Category: civic

Jan 18

2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Unveiled: Elevating Compact Luxury with Dynamic Enhancements

Discover the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid

The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid debuts with significant updates that inject a dynamic and more assertive character into its design. Available in both hatchback and sedan forms, this model caters to a broad range of preferences in the compact vehicle sector. Highlighting major stylistic upgrades and integrating a hybrid engine, this Civic variant is tailored for consumers who prioritize eco-friendly performance without compromising on design.

Stylistic Enhancements and Inspirations

Inspired by the high-performance Civic Type R, the 2025 Civic Hybrid sports a bolder look. According to Car and Driver, this model features notable enhancements such as redesigned wheels, a revamped front bumper, and a distinctive grille. These updates enhance the vehicle’s road presence, merging sporty elements with practicality for daily driving.

Additional Insightful Information:

Powertrain Innovations and Capabilities

Projected to include a 1.5-liter engine coupled with an electric motor, the 2025 Civic Hybrid follows the footsteps of the former Honda Insight, aiming to deliver approximately 204 horsepower. This places it just a notch below the Civic SI in terms of power, enhancing its appeal with substantial efficiency and robust performance.

Strategic Market Positioning and Prospects

The new Civic Hybrid sets its sights on competitors like the Toyota Prius, endeavoring to edge past the Prius’s 194 horsepower with slight power gains and potentially better fuel efficiency. The possibility of a plug-in hybrid variant might position it against the Prius Prime, with expectations of over 220 horsepower. As the market for compact hybrids grows, the Civic is designed to be an attractive mix of power, sustainability, and cutting-edge features.

This launch aligns with the increasing demand for vehicles that are both environmentally conscious and performance-oriented. Honda’s approach with the 2025 Civic Hybrid reflects a strategic response to market trends, aiming to maintain its competitiveness within the segment.

Jan 18

Toyota Camry Tops the Used Car Market, Leaving Honda Civic Behind

The Honda Civic has long been a favorite in the used sedan market, but in 2023, it falls short of the Toyota Camry’s dominance. While the Civic remains a popular choice, it is outpaced by the Camry, which claims the top position in used car sales for its segment. Despite the Civic’s enduring appeal, the latest statistics reveal the Camry’s stronger hold on the market.

A 2019 Honda Civic, a less-popular passenger car than the Toyota Camry, takes a corner.
2019 Honda Civic | Honda

In 2023, the Toyota Camry captured 6.1% of the used sedan market, surpassing the Civic’s 5.8%. This shift is a notable change from the previous year, where the Civic led with 5.6% compared to the Camry’s 5.5%. This year’s data underscores the Camry’s continued popularity and the Civic’s slip to second place among used sedans.

While passenger cars like the Civic and Camry hold significant positions, they are overshadowed by the demand for SUVs and pickup trucks. The Ford F-150 leads the used vehicle market, dominating sales across 34 states, while the Honda Civic finds its strongest presence in New Jersey alone. This reflects a broader trend towards larger vehicles in the U.S. market.

Jan 18

Honda shows off fresh Civic, adds a hybrid, promises new Acura SUV

Honda’s Recovery and Ambitious Plans for Electrification

Following a turbulent period due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Honda’s North American operations have stabilized, with sales nearing pre-pandemic levels in 2023. American Honda, buoyed by strong demand, saw a significant rebound, with a year-over-year sales increase exceeding 30%. Looking ahead to 2024, the company is not only enhancing its internal combustion engine lineup but also launching high-volume battery electric vehicles (BEVs), showcasing a strategic pivot towards electrification.

2024 Acura ZDX
The 2024 Acura ZDX arrives in 340-horsepower and 500-horsepower variants. Acura

2024 Acura ZDX
The 2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec offers an electric range of 325 miles. Acura
2024 Acura ZDX
The 2024 Acura ZDX made its debut during Monterey Car Week in California. Acura

Acura’s New Offerings and Technological Advancements

In 2024, Acura is set to introduce the all-electric ZDX SUV, marking a significant step in its EV strategy. This new model, developed in collaboration with General Motors and sharing some base attributes with the Chevrolet Blazer, underscores Acura’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio. The ZDX will debut with advanced features like hands-free driving technology, mirroring systems found in competitors like Ford and GM, and will be available for order directly through Acura’s online platform starting in February.

