Honda has started working on the real prototypes of their next-generation Civic, and we caught the first one testing close to their European development centre in Germany.
The original compact hatch had been launched way back in 1972, and the current model made its debut in 2005. We expect the new model to arrive in late 2011 or spring 2012.
Completely disguised
The prototype snapped here came in with a similar wheelbase but slightly wider track so we reckon overall dimensions won’t differ much from today’s model. The test car was completely disguised up to the car’s waistline and made the photographer talk about a “design-free” car, but one closer gives a first glimpse of the new Civic’s front grille, the handles of the rear side doors and the entire roof line as well as the greenhouse.
Engines
Power will continue to come from four-cylinder petrol and turbodiesel units delivering between 80 and 140 hp. The current 1.3-litre, 115-hp hybrid motor will be carried over for the new model as well.
