Fans of the Civic hatchback will be delighted, because after several teasers, Honda has finally pulled the wraps off the tenth-generation Honda Civic hatchback, albeit being just a prototype. As these images suggest, this could in fact be the most radical Civic hatchback since the days of the bullet-shaped fifth generation Civic (EG) emerged some two decades ago.
The new model is also 30mm wider, 20mm lower and 130mm longer than the outgoing Civic hatchback, which, just like the ninth-generation sedan model, didn’t quite get the love it deserved.
Despite being just a prototype, the final production model should retain most of its aesthetics. That includes the wheels (although it may be a size or two smaller), suggesting at a much sportier Civic hatchback. It’s more practical too, because the longer wheelbase will actually give you better interior space.
The headlights are LED powered and come with integrated LED DRLs, although the green ring surrounding the fog lamps will not make to production.
The rear gets a pair of standout C-shaped LED tail lamps, and between them is a small spoiler. Two key issues have been rectified from the previous generation model – rear visibility and high stance when viewed from the rear.
In line with the industry’s path for downsized engines, the new Civic hatchback will debut with two all-new engines: a 127 hp 1.0-litre turbocharged VTEC engine and a 1.5-litre VTEC turbo engine. The oil burner variant is also offered with a revised 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel. The new Civics will be built in Honda’s UK plant in Swindon with sales expected to commence in April 2017.
Back at home, the last time we saw a Civic hatchback offered via official channel is the sixth-generation (EJ/EK) model from 20 years ago. Sadly, the sedan proved to be far more popular here, hence the removal of the hatchback. So, what do you think of this Civic hatchback?
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