Best Selling, Fun-to-drive Honda Civic Enhanced Again for 2014 Model Year

America's most popular compact car gets significant styling, powertrain and feature upgrades to further extend its competitive lead

The Honda Civic, America's best-selling compact car, extends its competitive lead and value for customers with a long list of enhancements for the 2014 model year. Building on the model year 2012 redesign and model year 2013 major refresh, the 2014 Civic features exciting and innovative upgrades including:

•New sportier exterior styling for Civic Coupe and Civic Si Coupe

•Interior styling upgrades for all Civic models

•New available CVT that enhances performance and fuel efficiency

•New available Display Audio with 7-inch pinch, tap and swipe touchscreen

•Increased engine performance on all models except Natural Gas and Hybrid

•Civic HF achieves a class-leading 35 mpg combined EPA rating

•New available features include Honda LaneWatch™ blind spot display and Smart Entry with Push Button start

'Year over year, we have continued to strengthen the competitive position of Civic with new performance, features and value for the money, and 2014 is no exception,' said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. 'This 2014 Civic is our best offering yet, and makes Civic not just the best-selling, but once again the outright best pick in the compact class.'

The 2014 Honda Civic Sedan and Coupe launch at Honda dealerships nationwide on December 4, 2013, followed by the Civic Hybrid and Civic Natural Gas early in 2014, and the Civic Si Coupe and Si Sedan in the spring.

Civic Coupe styling and performance

Following a major refresh of Civic Sedan styling for 2013, Honda turns its attention to the Civic Coupe, implementing a host of exterior design changes that include a more aggressive grille, fender, hood and headlight design. Additional Civic Coupe exterior changes include new taillight lenses, sportier front and rear bumpers, new side mirrors and new wheel designs, with larger size wheels on some models. Inside, a host of premium interior refinements were applied to all models, including new seat fabrics, door panel trim and audio panel color coordination.

The Civic Coupe also receives additional performance enhancements, including revised suspension tuning with higher spring rates and a stiffer rear stabilizer bar. A revised exhaust system raises power output by 3 horsepower to 143 hp2 and 1 lb-ft of torque to 129 lb-ft3. For added driver engagement, the Civic EX and EX-L Coupe models feature new steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

New Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Adding to Civic fuel-efficiency and fun-to-drive performance, an all-new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) replaces the 5-speed automatic in both the Coupe and Sedan (except Civic Natural Gas); the Civic Hybrid retains its current CVT. The new CVT enhances responsiveness by providing quicker and smoother acceleration and improves fuel efficiency with a 22 percent wider ratio range and reduced internal friction. The new CVT contributes to higher EPA fuel economy ratings1 of 30 mpg city (+2 mpg; +1 in models equipped with paddle shifters) and 33 mpg combined (+1 mpg). The even more fuel-efficient Civic HF improves to an EPA-rated 42 mpg highway (+1 mpg).

Civic Si styling and performance

The Civic Si Coupe benefits from the same styling enhancements as the standard Civic Coupe but adds Si-exclusive design cues, including a unique lower front bumper garnish, larger rear decklid spoiler, and distinctive front and rear air diffusers. Both the Si Coupe and Si Sedan get larger, 18-inch wheels and tires with new wheel designs.

The performance-tuned Civic Si Coupe and Sedan also get revised suspension tuning, with higher spring rates, new dampers and stiffer rear stabilizer bar. Power is boosted to 205 horsepower4 (+4 horsepower) and 174 lb-ft of torque5 (+4 lb-ft) via a retuned exhaust system.

New Premium Features

New innovations and premium features abound on the 2014 Honda Civic. Standard and available features include a new 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen control center with optional navigation function, convenient Smart Entry with Push Button start, expanded view driver's mirror and Honda LaneWatch™ blind spot display for enhanced driver visibility, plus available auto on/off headlights and power driver seat with 8-way adjustability.

