Honda Civic Si and Honda Civic Hybrid feature a sport-oriented speed sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS) that increases power assist at low speeds and reduces power assist at high speeds. Honda Civic Coupe and Honda Civic Sedan use a speed sensitive hydraulic power steering system. All models have a tilt and telescope steering wheel.
Larger wheels and tires contribute to Honda Civic's improvement in ride and handling. The Civic Si uses Michelin's all-season Pilot HX MXM4 tire in size P215/45 R17 (also available is a new Pilot Exalto high performance summer version as a factory option) and 17x7 inch alloy wheels. A dealer installed 18-inch tire and wheel package is available. The Civic Hybrid features P195/65 R15 low rolling resistance tires with lightweight and aerodynamic 15x6 alloy wheels. The most popular LX and EX trim levels for sedan and coupe have P205/55 R16 tires and 16x6.5 inch wheels (the EX has alloy wheels and the LX has steel wheels with covers). The DX sedan and coupe ride on P195/65 R15 tires with 15x6 steel wheels with covers.
All Honda Civics are equipped with a new 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). Disc brakes are used on the front and rear wheels on Si and EX models; rear drum brakes are used on Hybrid, LX and DX models. The 4-channel ABS with EBD independently modulates braking power at each wheel, as opposed to the more common 3-channel system that modulates the front wheels independently and the rear wheels with equal braking force. Electronic Brake Distribution proportions brake power to the rear wheels based on vehicle weight distribution. The new 4-channel capability allows the rear wheels to react independently while cornering, representing a significant enhancement to the ABS system's ability to influence vehicle stability and safety. Further additions to the braking system include a new ABS control module (that applies the new 4-channel features) and a brake booster that improves pedal feel. Bottom line, the Civic stops with greater authority and added control.
Interior
High-tech and futuristic just begin to describe the Civic's new interior at the core of its design. Honda stylists and engineers prioritized sophistication to create a high-quality, advanced and sporty space with the latest technology, loads of storage and innovative ergonomics. More standard features and new available features like a voice activated navigation system highlight the dedication to taking the interior to an entirely new level.
A two-tier instrument panel positions priority gauges like the speedometer up high in the driver's field of vision. The increased body width allows the seats to be wider and more supportive, and a spacious multi-functional center console accommodates up to 20 compact discs and performs armrest duties for both front occupants. Active front seat head restraints are used to help minimize the potential for whiplash injuries in a rear collision.
Key interior dimensions on the sedan remain similar to the generous proportions of the 2005 model, with improvements in hip room, shoulder room, knee room in all seating positions. As the Civic Coupe has become more sport-oriented with unique exterior dimensions, the interior volume and rear seat room have become smaller to create a more personalized and sport-oriented space.
The latest generation of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is available on Si, Hybrid and EX models and features a 6.5-inch mechanical display that opens and closes for access to the internal single-disc CD player and a new digital audio card reader that can play MP3 and WMA files from CompactFlash(R) cards. The navigation system features more than 6 million points of interest and can control the audio system. The voice recognition is capable of recognizing and inputting numbers, street names and cities.
