The all-new 2012 Honda Civic represents the ninth generation of one of the company's most popular and globally recognized products. Having earned a reputation for being a fun-to-drive compact that is simultaneously fuel efficient, sporty, stylish and durable, the Honda Civic has become a beloved and relied-upon member of the worldwide transportation family. Cumulatively, the Civic has reached 8.8 million customers in the United States through 2010 since its launch as a 1973 model.
Each generation of Honda Civic has improved with a specific development theme in mind. The 2012 Civic embraces the fundamental concept of a "futuristic and distinctive compact," a direction that introduces new values that reach ahead of present-day needs and elevates the experience that Honda Civic represents. Major strides include improvements to refinement throughout, increased fuel economy on all models, the further addition of interactive technologies for personalization and convenience, along with enhancements to performance, ride and interior packaging.
Honda Civic Model Lineup
The automotive landscape has rapidly evolved in the last decade with increased interest in fuel economy, low emissions and overall affordability. All of these traits are among the Civic's strongest advantages. The new 2012 Civic lineup further embraces these concepts with six different variants that span from ultra efficient to high performance, with specific models designed to better meet individual needs and preferences. For 2012, a highly affordable and highly efficient Honda Civic HF has been added to the lineup. The aero-enhanced Civic HF achieves an estimated highway fuel economy rating of 41 miles per gallon, two more mpg than the regular Civic Sedan, and the highest highway fuel economy rating in America for any gasoline-only compact sedan equipped with an automatic transmission.
The 2012 Honda Civic model lineup is comprised of:
- Civic Sedan (Civic DX, Civic LX, Civic EX and Civic EX-L)
- Civic Coupe (Civic DX, Civic LX, Civic EX and Civic EX-L)
- High-efficiency and value-oriented Civic HF (new)
- High-performance Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe
- Ultra-efficient Civic Hybrid (with new Lithium-Ion batteries)
- Ultra-clean Civic Natural Gas, previously known as Civic GX (available at qualified dealers nationwide)
The Foundation of Civic
Beneath the aerodynamic skin of every 2012 Civic is Honda's commitment to its foundational pillars of safety, fun-to-drive performance, style, comfort, convenience, durability, quality and refinement. The end result is a vehicle that's not only a smart decision when new, but can also provide long-term joy of ownership unique to this class of vehicle.
Safety - Advanced safety systems include Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure for frontal collision energy management and vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility, and a long list of standard safety equipment including two-row side curtain airbags, dual-stage, multiple-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, driver's and front passenger's side airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist, and a new Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering system that helps the driver steer in the ideal direction to mitigate oversteer or understeer situations. Internal crash test information indicates that the new Honda Civic should achieve top marks in both the federal government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program and the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) designation as a "TOP SAFETY PICK."
Fun to Drive - Every Honda Civic model is designed to be fun to drive, with a MacPherson strut front suspension, a multi-link rear suspension, and front and rear stabilizer bars. Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) improves steering response at low speeds while rewarding the driver with outstanding feel at higher speeds. In addition, with EPS there is no parasitic power loss to the engine as is common with a traditional hydraulically boosted steering system - which benefits both power output and fuel economy. Standard 15-inch diameter wheels with all-season tires, 16-inch wheels on Civic EX and Civic EX-L models, and 17-inch wheels on Civic Si models (with performance-oriented summer tires available) provide a satisfying blend of ride comfort and all-weather grip. The Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe further expand the driving fun with a new, larger displacement (201 horsepower) engine and specially tuned suspension.
Distinctive, Aerodynamic Styling - As a new interpretation of the Honda Civic's iconic "one-motion" mono-form shape, the 2012 Civic is designed to convey an even more substantial, high-energy appearance. The exterior styling of both Civic Sedan and Coupe models showcases the clean-yet-powerful body lines with sleekly angled windshields, wide stances and pronounced character lines along the profile. The look of the Civic Coupe conveys an aggressive attitude with a more angular front fascia, mesh grille and a tapered rear roofline that flows smoothly into the trunk. Hidden aerodynamic features such as flat-bottom unit-body construction, precisely placed aero strakes, and other features work together to help the Honda Civic achieve excellent fuel-economy.
