Honda received a great shock in 2011 when the Civic 2012 model was rejected by its fans. Sales reached an all-time low in the U.S., sales was down 14.8 per cent in the first few months after it was released. Its problems began even before it entered the showrooms. It started with the marketing strategy Honda chose. Production started during the global financial crisis, and Honda felt that buyers would settle for inexpensive but low quality cars, they were disappointed! When reviewers took the car for a test, they complained about the poor interior. It was called “a betrayal” by The Wall Street Journal, the Consumer Reports called it “insubstantial,” and Motor Trend said it looks “out-dated”. Honda heard all what was said, admitted that it made many mistakes in the production and promised that it would work to bring out a revamped model in 2013, a 2014 Honda Civic.
Although there is little information available about Honda Civic 2014 now, according to some spy photo we saw, there will also be a variant with the existing five-door. This new development shows how far Honda is taking its performance cars and how seriously it cherishes its buyers.
An executive from the carmaker used the word “significant” to describe the changes that will be seen on the 2014 Civic. The upcoming Honda Civic will get to the market sometimes in late 2013. As of now, the Honda has not disclosed its plans, but interviews given by some top executives in the company suggest that a sport “Type-R” model is coming also as a new variant. The brand fans have something else to look forward to, the 2014 Honda Civic type-R. Though we do not know if this R-model Honda Civic will get to the U.S., it is always good to know what others will enjoy from Honda.
2014 Civic Engines
Just like the predecessors, the 2014 Civic will likely be released with a rev-happy, naturally aspirated 2.0-L petrol engine. The focus this time around will not be on speed, but handling ability. Other than the 6 speed manual transmission system that we expect, the new 2014 Honda Civic Type-R aided by its turbo engine will have a lower end torque and can deliver 200 bhp or more. We also expect the car to be able to achieve a top speed of 150 mph, and accelerate from 0-60 in just 6.5 seconds.
2014 Honda Civic changes
Another thing Honda’s designers will try to change about the 2012 model is the styling. They concluded that the style is dull and uninspiring. Honda creative director admitted to The Sydney Morning Herald that, “for some years now the cars produced by Honda have been a bit boring”. The 2014 Honda Civic which will seat on 18″ dark grey alloy wheels will now have a sportier interior, rear bumper and diffuser, and a more aggressive front, just like the one we saw at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Unlike previous models, the upcoming car will come as a five-door, and not as a three-door.
The base price of the 2014 Honda Civic is expected to be about $35,000 USD, and it will compete with Volkswagen’s latest Golf GTI.
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