Following up with its promise made earlier this year, Honda Malaysia is now introducing a new hybrid variant for the ever-so-popular all-new Civic. Coming in as the model’s new range-topping variant, the new Honda Civic e:HEV RS is now open for booking here in Malaysia, with a launch expected before the end of 2022.
In terms of appearance, the new hybrid variant is really not too different when compared to the existing Honda Civic RS. To differentiate between the two, the e:HEV RS variant does get additional chrome details on the front grille, door handles, and window surrounds, alongside a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels.
The main difference on the hybrid variant is, of course, the new powertrain underneath the bonnet. The e:HEV hybrid engine for the Civic is one of the most powerful units in Honda’s stable, and consists of a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated Atkinson cycle inline-four engine plus two electric motors – one “traction” motor driving the front wheels.
As a whole, the e:HEV system makes 184 hp and 315 Nm of torque – the latter a massive 75 Nm more than the turbocharged models.
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How much does that translate over to actual performance on the roads, and how does the extra weight affect the Civic’s impressive handling? Find out in the video above as we test it out on Sepang International Circuit!
