03 April 2006-Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) announced today the launch of the all-new Civic taking spirited performance and fuel economy to new levels. Featuring a bold, one-motion form design and powered by the revolutionary i-VTEC engine, the hot new 8th generation Civic debuts in dealers nationwide beginning April 4, 2006.
Sporting improvements in all aspects of an automobile's value, the latest Civic is designed to give total satisfaction to its passengers as it provides speed and smooth driving feel with sensuous quality at a price that's not out of reach. Powered by the newly developed 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine that combines off-the-line acceleration equivalent to a 2.0-liter engine and achieves fuel economy similar with that of a 1.5-liter engine, the new Civic stays true to its heritage as it remains in the forefront of innovative ideas and technological advances.
"Honda's heart is best exemplified by the Civic. From its conception, the Civic has always been a benchmark shaping motoring industry and instituting world standards. Today, Honda introduces a new Civic to the Philippines-a new form, a new engine and exciting new features. The Civic reflects the leading technology of the times," said Arnel Doria, HCPI Deputy Head for Marketing.
Available in 1.8-liter SOHC i-VTEC and 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC variants, the 2006 Civic carries the newly developed intelligent VTEC or i-VTEC engine. Lighter, shorter and quieter, the i-VTEC engine technology provides high torque and high power at any speed depending on engine load rotation while improving emission levels.
Drive on the road to exhilaration as the 5AT variant lets the driver select "S" shifting with racing-style fingertip controls on the left and right sides of the steering wheel. The 3-spoke, tilt-adjustable steering wheel is oval-shaped with a horizontal diameter of 360 mm and a vertical diameter of 350 mm, for a sportier image and improved instrument panel visibility. The shift lever also employs a sporty, compact design. Located within easy reach is the emergency brake lever, which adopts a Z-shaped configuration for a major reduction in overall length while the organ-type accelerator pedal ensures a linear pedal feel.
Moreover, front strut suspension and Honda's double wishbone rear suspension makes for a solid and stable feeling of high-speed driving.
Sporting a wide stance and extended wheelbase for a more expansive interior, the new Civic follows the principle, "Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum" where its spacious interior provides driving pleasure and a relaxed feeling. The large front windshield thrusts forward at an accentuated angle which when combined with the angling of the glass area create a spacious visual feel for the driver. A welcome feature is the pair of wipers moving in opposite direction covering more windshield space, including a hydrophilic power door mirror with demister (for 2.0L variant) which prevents water droplets from forming.
There's also minimum movement of eyesight as the speedometer and other frequently checked displays are placed on the upper tier of the dashboard near the driver's line of sight while the tachometer and other gauges are placed on the lower tier.
Stylish seat cushions add to the luxurious interior while significantly contributing to vibration absorption. The driver's seat height may be adjusted manually for customized comfort (for 2.0L variant). The Civic is also equipped with 6:4-split rear seats which fold down easily with the pull of a lever located inside the trunk.
"Considered by many as a breakthrough car, the Civic fused intelligence and excitement setting a global benchmark with each new generation. To date, we are celebrating eight generations of innovation, advanced technology and unparalleled style-possibly making the Civic the only industry benchmark of the era," said Takashi Sekiguchi, HCPI's president and general manager.
Honda is known for creating vehicles that provide driving pleasure as well as care for the passengers' welfare. Driving protection confidence in the Civic is intensified as advanced active safeguards such as VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) for the 2.0L model and ABS (anti-lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) work in synergy to avoid driving hazards.
Passengers are also protected by a combination of sophisticated passive safety systems-including dual SRS airbags and pretensioner-equipped seatbelts.
Visit Honda Cars Kalookan now and feel sheer excitement as the Civic's rebirth raises all industry standards beyond what is expected
Article Source : http://www.hondakal.com/news_results.php?newsid=42