The prospect of driving a car that consumes 4.6 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers can be a proposition that is hard to resist. And if you are putting premium to topnotch and out-of-this-world fuel efficiency, then you will have to go for the Honda Civic Hybrid.
(2/2/2010)
Jessica Beresford
For those who have the extra dollars to spend and love the seamless styling of the Honda Civic, the petrol-electric car is a perfect buy. Its modern design and features include enhanced rear lights, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, in-dash audio device, ergonomic seats, wide-opening doors and a lot, lot more.
But the real action happens underneath the hood.
This hybrid packs a nasty power punch with its 1.3-litre VTEC engine combined with electric motor powered by NiMH battery. This dual power source delivers 170Nm of torque and 85kW of power. The Honda Civic Hybrid is exclusively powered by electric when running at speeds up to 40 kph. At increased speeds or under acceleration, the petrol engine goes on board and partners with the electric motor. While on cruise, either the electric motor or the petrol engine powers the car, depending on the driving condition.
When you step on the brakes, the petrol engine automatically shuts down while the electric motor absorbs energy and charges the battery pack. At full stop, the petrol engine shifts to idle-stop mode and is automatically powered up once you release the brakes.
Once you are behind the wheel of this Hybrid you will be delightfully surprised that it drives like any conventional car that runs exclusively on petrol. It delivers high precision performance in terms of handling even at high speed driving conditions. You will experience the normal and refined acceleration you usually get from a 1.3-litre Honda Civic.
There is one minor odd detail that you have to take into account when driving the Honda Civic Hybrid and that is the inconsistent feel on the brake pedal. This is mainly due to the activation of the KERS which relays the transformed braking energy into potential energy and the release of vacuum pressure as the engine is automatically powered down at about 15 kph.
The Honda Civic Hybrid is one heck of a green car. And if you really want to do your share in saving the environment, then you may have enough drive to part with $35,990 of your money.
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