The Civic Hybrid and Civic Sedan meld high technology with a futuristic, sporty and sophisticated style for an ultra-modern, 21st century presence. Its monoform design with a long wheelbase and short overhangs emphasize strength and agility.

Dimensions
Compared to its predecessor, the 2006 Civic Sedan has grown 1.4 inches in overall length (176.7 inches) and 1.5 inches in width (69.0 inches). Its 106.3-inch wheelbase is 3.2 inches longer, while the rear overhang is 3.1 inches shorter and the front overhang is 1.8 inches longer. Height has been reduced by 0.2 inches. The front track is 1.1 inches wider (59.0 inches) and the rear track is 2.2 inches wider (60.1). Vehicle weight has increased by approximately 5 percent on each trim level – a relatively small gain considering the addition of extensive standard safety equipment, new features and greatly increased bending and torsional rigidity.

The 2006 Civic Coupe has been reduced 0.6 inches in overall length (174.8 inches) compared to the 2005 model, and is now 1.4 inches wider in width (68.9 inches). Its coupe-exclusive 104.3-inch wheelbase is 1.2 inches longer, while the front and rear overhang lengths remain unchanged. Overall height has been reduced by 3.2 inches. The front track is 1.1 inches wider (59.0 inches) and the rear track is 2.1 inches wider (60.1). Like the sedan, vehicle weight has increased by approximately 5 percent on each trim level.

Next Generation Global Compact Platform
The Civic is built on an all-new version of Honda's Global Compact Platform. The solid unit body of the Civic was designed from the outset to define a new standard for torsional and bending rigidity in the compact segment. The new Global Compact Platform implements advanced body construction technologies for enhanced safety, better rigidity, improved ride comfort and a quieter cabin. Advanced new structural engineering and manufacturing methods utilizing 50 percent high-strength steel, of which 38 percent is high-grade (590MPa), results in a torsional rigidity increase of 36 percent, even as the wheelbase and width have grown. The body structure, including the important mid-floor cross members and floor gussets, are also made of high-grade high-strength steel. The longer wheelbase serves to increase its stability during straight-line running, as well as when braking and turning.

The Civic features a 4-wheel independent suspension system that, for 2006, has been completely reengineered to provide even more agile handling and refined ride comfort. Up front, the Civic features a compact Control-Link MacPherson Strut suspension for outstanding handling, ride and packaging. The Control-Link MacPherson Strut design delivers quick, responsive handling by helping to maximize each front tire's contact with the road throughout the range of suspension travel. In the rear, the Civic is equipped with a double-wishbone multi-link suspension that helps provide a smooth ride, excellent handling, and good cargo space. (See the Chassis section for more details on the suspension.)

Source: Honda PR