According to Honda, the platform itself is new, although it is evolved from the current 10th generation model. Exterior dimensions stay close to the 2021 model, although wheelbase has grown a substantial 35 mm. In addition, engineers have introduced new suspension bits to improve steering feel, while reducing harsh road shock by as much as 20 percent.

Outside, the 2022 Civic is characterized by a more mature aesthetic. Projector-type halogens are standard, but the RS gets LEDs (LED front fog lamps are standard though). The sportier-looking RS variant continues for the 11th generation model and is immediately recognizable thanks to its various high-gloss black bits. These black bits are found on the grille (complete with RS logo), side mirror caps, door handles, wheels, and rear spoiler. For the Thai market it rides either on 16-inch (for EL and EL+) and 17-inch wheels (RS).

Inside, the 11th-generation Civic features the striking honeycomb mesh accent that runs across the entire length of the dashboard. It happens to conceal the air vents while visually separating the audio, information displays, and climate controls. A 7-inch infotainment system as standard, but it grows to 9 inches in the RS variant. As expected of the RS variant too, it gets suede inserts on its seats along with a black headliner. Other features found exclusively in the top-trim Civic include a wireless charger, dual zone climate control, and powered front seats.

In terms of technology, the Civic also debuts the model line’s first-ever full all-digital LCD instrument display, at least for the RS variant (the lower grades get partial LCD meter clusters). Measuring 10.2 inches, it can display a variety of information all customizable using the steering wheel. The custom modes include showing gauges in a traditional round needle-and-dial, or bar graphs flanking the left and right of the screen. In the middle is a variety of user-selectable information, such as the current music selection and a trip computer, with the center of the display used to indicate the status of various Honda Sensing safety and driver assistive systems. In a surprise-and-delight feature, the brake lights, headlights and turn signals of the displayed Civic vehicle image turn on and off with those functions.

Oh, and yes, speaking about Honda Sensing, the all-new Civic gets it as standard. It offers a suite of active safety and driver assistive technologies. It unlocks features such as lane keeping assist, automatic high beam, adaptive cruise control with low speed follow, and more. Lane Watch is also available, but only for the RS variant.

Now, here comes the most awaited part: the drivetrain. As confirmed by earlier rumors, the Thailand market drops the normally-aspirated engine in favor of an all-turbo line-up for the 2022 Civic. The turbocharged L15C gives Honda’s compact sedan 178 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm of torque from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm. It also gets three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. The only gearbox is a CVT.

Reservations for the all-new 2022 Civic starts now in Thailand where prices start at 964,900 Baht (P 1.46 million) and top out at 1,199,900 Baht P 1.81 million). For the Philippine market, it is expected to arrive in Q4 2021.