Pricing announced for new Honda Civic Hybrid

• A VTEC-controlled cylinder idling system that shuts down up to three of the four cylinders under deceleration for reduced engine friction and improved recharging of the battery pack.
• A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for smooth, stepless shifting and maximum efficiency which also features a "creeping aid" system to minimize the car from rolling backwards from a stop on steep hills.
• New i-DSI lean burn combustion technology uses two spark plugs per cylinder for a thorough burn of the fuel-air mixture for optimum fuel economy and power.
• Automatic "idle stop" feature turns off the gasoline engine during complete stops for reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions, the engine restarts instantaneously when the bake pedal is release.
• An improved, ultra-thin DC brushless motor delivers the world's highest output density for an electric motor and achieves 30 percent more torque than the previous model (in the Honda Insight) without any increase in size.
• New Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) combines the Power Control Unit (PCU) and the battery pack, which results in a 42-percent reduction in volume (compared to the Honda Insight's IPU) for improved packaging flexibility and reduced weight.

While technologically advanced, the Civic Hybrid is also equipped with a host of standard features to provide a comfortable, enjoyable driving experience. Such standard features include: air conditioning with automatic climate control, four-wheel anti lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, AM/FM stereo with CD player, remote keyless entry system, power door locks and power windows, heated power mirrors, alloy wheels and electric power steering.The 2003 Honda Civic Sedan Hybrid will go on sale in May at Honda dealerships across Canada.