Honda Civic Hatchback (2017)

The 2017 Civic Hatchback was developed jointly by Honda R&D teams in Europe and Japan and is manufactured exclusively by Honda of the UK Manufacturing in its Swindon, UK plant.

Body

Joining the historic 10th generation Civic lineup, the new 2017 Civic Hatchback combines fun-to-drive character, dramatic styling and unsurpassed cargo capability. The Civic Hatchback shares much of its unibody structure with the Civic Sedan, including extensive use of high-strength steel and Honda's next-generation ACE™ body structure and crash stroke front frame, which enables superior crash-worthiness. Other benefits to this rigid but lightweight structure include low overall noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), and inspiring ride and handling qualities. Intensive body sealing measures, acoustic windshield glass, and hydraulic suspension mounts give the Honda Civic Hatchback the quietness and refinement to go with its inspired driving character.

The Civic Hatchback shares its front-end styling and wheelbase with the current Civic Sedan, but from the B-pillars rearward it is utterly unique. The rear roofline is taller than the Sedan's to provide class-leading cargo space, while the rear overhang is shorter, adding to the vehicle's Euro-style sportiness. Along with the choice of 16, 17 and 18-inch wheels, the Hatchback's unique color palette and aerodynamic aids such as a standard rear roofline spoiler make it recognizable at a glance. Available LED headlights with an Auto High-Beam System (AHB) feature and automatic windshield wipers on the Sport Touring trim further define the new model.

Exterior Styling

With just the right balance of form and function, utility and athleticism, the 2017 Civic Hatchback perfectly complements the current Sedan and Coupe body styles for Honda. Like those cars, which were introduced for model year 2016, in front the new Civic Hatchback features a chiseled appearance capped with Honda's distinctive "wing fascia and premium LED lighting (including available LED in-line headlights and integrated side-mirror mounted turn indicators on the Sport Touring trim). Fog lights come on all but the base LX model. Like other Civic models, the acoustic windshield is flush mounted to the cowl for improved aerodynamic efficiency and interior quietness; side glass is likewise flush with the roof pillars.

With its long wheelbase and flowing roofline, decisive body-side character lines and short front and rear overhangs, the Civic Hatchback's side profile is at once purposeful and powerful, sophisticated, sporty and innovative. Stainless steel side window trim (black on Sport trims) and the three alloy-wheel choices, from 16 to 18 inches in diameter - the largest ever available on a Civic (excluding Si models) - contribute to the substantial presentation.

In back, the Civic Hatchback uses its own interpretation of Honda's characteristic LED "light pipe taillights, a substantial flush-mounted rear window, and a wind-cheating spoiler mounted just above the window. On the Sport Touring trim, an additional rear lip spoiler rides just above the tailgate. The piece de resistance for the Euro-inspired Civic Hatchback is the large tailgate, sized to allow easy loading of bikes and backpacks, sports and camping equipment, electronics, musical equipment and even certain appliances.

Exterior Dimensions

The 2017 Civic Hatchback shares its 106.3-in wheelbase with the Civic Sedan for excellent ride comfort, outstanding second-row seating roominess and easy ingress and egress. A shorter rear body overhang compared to the Sedan reduces the overall length by 4.4 inches (177.9 in vs. 182.3 in, respectively), adding to the Honda Civic Hatchback's sporty appearance. A slightly taller overall height compared to the Civic Sedan (up 0.8 in for the Hatchback LX, EX and EX-L Navi, and up 0.6 in for the Sport and Sport Touring) contributes to both interior roominess and cargo storage capacity. Like the Civic Sedan and Coupe, flat under-covers and extensive aerodynamic detailing help to minimize drag and maximize fuel efficiency.

High-Strength Steel

Multiple steel grades are used in the Civic Hatchback's body construction to help achieve excellent overall vehicle dynamics, optimize safety performance, and lower noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Materials range from five different grades of steel, including premium hot-stamp steel and ultra-high-strength steel used in the unibody, to aluminum for the front bumper beam. All were chosen to achieve the best combination of strength, rigidity, dynamic performance and light weight. In total, 61 percent of the Civic Hatchback's body structure is composed of high-strength steel.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™)

As an integral part of the 2017 Civic Hatchback structure, Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body-structure enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. ACE utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, thus reducing the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. ACE channels frontal crash energy to both upper and lower structural elements, including the floor frame rails, side sills and A-pillars.

Crash Stroke

The ACE™ structure used on the Civic Hatchback features a crash stroke technology, developed by Honda engineers in the company's advanced safety research laboratory in Raymond. Ohio. With the crash stroke structure, in a frontal collision the lower section of the front vehicle frame hinges to direct the engine down and rearward, helping direct crash energy into the vehicle's floor while also minimizing cabin intrusion. This crucial piece of safety engineering effectively adds 80 mm (3.2 in) of additional energy-absorbing "crash stroke to the front of the vehicle.

Besides helping the Civic Hatchback aim for the highest ratings in the rigorous federal crash tests, the crash stroke structure enabled designers to develop the body design to feature a short front overhang and short hood-line for a unique and exciting appearance, excellent outward visibility and improved handling.

Body Rigidity

The benefits of the Civic Hatchback's unibody stiffness are numerous, including the ability to tune the suspension for superior ride and handling performance. The rigid body structure also directly results in a quieter and more comfortable ride experience for the passengers, with less NVH felt over a wide range of driving conditions. Some key advancements in body structure include the following:

• Under the Hood
  • A lower stiffener, located behind the engine on the front bulkhead, improves ride comfort.
• In the Unibody
  • Certain connection areas -- where the A-pillars meet the floor sills, and the B-pillars meet both the floor sills and roof rails - have been reinforced to improve handling performance. This has also contributed to reduced idle vibration and booming.
  • Large body panels are shaped using computer aided engineering (CAE) to reduce booming.
  • Gussets positioned inside the rear quarter areas of the unibody reduce road noise.
  • An internal rear structural ring stiffens the unibody for improved handling.
  • Short-pitch welding places spot welds 20 mm (0.8 in) apart in critical areas of the unibody, compared to 40 mm to 45 mm (1.6 in to 1.8 in) traditional spacing, increasing stiffness and durability.
• Underneath the Vehicle
  • The floor panel is made of 590-MPa high-strength steel to provide a lighter yet stronger overall structure.
  • Floor cross-members positioned under the driver and front passenger's seating area improve ride comfort.
  • A lateral cross-member and damper structure, located between the rear wheels, improves handling.
  • A cross-car brace, located at the front of the vehicle, improves handling.

Aerodynamics

The 2017 Civic Hatchback was designed to have class-leading aerodynamic performance, which helps improve both fuel efficiency and interior quietness. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to measure the car's efficiency during the design phase, followed by scale-model wind tunnel testing and finally by full-scale wind-tunnel testing. Detailed management of underbody and engine-room airflow, along with specific wheel designs, net further reductions in drag.

Specially shaped components at the front of the vehicle guide airflow through the radiator and into the engine's cold-air intake, while channeling the remaining airflow over, around and under the vehicle. Along with the narrow A-pillars and flush-mounted glass, these contribute to the Civic Hatchback's efficient passage through the air.

Behind the B-pillars, the body design is completely unique to the Civic Hatchback. Its higher rear roofline and shorter rear overhang lend an aggressive, sporty appearance while simultaneously increasing its versatility for carrying sports equipment or other cargo. A spoiler located at the rear edge of the roofline, above the rear window, helps airflow separate more cleanly, further improving aero efficiency.

Like the Civic Sedan and Coupe, the Civic Hatchback features the flattest underbody of any gasoline-powered Honda production vehicle. A molded under-panel is positioned directly beneath the front fascia, smoothly starting the rearward flow of air underneath the vehicle. An aluminum under-tray is positioned underneath the engine and transmission and features a cooling duct that allows ambient airflow to the hydraulic engine mount. Dual side under-panels further smooth airflow.

Lateral strakes located in front of the wheels and tires (8.5 inches wide in front for all trims, and 3.5 inches wide in the rear for EX and above trims) help deflect airflow around the tires for additional aerodynamic efficiency gains. Even the stamped steel exhaust silencers are aerodynamically shaped, eliminating the need for an under-cover at the rear of the vehicle. This reduces parts count, complexity and weight while helping to ensure optimal aerodynamic efficiency.

Softzone Technology

Like the Civic Sedan and Coupe, the new Civic Hatchback employs selectively applied "soft zone technology. In the Hatchback, separate parts are combined to create specially tempered areas, or soft zones, within an high-strength steel part to provide appropriate energy pathways necessary to absorb crash forces.

Side crash area

Located where the B-pillar joins the lower sill, a new built-in soft zone is designed to bend during a side collision, channeling crash forces away from the passenger compartment and into the B-pillar and lower sill. The soft zone's rated material strength is 780 MPa high-strength steel, compared to the much stronger 1500 MPa hot-stamp steel of the overall B-pillar and lower sill.

Rear crash area

As in the Civic Sedan, the rearward ends of the two rear unibody frame rails of the Hatchback each contain a pair of soft zones designed to fold in a controlled manner in the event of a rear impact, helping to attenuate crash energy. Special attention was paid to the location and design of body stiffeners in order to preserve safety performance despite a 5.9-inch shorter overhang compared to the sedan.

T-Direction Welding

Applied to the forward edge of the front door hinge pillars, just behind the front wheel openings, a new "T-direction welding technique is anticipated to help the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback earn top ratings in the rigorous Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) narrow offset frontal collision test, based on Honda internal testing. Instead of using lateral overlapping welded joints on the hinge pillars, which would be negatively affected by the wheel moving rearward and striking the pillar in an offset frontal collision, the hinge pillars instead use a longitudinal welded seam designed to withstand the sheer forces generated in such a collision.

