The rear design looks most distinctive, unlike previous Civics that either appeared too staid to inspire comment or left the impression
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| The sedan's taillights are positively original, and shaped in such acomplicated yet pleasing form as to make describing them without thehelp of a photo near impossible. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
of pulling too heavily from one of Mercedes-Benz's sports models. Now, the sedan's taillights are positively original, and shaped in such a complicated yet pleasing form as to make describing them without the help of a photo near impossible. The Hybrid's wheels are also unique, and designed with minimal openings to enhance aerodynamics.
Inside, its surfaces are equally complex, but once again attractively laid out, especially in Hybrid trim. While all Civics get a unique dual binnacle instrument gauge package, which includes one set of electronic dials in the traditional location behind the steering wheel and the other cluster atop the dash, directly below the driver's line of sight when looking at the road ahead, allowing for quick referencing of primary controls without compromising safety, the Hybrid features more metal-like surfaces than its siblings, and combined with the already higher-than-average quality plastics found in every
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| All Civics get a unique dual binnacle instrument gauge package, whichincludes one set of electronic dials in the traditional location behindthe steering wheel and the other cluster atop the dash. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Civic it appears as technically advanced as its sophisticated drivetrain is technically advanced.
Yes, Honda has pulled no punches in reintroducing its top-selling HEV, equipping it with the most advanced hybrid drivetrain in its history. No longer will Toyota Prius and Ford Escape Hybrid fans be able to play the "full hybrid" royal flush against Honda's "mild hybrid" full house - full hybrid is now the common terminology for explaining a system that can drive on full electric power without internal combustion engine (ICE) assistance, rather than an "engine assist" system that merely helps the ICE along without ever taking over propulsion on its own (mild or partial hybrid) - as the 2006 Civic Hybrid can now silently roll away from a stoplight, just like its rivals. Just what this particular feat of engineering has ever done to reduce fuel economy or lower emissions has never been quantified, but it is mighty cool and prepares the way for fuel cell technology to take over from the ICE when an infrastructure delivering economically priced hydrogen is in place.
