Ninth Generation Honda Civic Facelift
The 9th-generation Honda Civic, including the FG coupe body style, was given a cosmetic facelift just one year after it launched in the USA due to scathing criticism of the pre-updated model's poor overall quality, particularly with the comfort levels of the seats. Visually, Honda decided to provide the economy sedan with a new set of bumpers, a new grille, and revisions to the trimmings with the aim of making the conservative product more youthful and premium.
Engine, Transmission and Drivetrain
The 9th-gen Civic is available with a pair of naturally aspirated engines that cater to both the everyday user and the hypermiler. Starting off the range is the R18Z1 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque for the pre-updated model. This is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission for the entry-level DX and mid-tier LX trims as standard, but a five-speed automatic transmission is optionally available. The EX and EX-L can only be had with the auto.
For 2014 models, the outputs of this unit are increased to 143 hp and 129 lb-ft. The torque-converter transmission also falls away to make space for Honda's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
The Honda Civic Hybrid option uses the LEA-MF6 naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is supported by an integrated starter generator positioned alongside a CVT. This system generates a combined output of 110 hp and 127 lb-ft. The Hybrid is available as a sedan exclusively and thus cannot be had in the FG Coupe shape.
Read more - Honda Civic 9th Generation 2012-2015 (FB/FG) Review
Author: NIKESH KOOVERJEE