Class-leading Forward Visibility

The A-pillar section on the 2017 Civic Hatchback is 18 mm (0.7 in.) narrower than on the previous-generation Civic, reducing the obstructed area by 11.6 percent, resulting in a 7.9 degree improvement in forward visibility. As a result, the new Hatchback offers a class-leading 84.3 degrees of forward visibility (the angle made by drawing lines from the driver's eye point to the outboard edges of the A pillars). Safety performance is maintained through the pillars' shape, the precise design of load pathways during a frontal collision or rollover and the use of 1500 MPa hot-stamped ultra-high-strength steel.

Walk Away Door Lock

Included on EX and above trims, the new Walk Away Door Lock feature automatically locks as follows: (1) when the driver leaves the vehicle; (2) when the key holder's distance from the vehicle exceeds 6.5 feet for two seconds; and (3) when no other key is detected inside the vehicle. An audible buzzer sounds and the hazard lights flash to confirm that the vehicle has locked. The Walk Away Door Lock feature is programmable, and may be turned on or off as the driver prefers.

Power Side Mirrors

The Civic Hatchback's body-colored power side mirrors are aerodynamically optimized to reduce wind noise and minimize turbulence. EX and above trims add heated side mirrors and the Sport Touring trim further adds integrated LED turn indicators. The side mirrors can be manually folded for greater convenience in tight parking situations.

Honda LaneWatch™

The Civic Hatchback EX and above trims include Honda's LaneWatch™ display that uses a camera located at the bottom the passenger-side exterior mirror to display a wide-angle view of the passenger side roadway on the Display Audio screen. The image appears when the right turn signal is activated, or when a button on the end of the turn signal stalk is pressed.

Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) Countermeasures

Extensive noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) countermeasures position the Civic Hatchback at the top of its competitive set. Strategically placed body sealants, acoustic separators inside the A-, B- and C-pillars, and a sound-insulating acoustic windshield are key.

Engine Compartment Isolation

Measures to isolate sound and heat emanating from within the engine compartment include dedicated front, side and rear hood seals, strategically placed heat baffles, a hood insulator panel, an engine under-cover, and dedicated insulation within the instrument panel. Inside the vehicle, a one-piece molded insulated carpet liner adds further to exceptional heat isolation and noise reduction for the Civic Hatchback.

Acoustic Windshield

As in the 2016 Civic Sedan, laminated acoustic glass is used for the Civic Hatchback's windshield to help reduce noise entering the cabin. Tuned specifically to attenuate wind-noise frequencies, the windshield glass uses an outer layer of 2.0 mm safety glass, a 0.7 mm thick middle layer of acoustic polyvinyl butyl (PVB), and a 1.8 mm safety-glass inner layer for a total thickness of 4.5 mm. This helps the Civic Hatchback place at the top of its class in wind-noise performance. The windshield also incorporates UV light-absorbing technology. In addition, the Civic Hatchback has 4.0 mm tempered front door glass and 3.5 mm tempered rear door glass. The one-touch power moonroof on the EX. EX-L Navi and Sport Touring trim uses 3.5 mm tinted and tempered glass.

Sound-absorbing Undercovers

Underneath the Civic Hatchback, along both sides of the passenger cabin, are absorptive undercovers (molded plastic on the LX and Sport, and fiber on the EX and above trims) that help mitigate road and wind noise. A special baffle plate located beneath the center of the floor pan, and felt fender inner liners on EX and above trims, further attenuate wind and road noise.

Body Sealing

The 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback has a high level of body sealing to dramatically reduce the levels of noise inside the vehicle. This includes weld seals and other sealers to reduce vibration and the transmission of noise.

Additional measures include:

• Pillar separators seal the hollow A-, B- and C-pillars to reduce the transmission of noise from the floor area into the passenger cabin.
• Triple door sealing utilizes 360-degree molded door seals to reduce wind noise and improve isolation.
• Door gap seals at the rear door edges join triple-sealed door openings and lower door-edge seals in keeping wind noise from entering the cabin.
• Eight air-leak reduction moldings and clips at key locations where the side windows slide into the side doors help reduce the possibility of audible air leaks occurring in these locations.
• Along with internal bracing, acoustic hole seals fill open areas inside the door structures, significantly reducing the amount of wind and road noise and vibration that can reach the cabin. The same Thinsulate™ material that is used in the doors is also used to reduce sound transmission through the roof and the body A- pillars.

Auto On/Off Headlights

All Civic Hatchback models feature auto-on/off headlights for greater convenience. The headlights are multi-reflector/projector-beam units on all Civic Hatchback models except the Sport Touring, which has auto-on/off LED headlights described below.

LED Lighting

Like other Civic models, all Civic Hatchback trims incorporate a wide range of light-emitting diode (LED) exterior lighting features, including standard LED daytime running lights (DRL), LED one-touch turn signals, and LED taillights, brake lights, license-plate light and center high-mounted stop light.

Sport Touring Lighting

The Civic Hatchback's Sport Touring trim includes LED low- and high-beam headlights. Arranged in a low, sleek and compact in-line display, the LED high-beams provide a longer and wider range of visibility during nighttime driving. The Sport Touring trim also includes LED turn signals integrated into the side mirror housings.

The LED lighting has several advantages beside improved visibility. The LEDs are both mercury free and lead free, benefiting the environment. They require less power to operate than traditional incandescent lighting, which helps fuel efficiency. The versatility of the LED arrays also contributes to the Civic Hatchback's sporty design. And finally, LED lights have a longer life and are maintenance free.

The Sport Touring trim also includes an Auto High-Beam System (AHB) function, a first for the Civic model.

Windshield Wipers

The Honda Civic Hatchback LX and Sport have 2-speed intermittent windshield wipers, while the Hatchback EX and above trims have variable intermittent windshield wipers. The Sport Touring trim has rain-sensing wipers. A new wiper motor assembly saves 3.08 pounds compared to the previous generation.

Smart Wipers

Laws in some states require drivers to turn on the headlights when the wipers are operating in the rain. In all trims, the new Civic Hatchback helps its driver comply with these laws by automatically illuminating the headlights when the wipers are activated in rainy conditions (with headlight switch in Auto).

Details include:

• A light sensor detects the ambient brightness and determines when to turn the headlights on or off, while also increasing the illumination of the wiper switch and instrumentation for good visibility.
• If rain is intermittent, the lights stay on for a predetermined interval before automatically turning off again.
• Operation is shown via an indicator on the instrument panel.
• The sensitivity can be controlled by a setting in the MID.

Rain Sensing Wipers

The Sport Touring trim includes rain-sensing wipers that automatically activate if water is detected on the windshield.

Smart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop

The Civic Hatchback EX and above trims include the upscale convenience of Smart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop. The system simplifies approaching, entering and operating the vehicle. To gain entry, the driver/passenger simply pulls either of front door handles while the remote in his or her possession.

Remote Engine Start

Remote engine start, on EX and above trims, enables the driver to start their vehicle remotely, thereby activating the climate control system with a target temperature of 72 degrees. The system will automatically operate the heater, front and rear defrosters, front heated seats (if equipped), heated side mirror, and air conditioning as needed.

The remote engine start feature is built into the key fob. To start the engine remotely, the owner presses the LOCK button and then holds the ENGINE button for a second. The vehicle's hazard lights will flash, indicating that the signal has been received. When the engine is started remotely, the wipers, lighting and audio systems remain off, and the security system remains set. The engine will run for up to 10 minutes after remote starting and can be extended by another 10 minutes using the same procedure.

Tailgate

The Civic Hatchback's manual tailgate features twin gas-charged hydraulic struts that ease opening and pull-down handle located on the left and right sides. The tailgate can be unlocked by pressing the unlock button on the keyless fob twice (first for driver's door only, second for all other doors and the tailgate), or the dedicated tailgate button on the fob once. It can also be opened using the button inside the driver's door. The rear aperture of the Hatchback body is specially reinforced to strengthen the tailgate opening, which is the largest opening on the vehicle body. This increased rigidity at this critical location improves ride and handling, as well as interior quietness. The tailgate automatically locks whenever the Civic Hatchback is locked.

Large Cargo Capacity

The 2017 Civic Hatchback has a wide and deep cargo area offering 25.7 cu. ft. (22.6 cu. ft. for Sport and Sport Touring trims) of storage volume with the second-row seats up, and up to 46.2 cu. ft.* of storage volume with the seats folded. This positions the vehicle at the top of its competitive set in total cargo volume. The storage area measures 31 inches tall, ranges from 40.5 inches at the wheel wells to 50 inches in width, and extends to 70 inches - nearly six feet - in length with the second-row seats folded. The floor and sides are carpeted to help protect cargo during transit, and also to help reduce road noise entering the passenger cabin. A removable floor panel hides the temporary spare tire, jack and wrench, and a cargo-area light provides illumination when the tailgate is open.

Side-Mounted Tonneau Cover

In a departure from the retractable cargo covers of most SUVs, crossovers and wagons, the retractable tonneau of the Civic Hatchback extends from side to side instead of front to rear. The primary benefit of this design is that when the second-row seats are folded down, the Civic Hatchback's tonneau housing does not intrude on the storage area as does a traditional retractable cargo cover's housing.

The user can change the tonneau operation from left to right or right to left, simply by removing the tonneau cover assembly and reinstalling it on the opposite side of the cargo area. The changeover takes just a few seconds, and no tools are required.

Exterior Colors

The 2017 Civic Hatchback is available in seven exterior colors including three metallic colors, three pearl colors, and one solid color. In keeping with the Honda Civic Hatchback's strong Euro character, the color palette is bold and revealing, complementing the body's performance-themed curves and angles. In particular, new to Honda and exclusive to the Civic Hatchback is Sonic Gray Pearl, a sports-oriented color that reflects the vehicle's dynamic image and personality.

