2006 Honda Civic

Honda is throwing some preproduction parties as a way of introducing their next generation Civic. One intrepid blogger, Brett, in Los Angeles has several photos posted on his blog.

Initial comments: exterior styling is an evolution of the generally conservative styling the Civic has had for 2 generations now at least. It will not offend anyone, but it doesn't stand out. The front clip appears Saturnesque to me. I can't stand those wheels to be honest. I hope those are on the base model. Interior layout of the dash and sterring wheel is radically different. I can't tell from the photos how it truly flows, but Honda usually has ergonomics down pretty good.

Word has it the brand spanking new 1.8L 4 cylinder engines have good power for their size, around 140 hp or so. Don't go looking for Mustangs at the stoplight, but should have decent thrust. A hybrid has already been designed, but I have no idea if it will come out the same time as the conventional breathern. Honda will sell a quarter million per year easily in the U.S. as they've been doing for several years now. It will be on my test drive list at the very least.

Chicago will be the nearest location, but no date has been announced yet. Road trip!