Honda Civic Hybrid - Third Generation (2011- )

Third Generation (2011- )

The latest Civic Hybrid was launched during 2011 in the U.S. and Canada as a 2012 model. It has a larger 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine that produces 90 horsepower and 97 pound-feet of torque and a lithium-ion battery pack instead of nickel-metal hydride. The larger engine replaces the 1.3-L engine for better mid-range torque. The DC brushless permanent magnet motor, which is placed between the engine and continuously variable transmission, provides 17 kW (23 hp) and 78 pound-feet of torque and weighs 0.7 kg (1.5 lb) less. The 2012 Civic Hybrid has an EPA rating of 44 mpg (5.3 L/100 km; 53 mpg) for the city and highway driving cycles, an improvement from 40 mpg (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg) city and 43 mpg (5.5 L/100 km; 52 mpg) highway for the previous generation.

The Civic Hybrid has the latest Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) parallel hybrid system, with a new 20 kW lithium-ion battery — a first for a Honda hybrid vehicle. The new battery is 5 kW more powerful, 9 kg (20 lb) lighter and takes up 36% less space. The charging and discharging rates is increased from 35 kAh to 100 kAh.

It comes with improved aerodynamics and Honda ECO Assist technology. The ECO Assist technology is an information system to help the driver adopt a more fuel-efficient driving style, and is proven to improve fuel economy by about 10% for Honda's hybrid vehicles in Japan.

Production of the Civic hybrid sedan will be moved from Suzuka (Japan) to Indiana (U.S.A) and Swindon (England) in early 2013. As of this, sales of Civic Hybrid sedan in Europe will be ended and replaced by its European hatchback version within retaining hybrid powertrain.