The 2014 Honda Civic Coupe and Sedan are available in LX, EX, EX-L and EX-L Navi versions. The Civic HF is available in a sedan body style. The Civic Si Coupe and Sedan are available in standard and Navi trims. Standard, Leather, Navi, and Leather Navi variants are available for the Civic Hybrid. The Civic Natural Gas is available in standard trim and a new Leather Navi version. The 2014 Civic Sedan and Coupe, including Si models, are offered in a new Modern Steel Metallic exterior color, while the Si Coupe and Si Sedan are available in a new Orange Fire Pearl.

by Honda

2014 Honda Civic Goes On-Sale Today with a Restyled Coupe, Higher Tech, Better Fuel Efficiency and an Improved Driving Experience

12/04/2013 - TORRANCE, Calif.

•Coupe styling changes accentuate the Civic's sporty and youthful appearance

•Available technology additions include a 7-inch touch-screen Display Audio system and next generation HondaLink™ connectivity

•LaneWatch™ blind spot display comes to Civic line-up

•All-new CVT option increases performance and fuel efficiency

The significantly enhanced 2014 Honda Civic goes on-sale today with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $18,1901 for the Civic LX Coupe and $18,3901 for the Civic LX Sedan.

Extensive fresh and dynamic exterior styling updates on the Civic Coupe and premium interior refinements to all models further enhance the Civic aesthetic appeal. New available features on the 2014 Civic include the 7-inch capacitive touch-screen Display Audio, LaneWatch™ blind spot monitor and Smart Entry with Push Button start. The 2014 Civic also marks the introduction of the HondaLink™ Next Generation connected-car technology. HondaLink™ is an application-based platform that allows a seamless integration between a user's smartphone and the car, providing access to online and cloud-based content and information.

An all-new CVT is available on the gasoline only powered Coupe and Sedan. The CVT enhances responsiveness by providing quicker and smoother acceleration and due to its wider ratio range and reduced internal friction, the CVT helped the LX Coupe and LX and EX Sedans to an improvement of 2 mpg city and 1 mpg combined for EPA fuel economy ratings of 30/39/33 city/highway/combined2.

The Civic Coupe is available in LX and EX trims with a 5-speed manual transmission or the new CVT and EX-L and EX-L Navi versions with CVT. The Civic Sedan comes in LX 5-speed manual or CVT and EX, EX-L and EX-L Navi with CVT. A Civic Sedan HF with CVT is also available.

by Honda

Honda Evolves In-Car Connectivity with New Display Audio Touch-Screen Interface and Next Generation HondaLink™ Technology

12/03/2013 - TORRANCE, Calif.

•Advanced connected-car technology debuts in 2014 Honda Civic, followed by 2015 Fit

•Display Audio touchscreen brings smartphone-like functionality inside the vehicle

•Next gen HondaLink™ makes integrated navigation more affordable and intuitive with smartphone-powered navigation app

•2014 Civic with Display Audio first Honda model with factory installed Siri™ Eyes Free mode from Apple

Honda today introduced the next generation of connected-car technology to meet the evolving needs of today's tech-savvy, always-connected consumers: Honda Display Audio and HondaLink™. Together these technologies represent the most advanced information and media connectivity package ever offered by Honda. Both new systems were demonstrated earlier today on a Google Hangout available to view on Honda's Google+ page (https://plus.google.com/+Honda/posts) and will debut on the 2014 Civic, which goes on-sale tomorrow.

Additionally, the 2014 Civic equipped with Display Audio marks Honda's first factory installed integration of Apple's Siri Eyes Free mode with Siri operation available directly through the steering wheel-mounted controls when a compatible iPhone is paired via Bluetooth®.

'Display Audio and HondaLink are pioneering technologies that seamlessly and intuitively integrate the power and functionality of a customers' smartphone directly into their vehicle,' said Charles Koch, manager of new business development for American Honda. 'Staying connected to the latest music, information, news, traffic updates, even friends and family, is a must-have capability for a new generation of car buyers.'

