New Honda Civic ready to debut in Malaysia; When does India get it?

02/07/2012 - 15:12 | ,   | Kaustubh Shinde

If you have been following IAB regularly, you will notice a lot of updates from important markets close by such as China, Malaysia and Thailand.

Honda all-new Civic Malaysia

A lot of these markets get more or less the same products and are one of the few fastest growing markets in the world. This conveniently brings us to the Honda Civic which is all set for its debut in Malaysia.

LiveLifeDrive reports that Honda has teased the all-new Civic for the Malaysian markets. The latest generation Honda Civic was by far the most criticized of the lot. There were massive controversies about its conservative styling and quality issues thanks to ConsumerReports.

Despite the criticism, the Honda Civic sold 135,000 units from January to May 2012, outselling all C-segment competitors to become the number one choice in the US.

Honda Civic new

The Honda Civic for the Malaysian markets is slightly different from the US ones. It has a lower front bumper with a different design and taillights that extend onto the boot lid. It will be launched in three engine options:

  • 1.6-litre i-VTEC engine with 125 HP at 6,500 rpm and 151 Nm at 4,300 rpm
  • 1.8-litre i-VTEC engine with 142 HP at 6,500 rpm and 174 Nm at 4,300 rpm
  • 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine with to 155 HP at 6,500 rpm and 190 Nm at 4,300 rpm

See more images of the new Honda Civic

The top-end variant would come with a number of premium features such as:

  • Power-adjustable driver seat
  • Auto-off headlamp time
  • Smart entry
  • Push button start
  • Cruise control
  • Front and side SRS airbags
  • Rear ISOFIX points
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
  • Built-in NAVI operation system with a 5 inch touchscreen display
  • Reverse parking camera

Prices are expected to start at 118,000 Malaysian Ringgits (approx 20 lakh INR).

Back home, the Civic’s dwindling sales can be attributed to many factors. Once a superstar in the D segment, the Honda Civic is now a sales dud. The simple truth is - it’s about time for a change. Perhaps Honda India is awaiting the development of a diesel engine to finish, to fit it under the Civic’s hood?

Honda India is currently developing a small diesel engine for Brio, Jazz and City. These models are Honda’s chief money earners. It certainly makes sense to introduce the diesel variants first before venturing into new projects. Honda is also said to be investing in a diesel engine plant in Tapukara, Rajasthan.

The new Honda Civic is certainly destined for India. But the more Honda delays, the more market share is forgone.

[Source: Livelifedrive.com & Facebook.com]

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