There are differences between each version of course, but they have a lot in common that's worth mentioning.
Honda is excited about its "Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body Structure," which is said to improve vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility and collision energy management. If this is really useful it could be the most important aspect of the new car, since the rules of physics decree that the larger vehicle in a crash is the safest place to be. So if Honda's come up with something that negates that reality even a little at least some of the time, it's a good thing.
There is also a long list of post-crash safety devices, mostly of the airbag kind, but also active hear restraints to cut down on neck injuries, and an anti-lock braking system with stability control built in. Good things all.
Other good things in all 2006 Civics include drive-by-wire throttle controls, a tilt-telescope steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo with CD changer.
Each model type has unique charms as well.
The Coupe and Sedan models that sometimes serve as appliances get an all-new 1.8-litre inline-four with sophisticated components that squeeze more distance and more performance out of every litre of fuel.
The key power numbers are 140 hp at 6,300 rpm and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm and estimated fuel economy numbers of 7.8/5.7 L/100km city/highway with the five-speed manual and 8.2/5.7 L/100km city/highway with optional five-speed automatic.
Befitting a model with sporty intent (and drivers who don't mind buzzy engines), the Si Coupe gets a 2-litre inline-four that puts out 197 hp at 7,800 rpm and 139 lb-ft of torque at 6,200 rpm through a six-speed manual shifter with a helical-type limited slip differential.
Si occupants will be able to enjoy the performance potential from deeply bolstered buckets with red fabric stitching and unique trim panels.
So that everyone will know the Si is quicker than a normal Civic, Honda will also apply a rear deck wing, aero cladding and prominent Si badging, along with 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inchers are optional) and 215/45 R17 87V all-season tires (Michelin Pilot Exalto 215/45 R17 91W summer tires are available).
The Hybrid Sedan gets a 1.3-litre inline-four that's good for 110 hp at 6,000 rpm and 123 lb-ft of torque from 1,000 to 2,500 rpm, supported at key moments by a 15-KW electric motor, all of which goes to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Honda is predicting the Hybrid will score 4.7/4.3L/100km (city/highway) on Canadian government tests, but of course real world fuel economy will not likely come anywhere near those figures.
Thanks to a lighter, more powerful and more efficient Integrated Motor Assist system, there's "greatly enhanced regeneration capability and electric-only operation.
The Hybrid sedan also gets two-tone seating surfaces (presumably in honor of the dual-mode power supply, and instruments on the dash that will let you watch the system switch around as it supplies or creates power.
Honda is excited about its "Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body Structure," which is said to improve vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility and collision energy management. If this is really useful it could be the most important aspect of the new car, since the rules of physics decree that the larger vehicle in a crash is the safest place to be. So if Honda's come up with something that negates that reality even a little at least some of the time, it's a good thing.
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| 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid (Photo: Honda) |
Other good things in all 2006 Civics include drive-by-wire throttle controls, a tilt-telescope steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo with CD changer.
Each model type has unique charms as well.
The Coupe and Sedan models that sometimes serve as appliances get an all-new 1.8-litre inline-four with sophisticated components that squeeze more distance and more performance out of every litre of fuel.
The key power numbers are 140 hp at 6,300 rpm and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm and estimated fuel economy numbers of 7.8/5.7 L/100km city/highway with the five-speed manual and 8.2/5.7 L/100km city/highway with optional five-speed automatic.
Befitting a model with sporty intent (and drivers who don't mind buzzy engines), the Si Coupe gets a 2-litre inline-four that puts out 197 hp at 7,800 rpm and 139 lb-ft of torque at 6,200 rpm through a six-speed manual shifter with a helical-type limited slip differential.
Si occupants will be able to enjoy the performance potential from deeply bolstered buckets with red fabric stitching and unique trim panels.
So that everyone will know the Si is quicker than a normal Civic, Honda will also apply a rear deck wing, aero cladding and prominent Si badging, along with 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inchers are optional) and 215/45 R17 87V all-season tires (Michelin Pilot Exalto 215/45 R17 91W summer tires are available).
 |
| 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid (Photo: Honda) |
Honda is predicting the Hybrid will score 4.7/4.3L/100km (city/highway) on Canadian government tests, but of course real world fuel economy will not likely come anywhere near those figures.
Thanks to a lighter, more powerful and more efficient Integrated Motor Assist system, there's "greatly enhanced regeneration capability and electric-only operation.
The Hybrid sedan also gets two-tone seating surfaces (presumably in honor of the dual-mode power supply, and instruments on the dash that will let you watch the system switch around as it supplies or creates power.