Honda

The rise to prominence of Japanese cars started in the 70’s, during the US oil crisis. Small compact cars, from manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, and Mazda competed head-to-head with American muscle cars from Ford, GM and Chrysler. With gas prices soaring then, these pocket rockets gained market shares from their American rival. Among the top seller in the small car line-up was the Honda Civic. It became popular because of its fuel economy, trim availability, and high customization (this model is popular among car customizers). Now the Civic has a hybrid model to boast of.

The first hybrid Civic came out in 2003, with design iterations in 2006. The recent model Civic is not the same as the old compact Civic we knew then; it is now a full pledged sedan. The hybrid Civic is based on the same platform as the regular Civic line, the only difference is on the clear signal lights, side view mirrors, and badging.

It is powered by a 1.3 liter single overhead cam VTEC gasoline engine giving out 93 hp @ 6000 rpm. The electric motor is a 15 kW (20 hp) brushless electric motor which doubles as a generator that produces electricity during braking (regenerative braking). Overall it gives out 110 hp in mixed driving conditions. This power sources are mated to a hybrid powertrain that is called Honda IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) system. Don’t expect this Civic to roar on the highway; with a conservative power output this is not suited for lead foot drivers.

Unlike Toyotas Prius, the civic cannot drive alone on electric motors. It usually requires both engines to be engaged during acceleration. In its stop-and-go mode, the gas engine usually dies down when the car is in idle. When the brake pedals are depressed and you step on the accelerator, the gas engine comes to life. However in highway speeds the IMA comes into play, this enables the electric motors to assist the gasoline engine thus reducing fuel consumption. It has an estimated efficiency of 40 MPG in the city streets and 45 on the highway.

The manual transmission is out of the 2006 and up model Civics. It now comes with continuous variable transmission (CVT) for delivery of power. This CVT is the 4th generation transmission for the Civic; it gives a 9% increased range between minimum and maximum gear ratios. This gives it more smoother acceleration in any RPM range.

The interior of the Civic is quite functional. The two tier instrument panel is once again both loved and hated by critics. Charge meter levels and IMA activation status is very useful. Standard equipment like ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), and AM-FM radio is available. Safety of the passengers is assured by 3 point seat belts at all seating points, with automatic tensioning in the front seats. Dual stage (SRS) airbags are available in the front cabin as well as in the passenger area.

The normal Civic variant in itself is quite a sensible car to drive, when it comes to fuel efficiency. But if you want to become “greener” then the Civic hybrid is for you.

If you want to read more about the Honda Civic Hybrid or any other hybrid car go to Hybrid Car Freak.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Varga

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