In developing the new model Civic, high performance targets were set for comfort, efficiency, and style based on the overall concept of a “comfortable life,” as well as for collision safety, driving stability, and noise and vibration. The engine and chassis have a compact design to ensure a wide cabin space relative to the vehicle’s outer dimensions, and a flat floor was achieved with a centralized under-floor layout for the exhaust and fuel systems, thus achieving a “comfortable space.” In addition excellent fuel economy of 19.4 km/L in the 10-15 mode was achieved, and the Civic also obtained J-LEV certification. Further, the high performance targets were achieved in the areas of driving stability, noise and vibration performance, and collision safety performance.
Article of Honda R&D Technical Review Vol.13 No.1 (17 - 28)