Comfort, Convenience and Personalization - Crisp, smart and driver focused, the new Civic's 5-passenger interior is a careful blend of form and function, with an advanced instrument layout that is unique in its class. A "smart interface" approach divides the interior into different areas, with key instrument displays located above the steering wheel. Secondary information is located lower in the area, while a third area to the driver's right groups controls that are not essential to driving. New for 2012, the intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) on all models (except Civic DX) provides a 5-inch color monitor for the display of vehicle information and audio information including album artwork (if available). Along with customizable vehicle settings, the i-MID includes the ability to upload personal wallpaper backgrounds. The Civic can be further personalized for driving with Eco Assist on all models (except Civic Si), the first time this feature has been included on any non-hybrid Honda model in America. The performance-oriented Civic Si exclusively features a new Sequential Rev-limit Indicator and a Power Monitor screen that can be displayed on the new i-MID.
Durability, Quality and Reliability - For many customers the Durability, Quality and Reliability (DQR) of the Honda Civic is what keeps them returning year after year. These fine qualities - and the resale or trade-in value they engender for the Civic - become a powerful purchase incentive. Virtually every major study of vehicle residual value has shown that the Honda Civic typically has one of the highest residual values in the industry. As an end result, a high residual or resale value makes the Civic's true cost of ownership less than many lower-priced competitors.
Powertrain
Honda has long been known for its world-class engine technology and a continuous process of innovation and improvement. At the core of Honda's powertrain engineering is the ongoing pursuit of greater performance, enhanced fuel economy and low emissions. The 2012 Civic model range embodies Honda's ongoing effort to offer a wide range of powertrain choices including gasoline, hybrid and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) that offer unique solutions for different buyers.
An advanced 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine is standard in the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe and Civic HF, with a choice of a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission (automatic only for Civic EX-L Coupe, Civic EX and EX-L Sedans, and Civic HF). A variant of the same 1.8-liter engine develops 110 horsepower in the compressed natural gas (CNG) powered Honda Civic Natural Gas, which comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The performance-oriented Si model has a 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine, matched with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. And finally, the Civic Hybrid is powered by an ultra-efficient 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Integrated Motor Assist producing 110-horsepower. This is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, Civic HF and Civic Natural Gas Powertrain
The Honda Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, Civic HF and Civic Natural Gas benefit from an updated and refined version of the 1.8-liter I-4 engine that powered the previous generation Civic. The new engine has extensive changes that reduce friction, improve emissions performance and increase fuel economy.
The engine is a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder design with 16 valves, i-VTEC, and a dual-stage intake manifold. In the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe and Civic HF, the engine produces 140 horsepower at 6300 rpm, and 128 lb-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm. In the Civic Sedan and Coupe, the 1.8-liter engine has an estimated EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 28/39 miles per gallon when equipped with automatic transmission.
Honda Civic Si Powertrain
The 2012 Civic Si is powered by a new 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that is the largest and most powerful of any Civic introduced in the United States. The dual overhead cam (DOHC) engine is an all-aluminum design that uses four valves per cylinder (16 valves total), a high-performance version of the i-VTEC system and a specially tuned high-volume intake manifold. The Civic Si produces 201 horsepower - up four horsepower from the 2.0-liter engine it replaces. The i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system, new friction-reducing technologies and extensive weight control measures helps the Civic Si deliver exhilarating acceleration, improved fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.
The new larger displacement engine in the Civic Si delivers peak power at a more accessible 7000 rpm compared to the previous Si engine's 7800 rpm power peak. The engine's increased displacement results in a substantial 22-percent increase in peak torque. The new 170 lb-ft rating occurs at just 4400 rpm, 1700 rpm lower than the previous engine's 139 lb-ft at 6100 rpm. Even with its increase in displacement, horsepower and torque, the 2012 Civic Si has an estimated EPA city rating of 22 mpg (up 1 mpg compared to the 2011 Civic Si) and increases highway fuel economy with a rating of 31 mpg (up 2 mpg compared to the 2011 Civic Si). In addition, the Civic Si engine meets strict Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-2) emissions standards.
