybrid is nicely equipped for an entry-level high-miler.
Wrap it up please
Perhaps not powered by the latest or greatest in hybrid technology, the 2009 Civic Hybrid is still a technologically sophisticated compact sedan that delivers well refined driving manners and plenty of comfort.
Thanks to a cash price of only $25,245, the 2009 Civic Hybrid is a high value choice among entry-level hybrids.
photo:Rob Rothwell
Honda’s IMA hybrid technology utilizes a 1.3-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder gas engine as its root powerplant. The IMA self-sufficient electrical integrated motor assist unit contributes to a collective output of 110 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque.
The bi-power flows through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) before finding its way to the car’s front wheels. Under certain conditions, the IMA unit can propel the car while the gas engine shuts down and saves fuel.
This setup does not permit electric-only starts and is quite limited in its application compared to some other hybrid designs. The gas engine also shuts down when the vehicle is stationary.
Behind the wheel
The driver’s seat is firm yet comfy and supportive. It is height adjustable, and can be tailored to provide a comfortable driving position behind the Civic’s exceptionally broad front windscreen.
Some adaptation may be required to become conversant with the instrument panel. The big dial facing the driver is a tachometer. The speedometer is digitally displayed above and forward of the lower gauge cluster. Weird but effective.
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| Some adaptation may be required to become conversant with the instrument panel. |
Although a manual-mode is not part of the CVT arrangement, the floor shifter supplies two gear-down positions to enable engine braking and quicker power-up when necessary.
Under way
The Civic Hybrid is not a “house on fire” when it comes to acceleration. Yes, you pull ticket-worthy numbers in reasonable order but that’s about it. Highway passing requires some extra planning if a big rig is the object to be overtaken.
Despite a slight performance deficit to the conventionally powered Civic, the hybrid version is quite delightful to drive. It’s tremendously nimble while providing a comfortable ride. Its structural integrity contributes to an overall sense of solidity further emphasized by a quiet cabin, marred only slightly by road noise.
Due to their regenerative charging function, the brakes feel a little too sensitive for my clodhoppers but I imagine that more time behind the wheel would sort that out.
Standard equipment includes plenty of occupant protection
Honda is to be commended for including as standard equipment, front airbags, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags in the Civic Hybrid, but it doesn’t stop there. Their Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) program and traction control are also standard fare.
Other standard installs include antilock brakes, cruise control, power windows and locks. All in all, the Civic Hybrid is nicely equipped for an entry-level high-miler.
Wrap it up please
Perhaps not powered by the latest or greatest in hybrid technology, the 2009 Civic Hybrid is still a technologically sophisticated compact sedan that delivers well refined driving manners and plenty of comfort.
Thanks to a cash price of only $25,245, the 2009 Civic Hybrid is a high value choice among entry-level hybrids.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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