Dashboard and instruments

The deep dashboard, in particular the area immediately in front of the driver, is a key feature of the interior package and its design mirrors the same wedge-shaped, cab-forward effect of the exterior. In fact, the very shape of the body allows for the distinct, three-dimensional effect of the dashboard.

Honda Civic's fascia is based on Honda's Dual Link concept, which organises driver information in a rational way - the most essential details appearing at the very top of the dash and relatively far forward, to ensure the driver's view of the road is only momentarily interrupted when the information is being consulted.

Secondary information and controls are then spaced out around and below this central focus within an 'inner circle'. Besides being modern and sophisticated, the Dual Link concept contributes to quick and accurate driver information, clearly very important to driving safety.

The primary point of focus, and immediately ahead of the driver, is an electronic display featuring a digital speedometer, flanked on the left by a rev indicator and on the right by an Eco indicator that shows instant fuel economy. On the same level and positioned away to the right is the digital audio display and clock.

The secondary 'inner circle' located within the lower level of the instrument panel features an analogue tachometer flanked on the left by engine temperature and on the right by the fuel gauge. Contained within the centre of the tachometer is a multi-information display which informs the driver of average speed, average consumption, instant consumption, oil level, rear seatbelt usage, outside temperature and fuel range. *

Around the outside of this display are secondary controls such as those for the air conditioning (on the left) and the engine start button (on the right) which adds a sporty flavour to the new generation Civic. The button becomes active once the ignition key has been inserted.

* Note: The rear seatbelt usage reminder is a Euro NCAP recommendation and is fitted as standard. Honda Civic is the only car in the market that can inform the driver about rear seatbelt usage upon request (competitor systems only show such information once the engine has been started).

Numerals and letters are in white, some of them against a blue background, and there are red elements to provide a sense of dynamism. The centre display backlighting is darker in order to create a floating effect to the information displayed.

The interior surfaces are finished in high quality grain, and chosen for their excellent tactile qualities. The materials selected are also PVC-free, so reducing their environmental impact. Soft touch materials are used in the upper areas of the dashboard and the door panels, while the lower section of the dashboard, the centre console and the lower part of the door panel are covered with leather grain. The A, B and C pillars are covered with a grain plastic that emulates fabric.


Controls

The three-spoke multi-functional steering wheel retains the current Honda layout that offers good operability. On the left hand spoke are the audio remote control switches and on the right on 1.8 and 2.2 ES and EX models the cruise control buttons. Illumination allows easy recognition at night.

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