Honda Fuel Cell
Honda’s fuel cell housing. Honda will introduce a hydrogen fuel cell CR-V in 2024. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Enhancements Across Honda and Acura Models

The upcoming year will also see updates across several Acura models, including the flagship MDX, which will receive a new Bang & Olufsen sound system and switch from a touchpad to a touchscreen infotainment system. The RDX is set to receive functional enhancements to boost its appeal. Additionally, Honda is preparing to launch the Prologue, an all-electric midsize SUV, initially in states with favorable zero-emission vehicle policies, with plans for a nationwide rollout. The Honda CR-V is also evolving, with a new fuel cell version set to debut, representing North America’s first production model to combine plug-in and fuel cell technologies.

2025 Honda Civic
A refreshed version of the 2025 Honda Civic. The model is shown with fresh fascia design and new wheels. American Honda Motor Co., Inc
2025 Honda Civic
Rear of the refreshed 2025 Honda Civic. The model is shown in a Sport Touring trim level. American Honda Motor Co., Inc

This comprehensive overview highlights Honda and Acura’s robust plans for the upcoming year, focusing on advancing electric vehicle technology and refreshing popular models to enhance their market appeal and environmental sustainability.

Jan 18

Honda Unveils Ambitious 2024 EV Lineup: Launching Civic Hybrid, Prologue, and Fuel Cell CR-V

Honda Accelerates into the EV Market with Diverse 2024 Lineup

Honda is set to make a significant entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market in 2024, catching up to competitors like Ford and Toyota. The lineup includes the Honda Prologue SUV and the Acura ZDX SUV, both battery-powered, along with a groundbreaking fuel cell version of the popular CR-V. Additionally, Honda will introduce a hybrid version of the Civic, anticipating that it will constitute 40% of all Civic sales following its release this summer.

Strategic Launch and Innovative Features

The Honda Prologue EV, boasting a 300-mile range with an Ultium battery developed by General Motors, will initially be available in states known for their EV-friendly policies, such as California, Texas, and Florida. This strategic launch approach aims to test the waters in warmer climates before a broader national rollout. Honda is also enhancing buyer incentives, offering significant charging credits and complimentary home charger installations to entice early adopters.

2024 Acura ZDX online reservations (Credit: Acura)

Acura Steps into the EV Arena; Honda Expands into Fuel Cell Technology

Simultaneously, Acura is preparing to market its first fully electric model, the ZDX SUV, with a starting price around $60,000 and a promising range of up to 325 miles. Unique to the industry, Acura will adopt a fully online sales model starting in February, mirroring the approach of EV pioneers like Tesla and Rivian. In a pioneering move, Honda is also launching the CR-V as a hybrid fuel cell vehicle, combining plug-in and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, a first in North America, offering versatility in fueling options for a wider adoption potential.

2024 Honda Civic Hybrid (Credit: Honda)

These initiatives underscore Honda’s commitment to electrification and innovation, setting a strong foundation for its future in the EV market. The introduction of diverse powertrain technologies in its lineup not only caters to current market trends but also positions Honda as a forward-thinking automaker ready to lead in the evolving automotive landscape.

Jul 21

Why the 2023 Subaru WRX May Not Justify Its Higher Price Over the Honda Civic Si

Comparing Costs: 2023 Subaru WRX vs. Honda Civic Si

When evaluating whether the 2023 Subaru WRX justifies its higher price compared to the Honda Civic Si, it’s essential to weigh both the costs and the features each car offers. While the WRX boasts more horsepower, an automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive (AWD), the Civic Si provides a sporty driving experience at a more accessible price. Let’s dive into the specifics of both vehicles to understand their value better.

2023 Subaru WRX Pricing Breakdown:

  • Base Model: Starting at $30,605
  • Premium: Starting at $33,105
  • Limited: Starting at $37,495
  • GT: Starting at $43,395

2023 Honda Civic Si Pricing:

  • Civic Si: Starting at $28,800

For a clearer picture, Subaru’s pricing often does not include additional dealership fees or optional accessories, which can affect the final cost. The WRX’s base model, with its standard features and added options, totals around $31,625 after the destination fee. Meanwhile, the Civic Si’s starting price of $28,800, which includes standard features and a reasonable set of options, is more budget-friendly at approximately $29,895 including destination fees.

Features and Performance: WRX vs. Civic Si

The 2023 WRX comes with a more powerful engine and several performance-focused features such as the Recaro front seats and advanced suspension in the GT trim. However, the Civic Si offers commendable fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride, making it an appealing choice for daily driving. While the WRX excels in raw performance and track capability, the Civic Si provides a balanced blend of sportiness and practicality at a more affordable price.

In essence, the WRX’s higher cost may be justified for enthusiasts seeking maximum performance and advanced features. Still, for those prioritizing comfort, fuel economy, and cost-effectiveness, the Civic Si presents a compelling alternative.