Interior

As the latest model to join the 10th-generation Civic lineup, the all-new 2017 Civic Hatchback benefits from Honda's latest advances in spaciousness, smart design, comfortable fit and intuitive controls. Plus, its hatchback design gives it class-leading sedan-style passenger comfort coupled with added utility and versatility, making it an ideal fit for active lifestyles.

With 97.2 cubic feet of passenger cabin volume, the Civic Hatchback offers generous space and comfort. Class-leading forward visibility of 84.3 degrees is aided by ultra-thin A-pillars, and rear-seat passengers will appreciate front seats with a narrow upper profile (in the shoulder area) and compact headrests that lend the rear cabin a more open, airy feel.

The Civic Hatchback has a class-leading cargo capacity of 25.7 cubic feet (22.6 for Sport and Sport Touring) - spacious enough to easily accommodate several large golf bags. A low lift over height of just 26.7 inches and large tailgate opening help make loading easy. A clever side-mounted tonneau cover helps conceal belongings from view and can be positioned on either side of the cargo area as desired. All trims feature 60/40 split and folding rear seatbacks. Cargo capacity expands up to 46.2 cubic feet* with the rear seatbacks folded.

The Civic Hatchback brings an elevated level of comfort and convenience to an affordable, compact-class car, with numerous standard or optional premium features typically found in more expensive vehicles. The Civic Hatchback offers the latest in-vehicle connectivity and audio performance with a new generation of advanced technologies. Available features include a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen Display Audio interface with Android operating system, and an all-new Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ developed in cooperation with the experts at Garmin®. The Honda Civic Hatchback's Display Audio system is compatible with the Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ platforms, giving customers seamless integration of key smartphone features and functions, including smartphone-powered GPS navigation and voice-controlled search capabilities. Featuring standard Pandora® compatibility, streaming Bluetooth® audio and many other content choices, including available SiriusXM®, the Civic Hatchback offers a rich selection of entertainment options.

Interior Materials

The new Civic Hatchback interior features high-quality premium touches and upscale materials applied liberally throughout. Highlights include a soft-touch instrument panel upper surface, door pad deck seams and soft door upper panels. Fit, finish and materials have received close attention, and soft leather seating is standard on EX-L Navi and Sport Touring trims.

Interior Colors

The Civic's interior palette is sophisticated and sporty, and is offered in either black or ivory/black colors.

Interior Design

The new Civic Hatchback interior shares key styling cues with the Civic Sedan, blending a dynamic and wide layout with smoothly integrated technology features and-high quality materials. EX and above trims feature a full-color 7-inch Driver Information Interface (DII) display, and 7-inch color touchscreen Display Audio system with a clean and sleek appearance.

The Civic Hatchback has an open roomy feel with design features like sleekly styled front seatbacks that help give rear passengers a spacious, open feeling. With its hatchback design and 60/40 folding rear seatbacks, the Civic Hatchback interior is incredibly versatile with room for five people and a substantial amount of cargo. You can also mix cargo and passengers creatively to handle a variety of missions.

All important systems and controls in the Civic Hatchback are positioned within easy reach of the driver. Controls for the systems used most frequently - audio, cruise control, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, available navigation system with voice recognition and intelligent Multi-Information Display - are conveniently positioned on the steering wheel. The main instrumentation is an easy-to-read analog design, supplemented with digital and graphic displays. Typical of Honda interior design, the soft-touch switchgear of the Civic Hatchback is engineered to deliver a high-quality feel and positive action.

Interior Finish

The Honda Civic Hatchback's interior palette is sophisticated and coordinated and is offered in black or black/ivory color - fabric in the LX, Sport, and EX; leather in the EX-L Navi and Sport Touring. The Sport and Sport Touring models have a red-themed central display, carbon-look instrument panel accents, black headliner and sport/racing pedals; the Sport Touring models also has red-themed instrumentation.

Front Seats

The front bucket seats are designed to provide welcoming support for a wide range of body types, along with secure lateral support for aggressive cornering. An available adjustable thigh support for the driver's seat offers 14.1 degrees of tilt for the 8-way power seat. To help improve the forward view and create a feeling of openness for rear seat passengers, the front seatbacks have a narrow upper profile and compact headrests. The Civic Hatchback seats feature fabric seating surfaces in LX, Sport and EX trims, with leather-trimmed seats in the EX-L Navi and Sport Touring trims, using perforated leather on select areas of the front seats.

The driver's seat in LX, Sport and EX models is manually adjustable for fore-and-aft, seatback angle and height adjustment. The EX-L Navi and Sport Touring feature power-operated versions of the same adjustments, along with an adjustable thigh support, for a total of 8-way power adjustability. The Sport Touring adds a front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustability. Heated front seats are standard in the EX, EX-L Navi and Sport Touring. Heating includes both the seat bottom cushions and front seatbacks (in previous Civics, just the seat bottom was heated). The 3-level front seat heater controls are positioned within easy reach, just below the climate control system controls.

Folding Rear Seats with Available 2-Level Heating

The roomy second-row seating is designed for maximum comfort and versatility, with a folding seatback. The 60/40 split and folding design makes it easy to accommodate passengers or long cargo. Two-level adjustable rear heated outboard seat bottoms are standard in the Sport Touring model. Controls for the rear seat heaters are positioned within easy reach on the rear of the front center console.

Center Console

The Honda Civic Hatchback's interior offers a range of convenient storage features for the driver and passengers. The center console is specially engineered to offer a sporty appearance coupled with the versatile usability you might expect in an SUV. With the prevalence of smartphones in most people's lives, the console is engineered around a "tech center" theme. Up front, there is a 2-tier smartphone tray with a wire management.

An electronic parking brake replaces a conventional manual parking brake lever, freeing up more console space for a larger armrest and greater storage space. The main storage compartment is topped by a sliding, deeply padded armrest. A pair of cup holders are centrally located, and can accommodate large 42-ounce cups when the padded armrest is placed in the rearmost position. By sliding the adjustable cup holder rearward, there's space to accommodate even a large sports drink bottle. Inside the console, a small item tray slides fore and aft the full length of the console. With the cup holder removed, the console offers a class leading 7.2 liters of storage, enough to accommodate tablet computers and other large items.

Cargo Area

The Civic Hatchback's large, useful cargo area is the key to the car's day-to-day versatility. A cargo capacity of up to 25.7 cubic feet with seats up is the largest in class. For even more cargo space, the split-folding 60/40 rear seatbacks can be easily folded down to open up a voluminous 46.2 cu. ft. cargo area. The wide and long (front to rear) opening makes loading easy. A clever side-mounted tonneau cover stays out of the way when not in use, and is reversible so it can be positioned on either side of the cabin.

Steering Wheel

The steering wheel, leather-wrapped on EX-L Navi, Sport and Sport Touring trims, incorporates the most commonly used controls, allowing the driver to keep their hands on the wheel and their attention on the road. Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and audio system controls located on the left side of the steering wheel make it easy to scroll and select items that appear on the audio screen. Cruise control controls are on the right and Driver Information Interface (DII) controls are located on the left side. Models with Honda Sensing™ have LKAS and ACC controls located on the right side of the steering wheel as well. In all trims, the steering wheel offers manual tilt and telescopic adjustment.

CVT-equipped Sport and Sport Touring trims feature steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters to allow for a more spirited driving style when the driver desires.

Power Windows, Locks and Mirrors

Power windows are standard equipment on all Civic Hatchback models and include auto-up and -down operation on the driver's and front passenger's windows. Power door locks and power mirrors are also standard equipment on all models. EX, EX-L Navi and Sport Touring models include heated exterior mirrors and Smart Entry.

One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature

EX, EX-L Navi and Sport Touring models have a one-touch power moonroof with tilt feature that will fully open or close with a single touch of a switch.

Climate Control Systems

Like the Civic Sedan, the Civic Hatchback has a standard automatic climate control system. EX, EX-L Navi and Sport Touring trims include dual-zone operation, for the optimal comfort of both the driver and front-seat passenger. In addition to physical controls, the system incorporates climate control functions in the Display Audio touchscreen.

The new system features a refrigerant with a much lower GWP (Global Warming Potential). To help conserve energy, the system employs a new Variable Displacement Compressor (VDC). Unlike a conventional compressor which can only operate at 100-percent and must be switched on and off frequently to conserve fuel when the cooling load is relatively low, the VDC can vary its output based on the cooling needs, resulting in greater efficiency, reduced drag on the engine and smoother climate-control performance.

Sliding Sunvisors

To provide more flexible shading from the sun, all Civic Hatchbacks come standard with sliding sunvisors with a 3.9-inch range of motion. In EX and above trims, the visors have illuminated vanity mirrors.

Meters

The Honda Civic Hatchback LX and Sport trims have analog instrumentation with a large tachometer, flanked by a coolant-temperature gauge on the left and fuel-level gauge on the right. A digital speedometer is positioned in the center of the tachometer. EX and above trims have a central thin-film transistor (TFT) Driver Information Interface (DII) color display that depicts an analog tachometer, digital speedometer and additional selectable information. The Sport Touring trim has a unique red meter theme.

The gauge package progressively illuminates to give the driver a welcoming feel upon entry. When the door is first opened, the instrument lighting illuminates and then brightens progressively to 100-percent illumination when the ignition is switched on. The illuminated instrument panel then comes alive, indicating that the car is ready to go. At the end of the drive, the instrument lighting dims progressively.

Driver Information Interface (DII)

The Civic Hatchback's instrument panel provides important vehicle information via a Driver Information Interface (DII) positioned centrally in the meter panel. Controls positioned on the right side of the steering wheel allow the driver to cycle the DII display through multiple screens of information from sources including LKAS, ACC and more, when equipped. The Maintenance Minder™ system alerts the driver to upcoming maintenance needs via the DII and should a fault occur with the vehicle, specific warning information will appear. The display indicates when to change the oil, air cleaner, transmission fluid, spark plugs or coolant, as well as when to rotate the tires.

