Honda is advancing its focus on electrification with the upcoming launch of the 2024 Civic Hybrid, which will be available as both a sedan and a hatchback. Honda’s plan to eventually have an all-electric vehicle lineup by 2040 is being advanced through the inclusion of a hybrid option for the 2024 Civic. Introducing more hybrid vehicles serves as a stepping stone toward that goal. A hybrid version of the Civic hatchback was made available in Europe, according to reports last April. This car would also be available in the US to replace the discontinued Insight sedan. More information is needed because it is unclear at present how Honda will modify the powertrain of the European Civic, which features a 2.0-liter inline-four engine and two electric motors producing a total of 181 horsepower, for the US market. It is desired that the Civic hybrid performs similarly to the 2023 Accord hybrid, which boasts a hybrid setup generating 204 horsepower.
The company aims to have 50% of the CR-V and Accord’s overall sales figures from their hybrid versions. They see this as a crucial step towards lowering emission of greenhouse gas and transitioning customers to fully electrified vehicles.
In March, Honda presented the Civic Hybrid hatchback to the European market and followed up with the unveiling of the sedan version in Thailand. The e: HEV hybrid system is powered by a new 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine and two compact electric motors, producing a total of 181 horsepower (135 kW) and 232 lb-ft (315 Nm) torque. The automaker has paired this system with the e-CVT transmission, which focuses on efficiency rather than sports performance.
Honda and its luxury brand Acura are moving towards a future dominated by battery electric vehicles, but their approaches to electrification differ. Honda is not currently focusing on plug-in hybrids. However, they may be introduced later in the decade along with a growing number of EVs, some of which will be developed with General Motors. On the other hand, Acura will not include hybrids or plug-in hybrids in its lineup and will shift to battery-electric models much faster. This electrification transition will be done quicker for Acura, bypassing hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
Mamadou Diallo, who serves as the Vice President of Sales, stated that despite challenges from supply issues that are common in the industry, Honda and Acura are poised for increased sales in 2023. It is due to introduction of new models, including updated light trucks, a focus on hybrid vehicles, and a commitment to creating fun-to-drive cars. According to Diallo, the brands are “well positioned” for the upcoming year, and he remains optimistic about their future.
Honda is not new to hybrid vehicles in the US. The Honda Insight hit the US market seven months ahead of the arrival of the Toyota Prius in 1999, but it was recognized in a distinctive manner. The latest iteration of the Insight, the third generation, has experienced more success, having sold 70,000 units since 2018. The Civic Hybrid was accessible in the US from 2003 until its discontinuation in 2015.
Honda aims to attract younger customers by incorporating a hybrid power system into the Civic, moving towards a lineup with a greater emphasis on electrification. The company will also start taking orders for its first all-electric SUV, the Prologue, later in the year. The hybrid version of the Civic is anticipated to be disclosed nearer to its launch date, which is expected in early 2024.
Hybrids, such as the Prius and Insight, were considered unique vehicles in the past. However, over the last ten years, hybrid technology has become a standard feature across various vehicle types. Honda’s switch from the Insight to hybrid versions of the Civic, Accord, and CR-V reflects the industry’s shift towards a wider use of hybrid powertrains.
The previous model of the Civic was a recipient of the Best Buy Award in its category but surprised some fans and car enthusiasts by not having a hybrid option. The hybrid system boosts the battery during slowing down and braking. The engine automatically turns off at stop signs, resulting in increased fuel efficiency. The Civic Hybrid features lightweight 15-inch alloy rims and tires with reduced friction, improving fuel economy and performance. Leather seating and navigation are available as optional features. A rear backup camera and Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering, which helps maintain stability in case the driver loses control, are both included as standard features in all Civic models manufactured in 2015.