New Civic to go on show in March
14 January 2005 Production versions of the new Ford Focus rival will break cover by the end of 2005 before UK sales start in January 2006. The eighth-generation small family car is tipped to get more powerful engines than the current range, including the 2.2-litre diesel found in the Accord and soon to be added to the CRV off-roader. Entry-level petrol engines are also likely to increase from the current 1.4- and 1.6-litre engines to a 1.8-litre unit. This could also mean a jump in entry-level prices to around £11,500 to £12,000. Honda is also getting ready to launch its upmarket Legend saloon, although its UK arrival is expected to be pushed back from autumn 2005 to spring 2006. A range of high-tech options will be available, including a new stability package called Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. It is the first system to automatically vary the distribution of power between the left and right hand wheels as well as fore and aft. A pop-up bonnet on the Legend aims to minimise injuries to pedestrians and continue Honda's lead in developing car designs that protect vulnerable road users. Other options from the Legend will be also be offered in the Accord range next year, including a system that can steer the car to keep it safely between lane markings on the motorway, according to our sources. It will be matched to an adaptive cruise control that maintains a safe distance from the car in front. Honda Civic Current price range: £10,000 to £16,250 What Car? Target Price saving: 6% (1% on Type R) Facelift due: Not imminent New model due: Early 2006, from £11,500 to £12,000 (est) Rivals: Citroen C4, Ford Focus, Mazda 3, Vauxhall Astra, Volkswagen Golf Honda Legend Current price range: N/A What Car? Target Price saving: N/A Facelift due: N/A New model due: Spring 2006, from £40,000 (est) Rivals: Audi A6, BMW 5-series, Jaguar S-type, Mercedes E-class Honda Accord Current price range: £16,600 to £22,600 What Car? Target Price saving: 5% Facelift due: Early 2006, from £16,600 (est) New model due: 2008 Rivals: Ford Mondeo, Mazda 6, Toyota Avensis, Vauxhall Vectra, Volkswagen Passat. |
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