Before the debut of the Honda Civic, Honda was more well-known for its motorcycles than its cars. The first Honda Civic, introduced in 1972 as a 1973 model, changed the game for the Honda brand, paving the way for Honda to become one of the most well-known automakers in the world. A surprisingly spacious interior, impressive fuel economy, and sporty performance made the affordable Civic an instant success.
The first generation Honda Civic was available as a hatchback or a sedan. These body styles were nearly identical, except that one offered a hatchback rear, while the other was a boot. Standard equipment included vinyl seating, reclining bucket seats, power front disc brakes, and a woodgrain-accented dashboard. Over the next seven years, Honda improved the first generation Civic’s engine in terms of both power output and efficiency.
The second generation Civic was introduced in 1980, bringing with it a more sleek body design and increases in the wheelbase and engine size. Now bigger and more powerful, the 1980 Honda Civic was dressed to impress. In 1981, the four-door sedan model debuted, adding an additional choice to the Civic lineup.
The third generation Civic, introduced in 1984, was more sophisticated and bigger than any Civic that had come before it. A new 1.5 liter-engine rated at 76 horsepower powered all Civic models, except the base Civic, which was powered by a 1.3-liter, 60 horsepower engine. In 1985, the hot compact CRX Si variant was debuted, marking its territory in the sports car segment.
In 1988, Honda introduced an even sleeker, more powerful fourth generation Civic. A more powerful, 16-valve engine that put out 92 horsepower combined with a more aerodynamic body style to improve both performance and efficiency.
In 1992, the fifth generation Civic made its way to the market expanding the sedan’s dimensions. Safety increased in this generation, with the addition of a standard driver-side airbag for all models and standard antilock (ABS) brakes on the EX sedan.
In 1996, Honda introduced a revamped Civic lineup for its sixth generation. A completely redesigned body featured a sharp character line that ran the length of the car. A number of trims and options made the Civic desirable for any car shopper.
The seventh generation was unveiled in 2000, and the interior space was enhanced in part by adding a flat rear floor. Doing so bumped the Civic up to the compact car size segment. The eight generation came in 2006, and featured much more aggressive body styling, with an entirely new, aerodynamic front fascia. Honda unveiled the ninth generation in 2011, and at this time, Honda’s Eco Assist technology was added to most models. The information system helped the driver adopt more efficient driving techniques. Now, Honda is prepared to introduce the 2016 Civic model, marking the much-loved sedan’s tenth generation. We can’t wait to see what Honda has in store!
