Honda’s Thai-built Civic sedan arrives
BY HAITHAM RAZAGUI | 3rd Jul 2012
Base VTi variants, available with five-speed manual or automatic transmissions, have been reintroduced, while the mid-spec VTi-L has become auto-only and a new VTi-LN variant with satellite-navigation has been added.
Entry to the Civic range now starts $500 lower at $20,490 (or $22,990 driveaway) for the VTi, with a $2300 premium for the automatic transmission.
Meanwhile, the price of an automatic VTi-L rises $700 to $23,990 and top-spec Sport variants are now priced $3000 higher at $30,990.
Standard equipment on the VTi includes Bluetooth audio and telephone connectivity, MP3-compatible four-speaker CD audio system with USB and auxiliary inputs, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, keyless entry and 15-inch steel wheels.
Moving up to the VTi-L brings automatic headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels and a chrome gear shifter, while the VTi-LN adds satellite-navigation, rain-sensing wipers, proximity key entry, front fog lights and chrome doorhandles.
A partial return for the extra $3000 on Thai-built Sport variants comes in the shape of black leather upholstery.
As before, the Sport gets an engine upgrade to a 114kW/190Nm 2.0-litre petrol unit, while the VTi, VTi-L and VTi-LN make do with a 104kW/174Nm 1.8-litre petrol powerplant.
The Sport also gains a sunroof, paddle shifters for the automatic transmission, 17-inch alloy wheels and door mirrors with integrated turn indicators.
Hybrid variants remain unchanged.
Civic sedan was awarded a maximum five-star safety rating by ANCAP and comes standard with six airbags, ESC, ABS brakes, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Australia has taken around 180,000 of the 20 million Honda Civics sold worldwide since the nameplate was first launched in 1972 on the Japanese market.
| 2012 Honda Civic sedan pricing (plus on-road costs): | |
| VTi | $20,490 |
| VTi (a) | $22,790 |
| VTi-L (a) | $23,990 |
| VTi-LN (a) | $26,990 |
| Sport (a) | $30,990 |