Engine Immobilizer

Complementing the remote entry system is a standard engine-immobilizer system. A special electronically coded key prevents the car from being started - even if a mechanical duplicate of the key is used. A transponder, built into the key, signals the immobilizer control unit that the key is genuine. If the car is hot-wired, or an unauthorized key is used, the engine will not start.

mart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop

The 2017 Civic Hatchback offers the upscale convenience of Smart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop.

Remote Keyless Entry

Remote keyless entry is standard equipment on all Civic Hatchback models. The wave key design (LX and Sport trims) has an integrated transmitter in the handle with lock, unlock, tailgate open and panic buttons.

Smart Entry

Smart Entry allows the driver to approach, open and use the tailgate without using a key or pressing a button on the remote. With the remote in his or her possession, the driver simply presses the release button and opens the tailgate. As a safety and convenience feature, the Smart Entry system will not allow the transmitter fob to be locked in the interior of the Civic Hatchback.

Push Button Start/Stop

In the Civic Hatchback EX and above, once the driver has opened the door and is seated, the driver simply pushes the START/STOP button positioned on the instrument panel while pressing the brake pedal to start the vehicle. Powertrain operation and certain electrical functions are ended when the START/STOP button is pressed again at the conclusion of the drive. For accessory mode, the driver simply presses the START/STOP button without pressing the brake pedal. The Civic Hatchback's START/STOP button features a pulsating light to help the driver more easily locate the button.

Auto On/Off Headlights

All Civic Hatchback models feature auto-on/off headlights for greater convenience. The headlights are multi-reflector/projector-beam units on all models except the Sport Touring, which has auto-on/off LED headlights. All models feature dramatic LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror

The EX-L Navi and Sport Touring models feature an electrochromic interior rearview mirror that automatically dims during nighttime driving to reduce glare from the headlights of following vehicles.

Electric Parking Brake (EPB)

The Civic Hatchback's Electric Parking Brake makes using the parking brake easier and more comfortable and frees up precious center console space for storage and other functions.

Hill Start Assist

The Hill Start Assist function prevents the vehicle from rolling when stopped on an incline.

5-Inch Display Audio System (LX, Sport)

The Civic Hatchback LX and Sport have a standard 160-watt AM/FM radio audio system with four door-mounted speakers and a USB port to allow the connection of other compatible devices. The system can play Pandora® content from a compatible device via the USB port, or wirelessly, via Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®. The audio system has a 5-inch (diagonal) display screen and conventional "hard" buttons and knobs to control the various functions. Illuminated steering wheel mounted controls are positioned within fingertip reach. This system includes four 6.7-inch diameter speakers, one in each front and rear door.

7-Inch Display Audio Touchscreen (EX, EX-L Navi)

EX and EX-L Navi trims feature a 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen with Android operating system to offer a wide range of useful features and capabilities. The intuitive and easy-to-use touchscreen lets users swipe, tap and pinch to control the vehicle's audio system, display settings and other advanced features. The 7-inch touchscreen is a special high-contrast, high definition IPS display with a high viewing angle for better legibility. The 180-watt audio system has eight speakers with four 6.7-inch full range speakers, one in each front and rear door, plus four 1.5-inch tweeters-also door-mounted.

The system offers most popular audio formats, including AM/FM, HondaLink@ content, Pandora®, Bluetooth® streaming audio, and compatibility with the Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ platforms. SiriusXM® and HD Radio® are included in the EX trim and above.

Icons resembling smartphone apps are displayed on the high-definition, capacitive touchscreen, making the interface intuitive and easy to use. Interfaces for standard internet-sourced music and media options, such as Pandora® can be displayed and controlled on the Display Audio interface, with the ability to create personalized stations, tap to "like" songs, and view album artwork directly from the touchscreen. Display Audio also integrates touch operation of the menu and return functions for a modern and sleek look.

The system can also be controlled with illuminated steering-wheel mounted controls, including a new touchpad control that enables an alphabetic search of a range of features using a vertical swiping motion. Search items appear on the color Driver Information Interface (DII) display located in the lower portion of the instrument display, just below the digital speedometer display. The system can also be controlled via voice commands, after pressing and releasing the steering-wheel-mounted talk button.

7-Inch Display Audio Touchscreen (Sport Touring)

Sport Touring models feature the 7-inch touchscreen display and premium audio system that includes a number of upgrades to the audio section. The total system output is increased to 540 watts, the most powerful in the segment, and the speaker count is increased from eight to 12. Premium 6.7-inch full-range speakers are positioned in each door and one 3.1-inch speaker in the instrument panel. Two 1.5-inch tweeters are positioned near the A-pillars, with two more in the rear doors, plus two more 3.1-inch speakers and a 7.9-inch subwoofer in the cargo area.

Driver Information Interface (DII)

All models with the exception of the LX and Sport feature the Driver Information Interface (DII) integrated into the operation of the 7-Inch Display Audio Touchscreen. The DII is positioned in the instrument display, just below the digital speedometer. The color TFT DII display puts a wide range of information in front of the driver where it's easy to see. The steering wheel mounted buttons and touchpad control make it easy to search among choices on the DII, and then make the desired selection.

1-Cable Connection

In the Honda Civic Hatchback EX and above trims, compatible iPhones and Android (with Android Auto app.) phones loaded with the compatible HondaLink app can be connected to the 1.5-amp USB port with a single USB cable (provided with the phone), to display navigation information on the 7-inch Display Audio Touchscreen.

Apple CarPlay™

Civic Hatchback EX models and above offer standard Apple CarPlay compatibility. By connecting the iPhone to the car using the phone's USB cable (supplied with the phone) and the Civic Hatchback's 1.5-amp USB port, CarPlay features can be accessed. (Note that the CarPlay system will not work using the USB port located inside the center console.)

CarPlay takes the most popular functions and features of the user's compatible iPhone and puts them on the Civic Hatchback's Display Audio touchscreen and DII display, positioned in the instrument cluster. You can get directions, send and receive messages, listen to audio books and music, all in a way that allows you to stay more focused on the road.

CarPlay features Siri voice control and is specially designed for typical driving scenarios. It also works with the Civic Hatchback's controls - both on the audio touchscreen and the steering-wheel mounted controls, so you don't need to pick up your phone. A curated selection of available CarPlay Apps have been designed for use in the Civic Hatchback and are specially designed to minimize the potential for driver distraction.

CarPlay includes access to Apple Maps, which can provide turn-by-turn directions, traffic conditions, and estimated travel time. CarPlay can also predict where you most likely want to go using addresses from your email, text messages, contacts, and calendars.

CarPlay is compatible with iPhones that feature the small Lightning connector, not older iPhones with the larger 30-pin connector.

Android Auto™

Civic Hatchback EX models and above offer standard Android Auto™ compatibility. By connecting a compatible Android phone to the car using the phone's USB cable (supplied with the phone) and the Civic Hatchback's 1.5 amp USB port, the Android Auto platform is enabled.

Android Auto puts some of your phone's most useful Apps on the Civic Hatchback's audio display and DII, positioned in the instrument cluster. You can get directions, send and receive messages, listen to audio books and music, all without the need to pick up your phone. Android Auto works with the car's controls - both on the audio touchscreen and the steering-wheel mounted controls - so it's simple and intuitive to use.

Android Auto's voice control is specially designed for typical driving scenarios. A curated selection of available Android Auto Apps are designed for use in the Honda Civic Hatchback, and are specially designed to minimize the potential for driver distraction.

Android includes access to Google Maps, which can provide turn-by-turn directions, live traffic conditions, lane guidance and more. CarPlay can also predict where you most likely want to go using addresses from your email, text messages, contacts, and calendars.

Android Auto is designed to work with Android phones running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.

HondaLink®

The Display Audio system with next generation HondaLink that is standard in EX models and above allows the owner's digital lifestyle to seamlessly integrate with the car and provides access to a world of cloud-based information. The all-new application-based platform connects customers to online content both inside and outside the car. The connection between the system and the user's smartphone is made through the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless interface. A HondaLink phone app provides convenient access for many services including location searches, local weather, messaging, Maintenance Minder alerts, service scheduling by phone, and access to the vehicle Owners Guide.

HondaLink Assist

An additional feature on Civic Hatchback EX and above is HondaLink Assist, which can help request emergency assistance for drivers. If a compatible phone is paired through Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, there is a cellular connection and an airbag deployment sensor is triggered, the system is designed to automatically attempt to notify an operator, report the car's current location, and allow occupants to talk directly to the operator. The operator can then contact emergency services if needed.

Siri Eyes Free

The Civic Hatchback EX and above trims integrate Apple's Siri Eyes Free mode imbedded in Apple CarPlay. Compatible iPhone® users will be able to operate Siri through familiar voice commands by pressing and holding the TALK button on the steering wheel for two seconds when their iPhone is paired via Bluetooth®. Using Eyes Free mode, Siri takes hands-free functionality even further and helps to minimize the potential for distractions by keeping the iOS device's screen from lighting up.

Owners can direct Siri to perform a number of specific tasks while they keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. Capabilities include:

• Send text messages and e-mails
• Read incoming text messages and emails
• Set up calendar entries, reminders, and alarms
• Check the weather
• Turn-by-turn voice navigation (when the audio system is set to Bluetooth® Audio or iPod mode)
• Sports scores and stock quotes

Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®

The Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® interface is designed to offer hands-free operation for many Bluetooth®-enabled mobile telephones. Standard on all Civic Hatchback models, the system wirelessly connects the driver's cell phone to the vehicle's audio system. This allows the driver to make or answer cell phone calls without removing hands from the steering wheel. The system is compatible with Bluetooth®-enabled cell phones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP).

