This new-generation Civic hybrid, built in Japan, shows that Honda is intending to really take on the all-conquering Prius this time around.
The standard Civic Hybrid has an MSRP of $21,850 while the Navigation-equipped Civic Hybrid begins at $23,350.
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Honda has gone all-out to endow this car with the right image: it's trying to get away from the idea that so-called eco-friendly cars are all budget runarounds driven by sandal-wearing tree-huggers.
With its redesign, Honda has brought the Civic Hybrid to a new level. It is sleeker and smoother than the previous Civic Hybrid yet doesn't look much different than the non-hybrid Civic. The antenna on the rear roofline, the hybrid badge, and the unique rims are the main differences from the non-hybrid Civic.Technology
The 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid's power is transferred to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Like all hybrid vehicles, a permanent magnet electric motor assists the gas-burning, 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine during acceleration. Honda claims this IMA system can motor along just on the batteries under certain low-load, steady state cruise conditions.
A new regenerative braking system – utilizing vented front discs and rear drums equipped with ABS, EBD, and brake assist – captures energy to recharge the nickel metal hydride battery pack. In the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid, this system uses a new advanced hydraulic booster for better brake pedal feel and smoother modulation. Low-rolling resistance tires, sized P195/75R15, are wrapped around unique lightweight alloy wheels bolted to a MacPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension. Guiding the whole package down the road is an electric steering system that offers predictable response off-center combined with light effort at slow speeds and decent heft at higher speeds.
The 2007 Civic Hybrid provides a larger feeling than any Civic I‘ve been in. The slope of the front windshield and the little triangle side windows up front provide a great view of the road.
Around town and on the highway the Civic Hybrid has adequate power for a small car. The 2007 Civic Hybrid's 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with the electric motor produces 115 horsepower. Will it beat a Mustang or Corvette? Of course not! But it got me from one place to another just fine, and merging with traffic was never a problem.While the front and rear seats were comfortable, I wish Honda would find a way to have rear folding seats in the Civic Hybrid. Since the hybrid battery is housed vertically behind the Civic Hybrid's rear seats they can not be folded down. This is the one feature that keeps this great hybrid car from attaining five stars.