2022 Honda Civic e:HEV launched in China; When will it come to Malaysia?

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda officially introduced the hybrid version of the eleventh-generation Civic in Thailand back in March. Equipped with the brand’s i-MMD (intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) technology, the all-new Civic e: HEV joins the VTEC Turbo-powered versions, which are also available in the local market. Well, now we heard that the electrified Civic has made its way to China.

Dongfeng Honda, the joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Group and Honda Motor in China, has recently showcased the new Civic e:HEV at the 2022 Chengdu Auto Show. It is offered in three variants, priced between CNY 159,900 (RM 103,670) and CNY 187,900 (RM 121,823).

The Chinese-spec Civic e:HEV is equipped with a two-motor i-MMD petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, comprising a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle four-cyl engine and two electric motors. The setup combinedly produced a total output of 184 PS and a peak torque of 315 Nm. Shifting duties are handled by an e-CVT.

According to Dongfeng Honda, the Civic hybrid delivers a fuel economy of 4.39L/100 km (22.7 kmpl), 4.47L/km (22.3 kmpl), or 4.51L/ km (22.1 kmpl), according to different configurations.

Design-wise, the Civic e:HEV appears the same as the non-hybrid model with specific cues like a blackened internal grille, distinctive 18-inch alloy wheels and e:HEV logo at the rear confirming its identity.

Part of the equipment kit are LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, Adaptive Driving Beam, a panoramic sunroof, a 9.0-inch infotainment system, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, Honda Connect 3.0 system, and more.

Keeping the Chinese people safe is the sedan’s strong safety shield comprising several active and passive safety gears. It includes a Honda LaneWatch camera, six airbags, VSA, ABS, EBD, and a Honda Sensing ADAS suite. The latter bundles Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Information, and Cross Traffic Monitor.

Honda Civic in Malaysia

Closer to home, the non-hybrid sedan is on offer in three trims - E, V, and RS, with prices ranging from RM 130,700 to RM 150,700. Honda Malaysia is likely to assemble the Civic e:HEV locally at its Pegoh facility, however, an official announcement is still awaited on that. But if it turns into reality, how much premium would you be willing to pay for an electrified model? Let us know in the comments.

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