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition and Honda HD Digital Traffic

Standard on EX-L Navi and Sport Touring trims, the integrated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, developed in cooperation with Garmin, offers many improvements, including enhanced graphics, live search, speed limit display, customized vehicle icons, 3D buildings and terrain, and more. The system includes free map database updates for up to five years (initial purchase plus one yearly update each year for four years). The system includes the HD Digital Traffic feature, which alerts the driver to current traffic conditions and can display alternate routes around gridlock. It features expanded coverage including many surface streets within the U.S., allowing the driver to choose faster, less congested routes. HD Digital Traffic is subscription-free.

The navigation system can be controlled by voice or through the 7-inch electrostatic touch-screen audio display utilizing its tap, pinch and swipe functionality. The voice-activation system can respond to more casual command phrases that require less user familiarization, in addition to the previous capability of being able to understand spoken city and street names. For example, a voice request for "Radio 98.3 FM" can now be spoken in approximately a dozen different ways ranging from "change the radio station to 98.3" to "98.3 FM." This logic applies to audio functionality of the audio/information screen. The navigation system can also be controlled by voice with conventional navigation commands like, "Find nearest Chinese restaurant" or "find nearest ATM."

The audio system is automatically muted when the "Talk" button is pressed. The voice-recognition technology allows the driver to simply speak city and street names aloud, and the system responds by displaying the matches available in the database. Points of interest on the map - such as restaurants or grocery stores - can be displayed with brand logo icons or you can have the system provide turn-by-turn navigation, all by voice command. The point-of-interest (POI) database includes telephone numbers that can be dialed by using the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system when the driver's cellular telephone is connected to the system.

USB Ports and Power Outlets

In LX trims, a 12-volt power outlet is positioned at the base of the center stack on the right of the lower storage tray, with a 1.0-amp USB port positioned on the left. EX and above trims retain the 12-volt power outlet, while the USB port on the left is upgraded to 1.5 amps, and a 1.0-amp USB port is added inside the console.

Powertrain

With advanced new turbocharged engines and new and updated manual and Continuously Variable Transmissions, the 2017 Civic Hatchback offers exceptional fuel efficiency and fun-to-drive performance. The Civic Hatchback builds on powertrain technology first introduced in the 2016 Civic Sedan line, advancing performance to new levels.

In LX, EX and EX-L Navi models which are designed to operate on regular unleaded fuel, the 1.5-liter 16-valve DOHC direct-injected turbocharged powerplant is rated at 174 horsepower at 5,500 (6MT) or 6,000 (CVT) rpm. Torque output is set at 162 lb-ft. between 1,700 and 5,500 rpm when equipped with the CVT. When equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission (LX) the torque rating increases to 167 lb-ft.

In Civic Hatchback Sport and Sport Touring models that are designed to benefit from premium unleaded fuel, output jumps to 180 horsepower at 5,500 (6MT) or 6,000 (CVT) rpm. Torque output crests at 162 lb.-ft. between 1,700 and 5,500 rpm when equipped with the CVT. For Sport models equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, the peak torque rating increases to 177 lb.-ft.

The highly efficient engines and transmissions, along with exceptional aerodynamics and low running resistance, result in impressive performance and fuel efficiency. The Civic Hatchback is rated by the EPA at 30/39/33 mpg (city/highway/combined) when equipped with the standard 6-speed manual transmission (LX and Sport). When equipped with the available Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the Civic Hatchback in LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims is rated by the EPA at 31/40/34 mpg. Sport and Sport Touring trims equipped with the available Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) are rated at 30/36/32 mpg.

Cylinder Block and Crankshaft

The Civic Hatchback's 1.5-liter inline four has a lightweight die-cast aluminum block with individual reinforced main bearing caps to minimize weight. Cast-in iron cylinder liners provide long-lasting durability. Each journal on the lightweight forged-steel crankshaft is micropolished to reduce internal friction.

Pistons and Connecting Rods

The 1.5-liter engine's pistons have "cavity-shaped" crowns that help maintain stable combustion and contribute to improved efficiency. The lightweight pistons have a carefully optimized skirt design to minimize reciprocating weight, which minimizes vibration and increases operating efficiency. The pistons are cooled by twin oil jets directed at the underside of each piston crown. Ion-plated piston rings help reduce friction for greater operating efficiency. Lightweight, high-strength steel connecting rods are heat-forged in one piece and then "crack separated" to create a lighter and stronger rod with an optimally fitted bearing cap.

Cylinder Head and Valvetrain

The direct-injected Honda Civic Hatchback 4-cylinder turbocharged engine has a lightweight pressure-cast aluminum alloy DOHC cylinder head. With exhaust ports cast directly into the cylinder head, the need for a traditional separate exhaust manifold is eliminated, reducing engine weight and simplifying the assembly.

A low-friction, silent-chain drives dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. The cam drive is maintenance free throughout the life of the engine. To help further reduce weight, new thin-wall hollow camshafts are used.

To benefit fuel efficiency, emissions and power, the turbo engine utilizes sodium-filled exhaust valves. A hollow chamber within the valve contains sodium that is cooled by the exhaust port cooling jacket. As the chamber reaches close to the valve head, the sodium helps to cool the entire valve. Since the valve is internally cooled it doesn't need the enriched fuel mixture that is generally used in turbo engines to help cool the exhaust valve. The resultant leaner mixture reduces emissions, increases fuel efficiency and helps increase power.

The cylinder head includes small M12 sparkplugs, down from the more common M14, to save space and weight. The head also includes direct-injection multi-hole fuel injectors with a small-diameter bore. Higher-pressure direct injection optimizes fuel atomization, allowing for more efficient combustion. To provide a high-tumble intake charge that further enhances combustion efficiency, both the intake port and piston crown have special designs.

The Honda Civic Hatchback turbo engine features Variable Valve Timing Control (VTC) that can vary the timing of both the intake and exhaust camshafts independently to best suit the driving conditions. Under light loads, valve overlap can be increased to reduce pumping losses and improve fuel efficiency. When engine speed is low and engine load is large, such as during initial acceleration, the amount of overlap is increased to boost the scavenging effect, which improves torque and responsiveness. When engine speed is high and engine load is also high, such as during full-throttle acceleration, the amount of valve overlap is reduced to increase engine output by improving both intake and scavenging.

Direct Injection System

The direct-injection system enables increased torque across the engine's full operating range along with higher fuel efficiency and low emissions. Multi-hole injectors deliver fuel directly into each cylinder (not to the intake port, as in conventional port fuel injection designs), allowing for more efficient combustion. The system features a compact, high-pressure, direct-injection pump that allows both high fuel flow and pulsation suppression, while variable pressure control optimizes injector operation.

Low Inertia Mono Scroll Turbo System with Electric Wastegate

The turbocharged Civic engine employs a small-diameter, low-mass turbine for maximum responsiveness. The Mono scroll housing design helps the turbo build boost even at relatively small throttle openings and low rpm. The electrically actuated wastegate allows boost pressure to be precisely controlled.

A large low-restriction intercooler is positioned low in the front of the car where it receives unobstructed airflow when the vehicle is in motion. Intake air travels from the air filter, to the turbo compressor, on to the intercooler, then to the engine's intake ports. The intercooler helps reduce the temperature of air entering the engine, making it denser for greater performance. To reduce weight, the turbo system is plumbed with rigid, lightweight resin composite inlet pipes to carry intake air to and from the intercooler.

ECON Mode

Every 2017 Civic Hatchback is equipped with a green ECON button located on the center console near the shift lever. Activating ECON mode improves fuel efficiency by modifying throttle mapping, HVAC operation and shifting schedule in CVT models. The Drive-by-Wire throttle system provides more gradual response, and to save additional energy, the climate control's fan speeds are lowered incrementally and other climate control system characteristics are altered based on the conditions.

Friction Reducing Technology

All Civic Hatchback engines make use of new friction-reducing technologies designed to improve engine efficiency:

• The outer skirts of the lightweight aluminum pistons feature a low-friction molybdenum coating applied in a dot pattern
• Plateau honing of the cylinder walls removes microscopic high points to further reduce friction while improving the long-term wear characteristics of the engine.
• Low viscosity oil (0W-20)
• Other contributors to overall operating efficiency are a special 2-stage oil pump relief valve, low-friction oil seals, special low-drag piston ring design, low-friction cam chain and a lightweight crankshaft.

Drive-by-Wire Throttle System

The Civic Hatchback's Drive-by-Wire throttle system replaces a conventional throttle cable with smart electronics that "connect" the accelerator pedal to a throttle valve inside the throttle body. The result is less under-hood clutter and lower weight, as well as quicker and more accurate throttle actuation. Plus, a specially programmed "gain" rate between the throttle pedal and engine offers improved drivability and optimized engine response to suit specific driving conditions.

Exhaust System

The Civic LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims use a single-pipe exhaust system for light weight and simplicity. Unique exhaust silencers and dual center-mounted outlets help contribute to the added power output of the Sport and Sport Touring models.

100,000+/- Mile Tune-up Intervals

The Civic Hatchback's powerplant requires no scheduled maintenance for 100,000+/- miles or more, other than periodic inspections and normal fluid and filter replacements. The first tune-up includes water pump inspection, valve adjustment, and the installation of new spark plugs.

Maintenance Minder™ System

To eliminate unnecessary service stops while ensuring that the vehicle is properly maintained, the Civic Hatchback has a Maintenance Minder™ system that continually monitors the vehicle's operating condition. When maintenance is required, the driver is alerted via a message on the Multi-Information Display (MID) on the LX and Sport trims or Driver Information Interface (DII) on EX and above trims.

