2007 Honda Civic Hybrid

Driving and safety

The new Honda Civic Hybrid chassis delivers more agile handling and refined ride comfort thanks to re-engineered suspension geometry and a longer wheelbase, compared with the current model. Unlike the 5-door Civic, it also features multi-link double wishbone rear suspension.

At the driving end, the MacPherson strut suspension features a higher caster angle and inversely wound springs for straight line stability along with improved toe-control dynamics for sharp and responsive steering. Changes to steering angles, bushings, material rigidity, and spring and shock tuning result in excellent linear suspension movement at the upper limit of vehicle dynamics for better tyre adhesion and flatter cornering. To improve ride comfort, the compliance angle on the lower control arm has been optimised to make the ride less harsh.

The multi-link double wishbone rear suspension benefits from a new design that facilitates a longer damper stroke and improved positioning of the damper itself. The additional rebound stroke allows the vehicle to soak up bumps and harsh road surfaces quietly and with ease. The damper is mounted closer to the wheel for a more favourable lever ratio (the relationship between the suspension movement and the distance that the damper actually travels). The more direct relationship means the forces acting on the shock do not become magnified and the intended tuning provides maximum benefit throughout a wider range of suspension travel.

These changes combined with sports-type spring and damper tuning greatly increase the overall sporty feel of the car.

 Regenerative Braking

For the first time on a Honda Hybrid, intelligent brake technology is employed in a new regenerative braking system.

A brake pedal sensor detects the driver’s braking force and reaction time and then calculates the correct amount of hydraulic braking and regenerative braking required to slow or stop the vehicle. The regenerative braking comes from the electric motor/generator, which helps slow the car down. This assistance cuts down the workload for the hydraulic brakes, thus extending the life of the brakes and their components.

At the same time, the Hybrid’s electric motor recovers the energy used during deceleration, and uses it to charge the car’s high voltage battery. We told you this car is efficient!
 

Safety

All the cars within the Civic range, including the Civic Hybrid, will be among the safest cars in the class. All models are equipped with ABS and, for optimum performance, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) to achieve maximum braking performance and stability. It also features, across the range, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) designed to assist the driver in maintaining control during cornering, acceleration and sudden manoeuvres by applying braking to the right or left hand wheels as necessary and managing the throttle and brake systems.

Active front seat headrests play a key role in protecting against whiplash injury in the event of an accident, and Honda is anticipating an excellent rating in the neck impact alleviation study conducted by the independent research institute, Thatcham.

To help reduce pedestrian injuries in the event of a collision, the Civic Hybrid’s bonnet and wing areas are designed to deform if contacted by the head of an adult or child pedestrian. Energy-absorbing collapsible bonnet supports, wiper arms and wing mounts are designed to allow substantial deformation in an impact.

Equipment

• SRS front airbags and side airbags
• Full length curtain airbag
• Active head restraints
• Seatbelt reminder
• Double pretensioners on front seatbelts
• ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution
• Brake Assist
• VSA
• ISOFIX fittings
• Radio/6 CD player
• Steering wheel mounted audio controls
• Six speakers
• Cruise control
• Electric power steering
• Electric windows, front and rear
• Power door locking / integrated in key
• Security alarm
• Immobiliser
• Auto air-conditioning
• Tilt/telescopic steering
• Multiplex Meter
• Passenger seatback pocket
• Leather upholstery
• Leather trimmed steering wheel
• Front fog lamps
• Heated power door mirror with incorporated indicators
• Retractable door mirrors
• Variable intermittent wipers
• 15 inch alloy wheels

• PRICE
• ES £16,300
• ES(with leather) £17,100

 

Powertrain