Honda Civic Hybrid 2005 review

After three months behind the wheel of Toyota's Prius we thought it only right and proper to devote an equal amount of time to the Honda equivalent, the hybrid powered Civic.

Honda was the first manufacturer to offer a hybrid powered vehicle in Australia with the aptly named Insight back in 2001.

We were there for the historic launch and the Civic Hybrid followed in February 2004, with a second generation Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system and the practicality that comes with of a traditional four-door sedan.

By way of explanation, the futuristic Insight, while suited to the role, was anything but practical as a two-seat, three door hatch with so so suspension.

Like Prius, the Civic Hybrid uses a combination of petrol and electric power to achieve remarkable fuel economy.

The revised IMA system in fact scooped two categories in the 2003 International Engine of the Year awards.

The Hybrid has a small 1.3-litre four cylinder i-DSI VTEC ULEV (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) petrol engine that is supplemented by an ultra-thin electric motor located between the engine and transmission.

The petrol engine produces 63kW of power at 5700rpm and 119Nm of torque at 3300rpm.

Combined with the assistance of the 10kW electric motor, total power output of the car rises to 69kW at 5700rpm and 146Nm of torque at 2000rpm.

This less than the Prius whose larger 1.5-litre engine produces 82kW in total but the Honda is the lighter of the two at 1190kg versus 1295kg.

Like the Prius, the Civic employs a Continuously Variable automatic transmission (CVT) to maximise peformance and ecomony.

The shiftless system is smoother than conventional automatics with less torque loss, allowing the driver to make the most of the engines characteristics.

Aerodynamic aids have also been added to achieve a low wind drag co-efficient. The Hybrid's front bumper, engine undercover, rear floor side under covers and rear spoiler are shaped to improve airflow over the car.

It rolls on low rolling resistance 185/70 R14 88H tyres.

The resulting fuel economy, Honda claims, is 5.2 litres per 100km.

We averaged 5.52L/100km during our stint in the Prius, so it will be interesting to see whether the Honda can equal or better this figure.

Hybrid Civic is priced from $29,990 plus on- road costs.