The Maintenance Minder™ system monitors operating conditions such as oil and coolant temperature along with engine speed to determine the proper service intervals. Depending on operating conditions, oil change intervals can be extended to a maximum of 10,000 miles, potentially sparing the owner considerable expense and inconvenience over the life of the vehicle. The owner-resettable system monitors all normal service parts and systems, including oil and filter, tire rotation, air-cleaner, transmission fluid, spark plugs, coolant, brake pads and more. To reduce the potential for driver distraction, maintenance alerts are presented only when the ignition is first turned on, not while driving.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

The Civic Hatchback's available Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) offers smooth and predictable gear ratio transitions and excellent acceleration matched with efficient low-rpm cruising. The CVT is comprised of an engine-driven torque converter that in turn drives two variable-width pulleys connected by a steel belt. With its angled inner faces, the belt can circle the angled pulley faces at varying diameter depending on the pulley width, which alters the effective ratio between the pulleys. Since there are no steps in the pulley faces, the range of possible gear ratios is essentially infinite. This ultrafine control of the gear ratio is the key to the CVT's greater efficiency over a conventional automatic transmission with a limited number of discrete gear ratios. Instead of approximating the correct ratio for the conditions like a conventional automatic does, the CVT can precisely select the optimum ratio from moment to moment without steps or slippage. Computer control of the transmission allows the ratio between the pulleys to be altered almost instantly to best suit the driving conditions and accelerator pedal setting.

As is the case with the Civic Sedan, the Civic Hatchback's CVT is an evolution of the CVT transmission that is offered in Accord 4-cylinder models. In this application, the transmission's final gear ratio is 4.69 percent taller than the Accord CVT to allow for lower-rpm cruising. A new turbine twin-damper design for the torque converter provides tighter control and helps mitigate turbo lag.

G-Design Shift Feature

The Honda Civic Hatchback's CVT is designed to provide the optimum gear ratio for the driving conditions, and to offer a more natural driving feel than some previous CVT transmissions that may have something of a disconnected "rubber-band" feel compared to a conventional automatic transmission.

The CVT has a new generation of special G-design shift logic that is designed to offer more immediate acceleration response than either conventional automatics or other CVT designs. When abruptly applying power from a steady-state cruising speed, the CVT immediately sends power to the drive wheels while simultaneously adjusting the gear ratio (seamlessly and progressively downshifting) to smoothly bring the engine to its horsepower peak in a linear way.

By comparison, a conventional automatic is slower to respond and loses time making multiple downshifts. Since the automatic transmission has a limited number of separate, discrete ratios, even when fully downshifted, it can only approximate the optimum engine rpm as speed increases. This cuts into acceleration.

During full throttle acceleration, the new generation of G-Design shift logic employs stepped ratios as the vehicle speed increases. This helps give the transmission a more "connected" feel as the engine rpm and vehicle speed increase together. This stepped operation also improves acceleration performance incrementally.

CVT Automatic Modes

The transmission can be operated in three different fully automatic forward modes with the console-mounted straight-gate shifter. The D mode is ideal for most driving situations, and combines fuel efficiency with smooth operation and responsive power when needed. The S mode is for more performance-oriented driving, and features more aggressive transmission mapping to keep engine rpm higher for greater acceleration and response as well as increased engine braking. The L mode is ideal for situations when additional engine braking is desired, such as in mountainous driving.

Steering-Wheel Mounted Paddle Shifters

Whether in D or S position, special transmission logic programming allows the use of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, which are standard on the Sport Touring trim of the Civic Hatchback and CVT equipped Sport models. When the driver operates the paddle shifters while in Drive, the transmission responds to the driver's shift command by selecting one of the available seven fixed ratios, and then returns to its normal fully automatic Drive mode if further paddle shift inputs are not made within a short time. This special logic makes it easy for the driver to command a quick downshift without leaving the convenience of Drive mode.

6-Speed Manual Transmission

A 6-speed manual transmission (6MT) is standard on the Civic Hatchback LX and Sport trims. The unit offers smooth and precise shift feel and great efficiency. Compared to the 5-speed manual transmission it replaces in earlier Civics, the 6-speed transmission has been engineered to deliver state-of-the-art performance and shift action, with reduced internal friction, tighter internal tolerances and improved synchronizers. The transmission also has a more rigid aluminum exterior case, higher-capacity ball bearings, stiffer gear shafts, and greater torque capacity. Refinements to the shift linkage and selector mechanism produce a precise and smooth gear lever shift action. A new constant-mesh helical reverse gear mechanism significantly reduces noise when reverse is selected. A reverse lockout feature prevents the transmission from accidentally being shifted into reverse while the car is moving forward.

Chassis

Based on the 10th generation Civic platform, the 2017 Civic Hatchback's chassis is specially tuned and adapted for its role as a nimble, versatile and, most importantly, fun-to-drive compact car. The sophisticated front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension utilize specially tuned low-friction dampers, while the front stabilizer bar is upgraded from the Sedan's unit. The result is crisper turn-in and flatter cornering for the Civic Hatchback. In addition, the Hatchback's dual-pinion, variable ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS) uses proprietary software algorithms that further contribute to its direct, driver-oriented feel.

Like the Civic Sedan, the Civic Hatchback chassis includes front fluid-filled suspension bushings for improved ride quality and isolation from road noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The EX, EX-L Navi, Sport and Sport Touring trims add rear fluid-filled suspension bushings for further ride and handling refinement. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control and a 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist add to the Hatchback's capability. Straight Driving Assist reduces steering effort when driving on sloped or crowned roads, while Agile Handling Assist uses the brakes to improve both turning response and cornering ability. An Electric Parking Brake (EPB), Automatic Brake Hold and Hill Start Assist add convenience in traffic or on hills.

All Civic Hatchback trims feature aluminum alloy wheels as standard equipment, with diameters ranging from 16 inches on the LX trim to 17 inches on the EX and 18 inches on the Sport and Sport Touring. All-season tires ensure responsive performance and versatility in a wide range of road and weather conditions, while an indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses the ABS sensors and advanced software to determine when a tire is low on pressure.

Front and Rear Suspension

The 2017 Civic Hatchback's suspension delivers highly agile and fun European-inspired handling. The system uses a combination of front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link with a rigid subframe, and features specially tuned dampers with larger bodies and low-friction bushings that enhance the car's sporty character while also improving ride comfort. Using a strut-style front suspension improves the room available for crash reinforcement. Meanwhile the multi-link rear suspension provides outstanding handling characteristics and ride quality, while also helping to maximize second-row seating and cargo space. Front and rear stabilizer bars on all trims improve turn-in response while reducing body roll during cornering. The stabilizer bars are bonded to their mounting bushings and use low-friction connecting links for smoother operation.

MacPherson Strut Front Suspension

The MacPherson strut front suspension is engineered to provide inspired handling performance and a responsive feel for the driver. Specially calibrated geometry ensures a high degree of quickness and precision, smoothness and stability. The lower suspension arms are connected to the subframe and to the body via fluid-filled bushings, which provide the ideal combination of handling responsiveness and precision, along with maximum isolation from road noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). All front suspension arms and the front hub carriers are steel, and all Civic Hatchbacks use a tubular front stabilizer bar.

Multi-Link Rear Suspension

The multi-link rear suspension includes stamped-steel arms, cast-aluminum hub carriers and a stabilizer bar. Mounted on a rigid subframe, the rear suspension provides agile handling, both during normal driving and in emergency maneuvers, together with a flat ride. The trailing arms are located on the unibody for exceptional control of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) while maintaining precise handling. All Civic Hatchbacks use a solid rear stabilizer bar for crisp turn-in and body roll control.

Fluid-Filled Suspension Bushings

Like the other Civic models, the Civic Hatchback's suspension uses fluid-filled bushings to provide superior ride isolation as well as chassis vibration control. All Honda Civic Hatchback models utilize front fluid-filled bushings and the EX, EX-L Navi, Sport and Sport Touring trims add rear fluid-filled bushings. These bushings are specifically tuned to provide minimum vibration transfer to the occupants, further reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

In front, the lower control arms pivot in the fluid-filled bushing, which is designed to help absorb road harshness and vibration while still retaining the exacting precision required for sharp, nimble handling. For the front suspension, a specially ventilated under-cover allows airflow to cool the bushings, ensuring more consistent performance in all ambient temperature conditions, as well as enhanced long-term durability.

Dual Pinion Variable Ratio Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS)

The Electric Power Steering (EPS) incorporates dual pinion gears and a variable gear ratio for steering feel, performance and comfort that is unsurpassed in the class. Compared to a traditional single-pinion steering system, the dual pinion EPS utilizes the physical steering input from the driver as well as from a supplemental electric motor. A non-contact torque sensor measures the driver's steering effort and an ECU determines how much electric motor assist to add, with the result being seamless, natural feeling steering in all situations.

The steering ratio is variable over a 17-percent range with a final full off-center ratio of 10.93:1 (11.12 for Sport and Sport Touring trims). This provides a quick 2.2 turns lock-to-lock for the LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims (2.1 turns lock-to-lock for Sport and Sport Touring trims), enabling easy parking and maneuvering. Although the Civic Hatchback shares its EPS hardware with the Civic Sedan, the Hatchback is tuned to yield higher steering effort on center and smoother initial turn-in, resulting in a more driving-enthusiast oriented feel.

Also contributing to the enhanced steering performance and feel of the Civic Hatchback is a high level of stiffness for the steering mount, and a large 30 mm steering column diameter.

Straight Driving Assist

Straight Driving Assist reduces the steering effort required when driving on a sloped or crowned road. When the Straight Driving Assist system detects that steering effort is being applied to keep the car driving along a slope, the Electric Power Steering system applies motor assist. This reduces the muscle effort required to maintain the desired direction on the sloped road to the same level as is required on a flat road.

4-wheel Disc Brakes with ABS, EBD and Brake Assist

The Civic Hatchback is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist as standard equipment. The system utilizes a large-diameter master cylinder to achieve a short-travel, firm pedal. This results in a comfortable and refined braking feel at low speeds, predictable and easy operation on the highway, a sporty, fun-to-drive feel on winding roads, and reassuring high-performance stopping in emergency situations.

