PETALING JAYA: The Honda Civic e:HEV RS is launched today and priced at RM166,500.
The hybrid is the fourth variant and sits at the top of the Civic line-up.
While the 1.5E, 1.5V and 1.5 RS use a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, the hybrid uses a 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain – a first for Civic and Honda Malaysia.
The Civic e:HEV RS also joins the expanding line-up of Honda e:HEV models, which include City, City Hatchback and the HR-V.
The e:HEV powertrain pairs a 4-cylinder Atkinson Cycle petrol engine with an electric motor to provide a system output of 182hp and a benchmark setting 315Nm of torque that is unmatched in its segment and comparable with D-segment models.
It is coupled with an electric Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT) and an Intelligent Power Unit.
In tune with the sporty RS styling, this Civic comes with chrome ring insert headlight and front grille, black half chrome door handle, as well as the unique Blue H Mark and e:HEV emblem which are all exclusive to the Civic e:HEV RS variant.
This variant also sports 18-inch dual tone alloy wheels and a single tailpipe finisher, giving it a sporty appearance to match its performance.
In the cabin, the hybrid gets a 10.2-inch full TFT meter for the first time. Other newly introduced features are the wireless charger and the key card which are both unique to this Civic variant. The key card is used for keyless entry and start function.
The Civic e:HEV RS is also kitted up with a 9-inch Advanced Display Audio with wireless Apple CarPlay.
Another feature that is unique to the e:HEV RS variant is the Power Flow Display which supports eco-friendly driving by showing the flow of energy in the car. The display changes in real time according to the driving status and is accessible through the display audio for a better visual of the energy flow.
For better ride comfort of driver and passengers, improvements have been made to the car’s Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) where the Active Noise Control (ANC) works together with Active Sound Control (ASC) to reduce outside noise while enhancing the engine sound to deliver an exciting driving experience.
As with all Honda models, the Civic e:HEV RS comes equipped with the full suite of enhanced Honda SENSING safety features that include:
1. Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
2. Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN)
3. Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
4. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
5. Low Speed Follow (LSF)
6. Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)
7. Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
8. Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
9. Auto High Beam (AHB)
Other features included in the Civic e:HEV RS are Honda LaneWatch, Walk Away Auto Lock, Remote Engine Start, Rear Seat Belt Reminder and Driver Attention Monitor.
Additionally, Honda CONNECT is offered in the Civic e:HEV RS. Honda CONNECT is an innovative technology that applies smart Telematics Technology to provide multiple benefits of safety, security and convenience.
Key functions of the telematics technology in Honda CONNECT include Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Applications, Security Applications, Vehicle Tracking and Support Services, which are all targeted to provide peace of mind and ease accessibility to the vehicle’s information.
READ MORE: Honda Civic e:HEV RS large project leader speaks
The Civic e:HEV RS will be offered in Ignite Red, Meteoroid Gray, Platinum White Pearl and Crystal Black Pearl.
The 11th generation Civic was introduced to the Malaysian market early this year. Honda Malaysia said nearly 7,000 units of the new Civic have been sold to date and it has achieved the top position in its segment with 81% market share as of September.
Malaysians experienced Honda's hybrid technology in 2007 when the first Civic Hybrid was launched.
"Since then, we have advanced in the hybrid technology. The introduction of e:HEV powertrain is well accepted in the Malaysian market," said Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Hironobu Yoshimura.
SPECIFICATIONS & BROCHURE
Yoshimura (left) and Honda Malaysia president and chief operating officer Sarly Adle Sarkum posing with the Civic hybrid at its launch today.
