Face-off: The old vs the all-new Honda Civic

Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) recently launched the 10th generation all-new Civic. Reworked from the ground up, we find out how this compact sedan fairs against its predecessor.

The all-new Civic is powered by 2 engines. The 1st option is the same 1.8L SOHC i-VTEC engine found in the previous model producing 141 hp and 174 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the 2.0L engine has been replaced with a new 1.5L DOHC VTEC turbo with Earth Dreams Technology. Although the displacement is smaller, it can churn out 173 hp and 220 Nm of torque which is 18 horses and 30 Nm of torque more than the outgoing Civic. The engines are now mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

The all-new compact sedan sports a more chiselled hood, bigger fog lamps, and sharper LED headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRLs). These features combined with the all-new Civic's grille and lower ground clearance (17 mm lower) makes it look a lot more aggressive than the old model.

A lot has changed with its shape starting with the coupe-like body lines and redesigned c-shaped LED tail lights. The rear bumper is made more stylish with honeycomb vents and reflectors.

Inside, the gauge cluster is now compact compared to the multiple displays available in the previous Civic. The old Civic also had a single in-dash head unit and manual air conditioning for the entry-level variant. The all-new Civic, however, has a 7-inch Advanced Display Audio touchscreen and automatic climate control as standard for both variants. The RS Turbo, on the other hand, will come equipped with a navigation system..

Legroom and wiggle space is more generous in the all-new Civic given that it’s 44 mm wider, 108 mm longer, and has a wheelbase that’s 30mm longer than old Civic.

The all-new Civic is priced at P1,088,000 for the 1.8E which is P20,000 less than the old model. Meanwhile, the RS Turbo has a sticker price of P1,398,000, P110,000 more compared to the old 2.0L EL variant.

Overall, the all-new Honda Civic is a big departure from the model it replaces. The powerful turbo engine will appeal to buyers who want a fun driving experience. Meanwhile, its spacious interior, automatic climate control, and new Advanced Display Audio system provides its passengers with a comfortable, enjoyable ride.

It will come in 6 different colors: Cosmic Blue Metallic, Midnight Burgundy Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, White Orchid Pearl, Rallye Red (RS Turbo only), Modern Steel Metallic (1.8E only).