The ventilated front brakes rotors are 11.1 inches in diameter (0.9-inch rotor thickness) and are clamped by single-piston brake calipers. The rear disc brakes incorporate 10.2-inch diameter solid rotors (0.4-inch rotor thickness) paired with single-piston brake calipers. The low-friction design of the brake calipers reduces energy losses when the brakes are not in use, directly improving fuel efficiency.

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is an Electronic Stability Control system that works in conjunction with the Civic Hatchback's Drive-by-Wire™ throttle and its 4-channel ABS systems to enhance control capability while the vehicle is accelerating, braking, cornering or when the driver makes a sudden maneuver.

VSA also provides a limited-slip differential effect for the driving wheels by applying braking force to a slipping wheel, thereby redirecting driving force to the wheel with more traction. While the driver can reduce the traction control effectiveness allowing more wheel slip during stuck conditions by pressing the VSA button, ABS remains fully operational at all times.

Agile Handling Assist

Standard on all Civic Hatchback trims, Agile Handling Assist selectively uses the vehicle's brakes to improve initial turning response and overall cornering ability. Agile Handling Assist utilizes brake vectoring to improve corner traceability and promote a confident handling feel. By applying braking force to the inside wheels during cornering at high lateral G, the system creates a yaw moment, thus generating more turning force and reducing understeer.

Hill Start Assist

The Hill Start Assist function helps to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when the driver switches from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal while the vehicle is stopped on a hill. Hill Start Assist automatically activates when the vehicle senses a certain incline and is fully stopped in any forward gear when facing up hill or reverse gear when facing downhill. The system uses a longitudinal G-sensor along with a wheel speed sensor to control the hydraulic brake modulator.

Electric Parking Brake (EPB)

The standard Electric Parking Brake (EPB) is simpler, more convenient and comfortable to use than a traditional parking brake. The EPB also frees up center console space, allowing a higher console and an extended armrest length.

Engaging the parking brake now requires only a pull on a switch on the center console. To release the parking brake, the driver simply presses on the accelerator pedal (while the seatbelt is buckled) when the transmission is in Drive or Reverse (CVT models) or else pushes on the parking brake switch while operating the brake pedal.

Automatic Brake Hold

When activated, Automatic Brake Hold retains brake pressure when the vehicle comes to a stop such as at a traffic light or in heavy traffic. This frees the driver from continually pressing the brake pedal to maintain the vehicle in a stopped position until the driver presses the throttle pedal.

Operating the system requires two simple actions from the driver:

• Activating/deactivating the system via a switch on the center console
• Pressing on the brake pedal until the vehicle comes to a stop

Once these steps are taken, Automatic Brake Hold will indicate engagement and then maintain brake pressure when the vehicle has come to a stop, even if the driver later releases the brake pedal. A green "Brake Hold" icon on the instrument panel illuminates to show that the system is functioning. The Civic 5-Door then remains stopped - even on a hill - until the driver presses the accelerator pedal. At this point Automatic Brake Hold releases the brakes and the vehicle resumes normal braking function.

Wheels and Tires

The Civic Hatchback LX rides on P215/55R16 tires mounted on 16 x 7.0-inch aluminum alloy wheels, while EX trims are equipped with P215/50R17 tires and 17 x 7.0-inch aluminum alloy wheels. For even sportier handling, Civic Hatchback Sport and Sport Touring trims use P235/40R18 tires and 18 x 8.0-inch aluminum alloy wheels. All tires carry an all-season M+S rating, making them suitable for year-round use in all weather and road conditions.

Developed cooperatively with Honda engineers, the tires help reduce rolling resistance while also helping to improve both ride quality and handling. With low unsprung weight, they also allowed the engineers greater control of suspension tuning, which further improves ride and handling characteristics.

Space-Saving Spare Tire

For all Honda Civic Hatchback trims, the spare tire is a space- and weight-saving temporary unit that is mounted under a carpeted floor in the cargo area.

Low-Friction Wheel Bearings

As in other Civic models, the Civic Hatchback's wheel hubs feature new low-friction bearings that measurably reduce rolling resistance, which directly contributes to improved fuel efficiency.

Fuel Tank

The 12.4-gallon fuel tank and fuel lines are molded of high-density polyethylene for low weight, freedom from corrosion, impact resistance and fuel vapor losses. The tank and filler pipe are formed as a single unit, reducing weight and complexity, while further improving safety in the event of a collision. Additionally, the tank is positioned ahead of the rear wheels to help guard against collision damage. A high-efficiency fuel pump is housed inside the tank, and the fuel filter is a lifetime design that never needs replacement. An integrated baffle system positioned inside the tank reduces the sound of fuel sloshing.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Like the 2016 Civic Sedan, the 2017 Civic Hatchback incorporates Honda's latest active safety, passive safety and driver-assistive features, including available Honda Sensing™ technology. The Civic Hatchback has earned a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is anticipated to earn a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with Honda Sensing.

Active safety features include a suite of Honda Sensing™ features that can detect and help avoid a potential collision. In the Sport Touring trim, an Auto High-Beam System (AHB) is offered for the first time on a Honda Civic. When set to Auto, the high-beams are automatically selected until an integrated camera detects an oncoming or preceding vehicle in the vicinity, when the system automatically switches to low beams.

Passive safety begins with the Civic Hatchback's advanced unibody engineering and construction, which, like the Civic Sedan, includes the most high-strength steel (61-percent) in model history. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and energy-dispersing crash stroke front frame rails are employed, and additional passive-safety features include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags with rollover sensor.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure

Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body-structure enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions by distributing crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle.

Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Design

Structures in the front of the 2017 Civic Hatchback are designed to help absorb energy in the event of a collision with a pedestrian. Research by Honda shows that the following features can dramatically improve a pedestrian's chance of survival if struck by a moving vehicle.

Specific pedestrian head injury mitigation features include:

• Hood is designed to deform if contact is made with either an adult or a child pedestrian
• Sufficient clearance exists between the hood and hard engine parts, allowing the hood to deform if impacted by a pedestrian
• Windshield base has a unique section structure for efficient impact energy absorption
• Energy-absorbing fender mounts and supports
• Breakaway windshield wiper pivots
• Deformable hood hinges

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is an Electronic Stability Control system that works in conjunction with the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle and the 4-channel ABS systems to enhance control capability while the vehicle is accelerating, braking, cornering or when the driver makes a sudden maneuver. VSA functions by applying brake force to one or more wheels independently while also managing the throttle, ignition and fuel systems to help the vehicle maintain the driver's intended path of travel.

VSA also provides a limited-slip differential effect for the front wheels by applying braking force to a slipping wheel, thereby redirecting driving force to the wheel with more traction. By pressing the VSA button, the driver can temporarily reduce the traction control effectiveness, allowing more wheel slip during stuck condition. ABS remains fully operational at all times.

Brake Assist

A function of the VSA® system, Brake Assist recognizes emergency or hard braking situations and almost instantly applies added braking force to ensure maximum stopping force, an action that can help shorten braking distance.

Advanced 4-Channel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution

Like other Civic models, the Civic Hatchback is fitted with 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel anti-lock braking (ABS). The ABS system also incorporates Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) circuitry that automatically proportions front-to-rear brake force based on the dynamic load on each wheel. Large front brake disc dimensions and a large master cylinder provide excellent stopping performance and pedal feel.

Seatbelts

Three-point seatbelts are standard for all seating positions. The front seatbelts are equipped with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners and load-limiting retractors to help mitigate injuries in a frontal collision.

Dual-stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags

Both the driver and front passenger are protected by advanced front airbags (SRS) that incorporate dual-stage and multiple-threshold activation technology. If deployed, these airbags are capable of being inflated at different rates depending on crash severity, seatbelt usage and other factors. Like other Honda vehicles, the driver's front airbag is located in the steering wheel while the passenger airbag is located on the top of the dash. When deployed, the passenger airbag inflates upward and then rearward to maximize its protective potential while reducing the likelihood of injuries caused by airbag deployment.

Driver's Spiral Airbag

The Civic Hatchback incorporates spiral stitching into the driver's front airbag. The spiral nature of the airbag promotes early restraint and maintains a constant pressure by reducing volume early and maximizing volume later in deployment.

Front Passenger's Safety Vent Airbag

The passenger's front airbag in the Civic Hatchback features a new safety vent system that increases safety for the front passenger in a frontal collision involving an airbag deployment. If the passenger is sitting "out of position" - such as leaning forward in the pathway of the airbag deployment - the auxiliary vents remain open, directing a significant amount of gas out and away from the occupant. As a result, the potential for injury from the airbag striking an out-of-position passenger is reduced. However, if the passenger is correctly seated, the airbag has an internal tether that will close the auxiliary vents at the necessary time to provide optimal occupant restraint.

Driver and Front Passenger Side Airbags

Side airbags mounted in the outboard area of each front seatback are designed to help provide pelvic and thorax protection for the driver and front passenger in the event of a severe side impact. In all 2017 Civic Hatchback models, the side airbags deploy in a manner that helps mitigate the risk of injury to a smaller seat occupant.

Side Curtain Airbags

All outboard seating positions are protected by side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor system. In the event of a severe side impact, the side curtain airbags deploy from modules in the roof, providing a significant level of head protection in the window area. In the unlikely event of a rollover, a roll-rate sensor along with multiple G sensors trigger airbag deployment. The side curtain airbags will also deploy and provide head protection in frontal impacts as necessary. For example, small overlap impacts, where the front corner of the vehicle collides with a solid object.

In the case of a rollover, the side curtain airbags on both sides of the vehicle will deploy. However, in the event of a sufficient side impact that does not result in a rollover, only the airbags on the impacted side of the vehicle will deploy. The airbag maintains full inflation for approximately six seconds after inflation to allow for the increased duration of a rollover accident.

