2016 Geneva Motor Show: Honda Civic Hatchback Concept Revealed

Joining its sedan and coupe derivatives introduced last year, Honda has revealed the new Civic 5-door hatchback at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show in a prototype guise. The concept previews the production spec hatchback that will go on sale eventually and will draw power from a new range of turbocharged engines. Interestingly, the concept looks very much close to the real deal, so expect a lot of the design cues seen here making it to the final model, sans the ostentatious bits.

Resembling the 2016 Civic Coupe to a great extent, the new Honda Civic hatchback prototype carries forward the bold design language featuring the sporty bumper with massive air intakes, wide LED headlights with DRLs and a sculpted bonnet that boasts of a commanding presence. The side profile features a receding shoulder line, while the roofline has a coupe-like nature, moving all the way to the tail lamps.

You also see the beefed rear haunches and the high boot lid that does look sporty, but is likely to hamper on rear visibility. The more appreciative bit though are the rather large C-shaped LED tail lights that are connected via a spoiler in the centre, whereas a roof spoiler ensures the sporty quotient is higher. While the sporty parts may not make it to the regular version of the hatchback, you could expect the 'Type R' version to retain some of the elements, including the dual exhaust and 19-inch alloy wheels.

While the exterior is certainly pleasing, we will have to wait a bit longer to check out the exterior of the new Honda Civic hatchback. The concept does not have an interior yet, nor even seats for that matter. However, it is likely that the model will continue to feature the same cabin design as the sedan and coupe versions with a touchscreen central display unit and an instrument cluster with a TFT screen.

Honda says that the new Civic hatchback 30mm wider, 20mm lower and 130mm longer than the outgoing version, making it high on practicality. Adding the sporty touch will be the new engine options which include 1.0-litre turbocharged VTEC petrol with an expected output of 100bhp, while the 1.5-litre VTEC turbo petrol will also be present. The petrol mills are based on a completely new structure and are equipped with better turbo systems and variable valve motion technology, which helps reduce friction and achieve better power output.

Diesel power will come from the revised 1.6-litre i-DTEC motor that is expected to make in excess of 120bhp. The Type R model that will be favoured by the enthusiasts is expected to get new version of the 2.0-litre turbo petrol motor tuned to produce over 300bhp. Another lap record on the Nurburgring seems to be in order here. Lastly, transmission duties on the 10th generation Honda Civic hatchback will include a 6-speed manual and a CVT unit. Built at Honda's Swindon facility in the UK, the new Civic hatchback will be going on sale early next year.