Display Audio

The new Display Audio interface1 debuts on the 2014 Civic (EX models and above) and will be featured on the all-new 2015 Fit, arriving next spring. Offering one of the largest touchscreens in its class, Display Audio uses the familiar pinch, swipe and tap functionality of a smartphone to access audio, phonebook, media, vehicle information and available navigation features.

Icons resembling smartphone apps are displayed on a 7-inch, high-definition, capacitive touchscreen, making the interface intuitive and easy to use. Standard internet-sourced music and media options, such as Pandora® are built into the Display Audio interface, with the ability to create personalized stations, tap to 'like' songs, and view album artwork directly from the touchscreen. Display Audio also integrates touch operation of the volume (with a quick-swipe adjustment), menu, and return functions for a modern and sleek look. Standard steering wheel controls compliment the touchscreen features as well.

Next Generation HondaLink™

The Display Audio system with next generation HondaLink allows the customer's digital lifestyle to seamlessly integrate with the car and provides access to a world of cloud-based information. The all-new application-based platform connects customers to online content both inside and outside the car, all powered by their smartphones. At launch timing, iPhone 5, 5S and 5C will benefit from all the features HondaLink offers. Compatible Android smartphone's are anticipated to become available next year.

Four specialty HondaLink apps provide organization and are a gateway to additional online content:

•Connect App – Provides convenient access for many services including location searches, local weather, messaging, Maintenance Minder alerts, service scheduling by phone, and access to the Owners Guide. Users can tap for weather updates and store favorite destinations for quick routing with the Navigation app.

•Navigation App – For the first time Honda is offering a comprehensive cloud-based navigation app for purchase2 that includes 3D mapping and continuously updated traffic information. As the first navigation app developed by an automaker with mapping data provided by HERE, a Nokia business, this app offers a variety of location search options including search by point of interest, text search, or previous locations. Routes can be pre-planned on a smartphone and will display on the vehicle's touchscreen. Turn-by-turn routing guidance is available through the vehicle's audio system as well.

•Aha™App – provides access to an extensive and diverse selection of audio content across multiple genres and demographics, plus featured new stations, Internet radio, podcasts, audiobooks, news, Twitter and Facebook updates and nearby location listings for restaurants, coffee houses, hotels, weather, parks, and gas stations. Users can tap to personalize stations or add favorites via smartphone or directly through the Display Audio interface.

•Launcher App –Finds and organizes Honda-approved 3rd party apps so they can be quickly integrated into the Display Audio system. Approved apps can be found through the Launcher and shown on the Display Audio screen for easy access.

Additional new features found with HondaLink include HondaLink Assist, which can help provide emergency assistance to drivers. If there is a cellular connection and an airbag deployment sensor is triggered by a collision, the system is designed to automatically attempt to notify an operator, report the car's current location, and allow you to talk directly to the operator. The operator can then contact emergency services if needed.

Siri Eyes Free Integration

Display Audio integrates Apple's Siri Eyes Free mode into Honda vehicles. Compatible iPhone® users will be able to operate Siri through familiar voice commands by pressing and holding the TALK button on the steering wheel when their iPhone is paired via Bluetooth® . Using Eyes Free mode, Siri takes hands-free functionality even further and helps minimize distractions by keeping an iOS device's screen from lighting up.

Owners can direct Siri to perform a number of specific tasks while they keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.

•Sending text messages and e-mails

•Reading incoming text messages and emails

•Setting up calendar entries, reminders, and alarms

•Checking the weather

•Turn-by-turn voice navigation (when the audio system is set to Bluetooth® Audio or iPod mode)

•Sports scores and stock quotes

Display Audio is the first factory installed integration of Siri Eyes Free mode into a Honda vehicle. Previously, it was available on select Honda and Acura models including the 2013 -2014 Honda Accord and 2013 Acura RDX and ILX only as a dealer installed accessory.

For additional Display Audio images and videos, please visit www.hondanews.com. To view the HondaLink Google Hangout, visit the Honda Google+ page at https://plus.google.com/+Honda/posts.