Whiplash Mitigation Front Seat Design

Both front seats are designed to help mitigate the severity of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact by efficiently dispersing forces against the occupant as the seatback cushion compresses relative to the occupant's head. The seatback springs are optimized so that in a rear crash, when the seatback is pushed forward into the occupant, the seat will absorb the occupant's mass in manner that can help minimize the severity of a whiplash injury.

Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH)

Both of the second-row outboard seating positions on all Civic Hatchbacks are equipped with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat-mounting system. Tether anchors are provided the remaining middle seating position.

Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The Civic Hatchback's indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses wheel-speed data collected by the ABS system to determine when the air pressure in one tire drops below the recommended minimum. When this occurs, a symbol illuminates on the instrument panel to warn the driver.

Multi-Angle Rearview Camera

All 2015 and newer Honda models, including the 2017 Civic Hatchback, incorporate a multi-angle rearview camera1. The camera can show a top view, normal or wide view when the transmission is in Reverse, based on the driver's selection. On LX and Sport trims, the camera display is viewable on the 5-inch color LCD screen. On EX, EX-L Navi and Sport Touring trims, the view is displayed on the 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen. Additionally, the LX and Sport trims feature static guidelines that help the driver better judge distances, while EX and above trims have dynamic guidelines that project the vehicle's future path based on the driver's steering inputs.

Honda Sensing™

Honda Sensing™ helps provide greater awareness of driving conditions around the vehicle, providing warnings to the driver and, under certain conditions, aiding the driver in avoiding or mitigating the severity of a collision. Honda Sensing™ is available on the Honda Civic Hatchback LX, EX and EX-L Navi and is included as standard equipment on the Sport Touring trim.

Honda Sensing™ features include the following:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS™)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW) - Integrated with CMBS
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) - Integrated with RDM
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow (LSF)

Collision Mitigation Braking System™

All Civic Hatchback models with Honda Sensing™ offer the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), one of the most sophisticated driver-assistive technologies available. A millimeter wave radar unit, located behind the front grille, and monocular camera, located between the rearview mirror and windshield, scans traffic conditions ahead of the vehicle.

When the system determines a collision is possible with a detected vehicle, the integrated Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system's visual and audible alerts prompt the driver to take corrective actions. The visual alert appears on the Multi-Information Display (MID). If the situation is not resolved, CMBS can apply different levels of automatic braking action to help reduce vehicle speed and eventual collision forces, and therefore to help reduce the severity of a collision if the driver doesn't take corrective action on their own. The radar unit and camera work simultaneously and cooperatively to control the VSA modulator, which initiates any required braking.

Due to the effectiveness of its monocular camera, CMBS can recognize shapes and differentiate between a vehicle and a pedestrian, warning the driver in each case.

It is important to note that CMBS cannot detect all objects ahead, nor is it intended to replace the driver's assessment of traffic conditions and control of the vehicle. The driver must intervene in certain situations, and must always be attentive when using the system. Although in many cases CMBS will stop the vehicle, it is not intended to apply enough braking force to prevent all collisions. Based on the conditions, the system also may not perform all visual- and audible-alert stages, and may instead automatically engage the brakes if the system deems it necessary. CMBS may be turned off by pressing the CMBS button on the left side of the dash.

Forward Collision Warning - Integrated with CMBS

Integrated with CMBS, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses the monocular camera and millimeter wave radar to detect vehicles ahead and to determine whether a collision is likely. This helps reduce the stress of driving in traffic, while also contributing to an increased level of passive safety.

If the FCW system detects a vehicle in front of the Civic Hatchback and then determines that a collision may occur (due to a speed differential between the two vehicles), it will trigger visual and audible alerts for the driver. These include a "BRAKE" message on the Multi-Information Display (MID), and a series of beeps to alert the driver to apply the brake pedal. The FCW system will not automatically brake, and the driver remains responsible for safely operating the vehicle and avoiding collisions. If the driver doesn't respond to the FCW warnings, however, the CMBS is triggered into operation.

Drivers may adjust the distance at which FCW alerts occur by pressing the "SETTINGS" button, selecting "Vehicle Settings," and then choosing "Driver Assist System Setup" and the "Forward Collision Warning Distance" option. At this point they may choose between "Long," "Normal" or "Short." FCW may be turned off by pressing the CMBS button on the left side of the instrument panel.

Note that the FCW system cannot detect all objects ahead and may not detect a given object; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and other factors.

Lane Keep Assist System

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) helps provide a less stressful driving experience by reducing the need for steering correction movements and driving effort on the highway. LKAS uses a camera to read lane markings and uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) to assist the driver in maintaining their position within the lane.

Designed for the U.S. road structure, the system uses a monocular camera mounted on the upper portion of the windshield to identify painted lanes, Botts' dots and cats eye markers at speeds between 45 mph and 90 mph. When LKAS senses that the driver is drifting from the middle of a detected lane, the system generates corrective steering torque to assist the driver in maintaining lane position. Drivers using LKAS need to keep their hands on the steering wheel and their eyes on the road.

LKAS may be activated and deactivated using a switch located on the lower right part of the steering wheel. The system will suspend operation after several seconds if the driver takes his or her hands off the wheel, accompanied by a visual warning in the MID, resuming when the driver makes a steering input.

Road Departure Mitigation

Integrating Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) uses a monocular camera (mounted on the upper portion of the windshield) to identify solid or dashed painted lane lines, Botts' dots and cats eye markers. RDM uses steering force, via EPS to help the Civic Hatchback stay in its lane and, if the vehicle is detected leaving a lane marked by solid lines, braking force, via Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), to keep the vehicle from departing the lane or roadway altogether.

The monocular camera recognizes lane features and identifies the lane. If the RDM system determines that the Civic Hatchback is about to leave a detected lane, it will provide steering assist (primary) and in rare occasions when steering assist is not sufficient to avoid leaving a lane marked by a solid line, braking assist, to help the driver stay on the road. RDM is integrated with the VSA system to provide moderate braking, and with the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system to provide steering input.

Multiple visual warnings alert the driver when the RDM system is taking corrective action. These include a lane departure warning on the driver's Driver Information Interface (DII) along with a steering wheel vibration as an initial warning.

RDM also has customizable timing of the initial warning of the steering wheel shake/vibration. This can be adjusted in the vehicle settings. RDM can be turned off by using the RDM Off button on the left of the dash.

Lane Departure Warning - Integrated with RDM

Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is designed to alert the driver if the vehicle is leaving a detected lane without the turn signal being activated. The system functions at speeds from 45 to 90 mph on straight or slightly curved roads, alerting the driver of deviations from a detected lane. The LDW system utilizes the same upper front windshield camera used for LKAS and RDM and provides the visual and haptic alerts prior to the other systems actively engaging.

If the vehicle begins to move out of a detected lane without the turn signal activated, LDW illuminates a Lane Departure message on the Multi-Information Display (MID) and oscillates the steering wheel, advising the driver to take appropriate action. The system can be activated and deactivated by pressing the LDW button located on the instrument panel, to the left of the steering column.

There are certain conditions under which the system may not engage or operate, including inclement weather (e.g., snow, ice or heavy rain) and extreme cabin heat (due to operability of the camera). The system will automatically suspend operation when the brakes are applied or the turn signals are used. LDW may not detect all lane markings or lane departures; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and road condition. The driver remains responsible for safely operating the vehicle.

Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF), available on CVT equipped models (and ACC without LSF, avail. on 6MT-equipped models) allows the driver to set a desired speed and following interval from a vehicle detected ahead, allowing the use of cruise control in light traffic conditions. This significantly reduces the driver stress of driving in traffic. The system uses the millimeter wave radar and monocular camera to continually track the distance to the vehicle detected ahead, and then adjusts the Civic Hatchback's speed to maintain the set following interval. A short, medium, long, or extra-long interval can be selected. When required, the Civic Hatchback automatically brakes using the VSA modulator. Integrated Low-Speed Follow (LSF) extends the automatic following capability to stop-and-go traffic situations (down to 0 mph).

ACC operates in the following ways in the listed circumstances:

• A preceding vehicle is detected in the lane ahead - Decelerates automatically, if required, and then controls the following distance.
• The preceding vehicle slows to a stop - Stops automatically and remains stationary.
• The preceding vehicle accelerates from a stop - Resumes following when the SET or RES switch or accelerator pedal is operated.
• Another vehicle merges in between the Civic Hatchback and the preceding vehicle - Automatically switches "targets" to the nearest detected preceding vehicle.
• The preceding vehicle exits the lane - ACC system continues at cruise-control speed previously selected by driver (25 to 90 mph).

A Driver Information Interface (DII) message and audible warning alert the driver when the ACC function is activated.

Honda LaneWatch™

Honda Civic Hatchback EX and above trims include the Honda LaneWatch™ ;display. Honda LaneWatch™ uses a camera located at the bottom the passenger-side exterior mirror to display a wide-angle view of the passenger side roadway on the 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen. The image appears when the right turn signal is activated or when a button on the end of the turn signal stalk is pressed.

The typical field of view for a passenger-side mirror is approximately 18 to 22 degrees, but the LaneWatch™ display field-of-view is about four times greater, or approximately 80 degrees. The system helps the driver to see traffic, pedestrians or objects not always seen using the mirror alone. To help make judging distance easier, three reference lines are shown. Drivers should visually confirm roadway conditions prior to changing lanes.

LaneWatch™ can be customized to suit the driver's preferences. Turn-signal activation of the LaneWatch™ system can be switched on or off, as can the three onscreen reference lines. Screen brightness, contrast and black level are also adjustable.

Auto High-Beam System (AHB)

The auto high-beam system (AHB), standard on Sport Touring trim and included with Honda Sensing-equipped trims, makes optimal use of the vehicle's headlights. When the headlight switch is set in the Auto position, the system automatically illuminates the high-beams until an integrated camera detects oncoming or preceding traffic and automatically switches to low beams.