The Honda Civic Si is exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter. Designed to be compact and lightweight, the 6-speed has also been engineered to provide quick and precise shift action. The Civic Si also includes a clutch with a torsion mechanism that enhances refinement in terms of engagement and feel.
Honda Civic Hybrid Powertrain
The newest-generation Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system fitted to the Civic Hybrid uses a gasoline engine as the primary source of power while an electric motor provides additional power and electricity regeneration capability. The new IMA system consists of a larger 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine connected to a larger, more powerful electric motor and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A new Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack is used to capture and store electricity for the upgraded 23-horsepower electric motor. The new Lithium-Ion battery is more powerful, lighter and more compact than the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery it replaces.
Together, the gasoline engine and electric motor team to produce 110 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque at 1000-3500 rpm. Compared to the previous generation Civic Hybrid, the new Civic Hybrid has the same peak horsepower, but achieves it at 500 fewer rpm. The new Hybrid has gained 4 lb-ft of torque, and it is spread over a wider rpm range (between 1000 rpm to 3500 rpm) for improved performance during normal city driving.
During acceleration, the engine or the engine and electric motor propel the vehicle. During sustained cruising, the gasoline engine and/or the electric motor can individually propel the vehicle. During braking, the gasoline engine deactivates and the electric motor acts as generator to replenish the Li-Ion battery pack. When the vehicle is at a stop, the engine can enter an idle-stop mode to conserve fuel and reduce emissions - and the engine remains off until the brake pedal is released.
Compared to the previous Honda Civic Hybrid, the fifth-generation Honda IMA powertrain provides improved acceleration at highway speeds, while simultaneously delivering a combined city/highway EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 44 mpg - an increase of 3 mpg from the previous model.
Body
The new 2012 Honda Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe are the most aerodynamically and aggressively styled models in the model's history - and also the most functional and versatile in how most Civic customers like to use their cars. As in past years, both 5-passenger sedan and 5-passenger coupe body styles are available. The sedan design is sophisticated and efficient, while the coupe is more dramatic and exciting. Both are highly aerodynamic, including a sleek windshield angle with narrow A-pillars (and thinner C-pillars in the Coupe) for excellent outward visibility, numerous under-vehicle aerodynamic aids, and even low rolling-resistance tires on all models except Civic Si.
Apart from the headlights, hood and front fenders, no visible exterior body panels, lights, glass, grille or bumpers are shared between the Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe. Differences between models include aggressive front grille, front and rear fascias and other elements for the Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan, and extensive aerodynamic aids for the high fuel economy Civic HF. However beneath the skin, the underlying chassis construction is the same between the Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe, except that at 105.1 inches, the wheelbase of the Civic Sedan is two inches longer than that of the Civic Coupe.
The Civic Sedan Design
Though roomier inside than previous models, the 2012 Civic Sedan adds a sophisticated flair while retaining the Coupe's dramatic styling character. Its four doors provide improved utility, with excellent ingress and egress for all passengers. In back, the trunk lid gracefully meets the rear window and seamlessly ties in with the overall styling of the car. Standard are 15-inch diameter steel wheels with full wheel covers, 15-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic HF, 16-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic EX and Civic EX-L models, and 17-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic Si.
Civic Coupe Design
Everything about Honda Civic Coupe says this is a driver's car, with the short, wide front fascia generating an aggressive overall look. Adding to the Civic's distinctly sporty and dynamic flavor are wide, angular headlights, a bold grille, and fog lamp openings in the lower fascia. A wedge design continues along the Civic Coupe body side, with the hood, windshield and cabin all forming decisive character lines that create a strong sense of motion. The high rear deck further reinforces the Coupe's dynamic wedge styling, while a functional rear lip spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels on Civic EX and Civic EX-L models (17-inch wheels on the Civic Si) add to its clear sporting intentions.
Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is a pioneering Honda unit-body construction technology. Introduced to Civic in the 2006 model, it increases the body's ability to disperse crash energy in a frontal collision and is anticipated to help deliver top safety ratings.
Rigid Unit-Body Construction and Energy-Absorbing Crush Zones
The Civic's aerodynamic unit-body structure plays a strong role in helping both the coupe and sedan achieve their expected high fuel-economy and projected top safety ratings, but it also contributes to a smooth, quiet ride and a fun-to-drive character. A rigid body allows for noise and other disturbances to be more efficiently isolated by bushings and other dampers throughout the vehicle.
Increased Use of High-Strength Steel
Both the Honda Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe feature a rigid and lightweight unit-body design made possible by increased use of high-strength steel. The 2012 Civic Sedan now uses 55 percent high-strength steel, compared to 50 percent in the previous generation. This contributes to a 7-percent reduction in body weight compared to 2011 Civic Sedan. Although the body structure is now lighter, static and dynamic rigidity are 10 percent better.
In addition, more slender A-pillars (also constructed of high-strength steel) provide a greater field of view without compromising body strength. Along with a new side mirror shape, the thinner A-pillars also help minimize wind noise at highway speeds.
Aerodynamic Enhancements
The 2012 Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe are just as aerodynamically efficient as their appearance suggests, resulting in improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, improved handling at higher speeds and lower levels of interior noise. The improvements are the result of extensive modeling and testing conducted during the design process. Examples:
- A guide under the front bumper directs the flow of air into the engine compartment for cooling.
- Lightweight plastic parts under the engine bay, the fuel tank and parts of the rear underbody enhance airflow.
- Front spoiler and strakes ahead of the front and rear tires help direct air flow around the tires and wheel wells.
- A new flat under-floor significantly improves aerodynamic efficiency by helping air to move over, around and under the vehicle - resulting in a significant 3.4-percent lower coefficient of drag as compared to the 2011 Civic.
- Low-drag side mirrors reduce wind noise by minimizing turbulence (Civic EX and Civic EX-L models also include heated side mirrors).
Multi-Reflector Halogen Headlights
All 2012 Honda Civic models are equipped with multi-reflector halogen headlights with an auto-off feature (Auto On/Off on EX-L, Hybrid and Si) for confident nighttime driving, along with a dynamic and dramatic appearance. The auto-off feature automatically turns off the headlights when the key is removed from the vehicle. Inboard mounted halogen high beams offer further nighttime driving confidence with a crisp, bright and focused light beam. The halogen high beams serve double-duty as the daytime running lights (DRL) by operating at a lower voltage. All Civic models include a headlights-on reminder.
LED Brake Lights on Civic Hybrid
The 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid's taillight system features attention-grabbing LED illumination for the brake lights and soft glowing surface lighting for the taillights. The sculpted, 3-dimensional look of the units adds a distinctive and technical styling element to the rear view of the Civic. Additionally, LED lighting uses less power and longer service life compared to traditional tungsten light bulbs, which is consistent with the vehicle's emphasis on efficiency.
Power Windows
All 2012 Honda Civic models (except for Civic DX) feature power windows with auto-reverse. All trim levels (except the Civic DX) also feature an auto up/down driver's window for added convenience.
One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature
Civic EX, Civic EX-L and Civic Si models have one-touch power moonroof actuation with tilt feature that will open or close with one touch of the switch. The moonroof's thin construction allows for maximum headroom and improved comfort. Also included is a sliding sunshade that automatically opens with the moonroof, and the shade can be closed to block sunlight. An auto-reverse feature is built into the moonroof operation.
Security System with Remote Entry
Remote entry and remote trunk entry systems are now standard on all 2012 Civic models except for DX. Using a wave key with integrated remote buttons, all doors can be locked with one touch of the LOCK button. Pressing UNLOCK once unlocks the driver's door, while pressing it twice unlocks all doors. The trunk can also be unlocked by pressing a separate trunk button. The system has an operating range of up to 50 feet.