About Honda

Honda offers a complete lineup of cars and trucks through a network of more than 1,000 dealerships in the United States. In 2013, Honda marks 40 years of the Civic model, with more than 30 years of producing automobiles in America, which began with the Accord in Marysville, Ohio, in November 1982. Having produced more than 25 million vehicles in North America through 2012 using domestic and globally1 sourced parts, Honda currently operates 14 major manufacturing facilities in North America, producing a wide range of Honda automobiles, all-terrain vehicles, power equipment products, engines and transmissions.

by Honda

Manufactured by Honda in July of 1972, the two-door sedan Honda Civic was small and compact yet filled with vast interior space.

Rated as Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1980, the Civic achieved status on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best lists six time from 1985 to 1996. At the 2006 North American International Auto show (NAIAS) Car of the Year awards, the Civic took home the North American Car of the Year title.

The first-year civic came with an estimated 50 horsepower, and a 1,169 cc inline four-cylinder engine. Weighing only about 1,500 pounds, the Civic came with 0.71 horsepower per cubic inch. The Civic came with a transverse engine, and 1169 cc engine with front wheel drive and a wheelbase of 220 cm.

Sold as either a four-speed manual or two speed, this vehicle typically came with a A radio, heater, plastic trim, painted steel rims with a chromed wheel nut cap and two-speed wipers.

Eventually becoming more luxurious, the updated Civic comes with satellite-linked navigation, power lock and windows and as a six-speed manual.

Before 1973, Honda was better known for producing motorcycles than vehicles. It was the arrival of the Civic that turned around the Honda opinion and its predilection for vehicle production. Achieving more than 40 mpg on the highway, this small car had room for four passengers.

Available in either a 3-door hatchback or a sedan version, this vehicles were identical except for their rear options. The sedan offered a small vertical panel that opened and provided access to the ‘trunk'.

Arriving with standard options such as power front disc brakes, reclining bucket seats, woodgrain-accented dashboard and vinyl seating, the options were minimal butincluded air conditioning, automatic transmission, rear wipers (in the hatchback) and radial tires. The hatchback also included a fold-down rear seat, cloth upholstery and an AM radio.

Honda Civic's have always represented dependability and a good value for the price. At a base price of around $2,200, the Civc was considered to be practical and ecconomical without any pretenses.

Nearly two years after its release, the engine expanded to 1,237 cc and available horsepower when from 50 to 52. The bumpers on the Civic also grew longer along with its overall length to 146.9 inches to meet the 5-mph bumper impact standard.

A design that promoted cleaner and more efficient combustion, the CVCC (Controlled Vortex Combustion Chamber) was introduced in 1975 and eliminated the need for a catalytic convertor or unleaded fuel to meet emission standards. This new engine offered 53-horsepower displaced 1, 499 cc.

In 1975 a manual 5-speed manual gear box also became available at the same time as the Civic station wagon was released. The station wagon measured an overall length of 160 inches and had a wheelbase of 89.9 inches and came with the new CVCC engine.

In this same year, Civic sales ranked a whopping 100,000 units.

With an increase of the CVCC engine to 60 horsepower, 1978 models had new black grilles, new turn signals and rear-facing hood vents.

The 1980 Civic came with a sleek body that had an increased wheelbase at 88.6 inches for the Hatchback and 91.3 inches for the wagon. At the same time, the ‘sedan' version was no longer produced.

In 1981, a four-door sedan was introduced, and at the same time the rudimentary two-speed unit was replaced by a more modern three-speed automatic. The following year the five-speed ‘FE' (Fuel Economy) was released and achieved 41 mpg in the city, and 55 mpg on the highway. Updated features included rectangular headlamps and black bumpers.

In 1984 the Civic began to expand in size, and also became more advanced and sophisticated in terms of design. A new 1.5 liter-engine with 12 valves and 76 horsepower came on the newly released Civic.

Civic's strong reputation as a reliable and dependable vehicle continued through the years. Popularity for Honda vehicles continued to rise and their annual sales topped 200,000.

by Jessican Donaldson