After the recent redesign and excellent reception of the new model, it would be normal to expect no bigger novelties for the second production year. However, that won’t be the case this time, especially when it comes to the 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback version. In this case, we will see a couple of pretty big novelties. Of course, the biggest one will be the arrival of the Type R high-performance model. Also, the Civic will finally debut in Europe and from what we can see, it will be offered only with a hybrid powertrain, apart from the Type R version.
On the other hand, the rest of the lineup will continue in the same way. We are about to see the same layout, which has so many great things to offer. We like the ride quality very much, as well as the new cabin. Traditionally, the Civic hatchback is one of the most spacious models in the class, whether it’s about passenger or cargo space. The list of standard and available equipment is pretty long, while tech features are intuitive and easy to use.
2023 Honda Civic Hatchback: Type R Comeback
After a short break, the high-performance Type R is coming back. Once again, we will see a car with superior handling and excellent performance. Once again, we will see an FWD car, with advanced dual-axis strut front suspension and limited-slip differential, which make the CTR the best FWD car to drive. Of course, this version will also come with lots of exclusive aesthetical details, though it won’t be overdesigned as the previous generation. The overall layout will be the same as in the standard model, though you may count on things like a massive rear wing, large 20-inch wheels, reshaped bumpers, recognizable three-pipe exhaust etc.
Finally, there is the engine, which will carry on from the previous model, probably with a slight power increase. This means a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which currently puts out 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Some sources suggest that the new version could feature around 330 horsepower, but that’s still to be confirmed. Of course, the engine will come in pair with Honda’s excellent 6-speed manual transmission, arguably the best gearbox of this kind in the world.
2023 Honda Civic Hatchback Design
On the other hand, the standard 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback won’t bring too many changes. You may count on a familiar design, which features a more mature layout than before, with a sleek profile and smoother lines than before. Still, the styling has never been Civic’s strongest point. This hatchback is all about driving experience and the current generation is no exception. Once again, you get an excellent suspension setup, which makes this car very fun to drive. At the same time, the ride is pretty comfortable and road bumps are absorbed in a pretty nice fashion.
Interior
This aspect won’t bring changes either. We are talking about a modern, attractive cabin design, highlighted by a simplistic dashboard design that’s functional and elegant. We also like the generous amount of space in both rows, which is no wonder if we consider that this is one of the biggest models in the class. The 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback’s generous cargo area will once again be a big advantage over the sedan, as the volume behind the second row goes up to 24.5 cubic feet, which is excellent for the class.
Besides plenty of space, this cabin also comes with plenty of standard equipment. The list of standard tech features includes a 7-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, a USB port, and a four-speaker stereo, while you can also opt for goodies like a 9-inch touch screen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless device charging, an additional front USB port, two rear USB ports, navigation, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, satellite radio, HD Radio, voice recognition, an eight-speaker stereo, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo.
2023 Honda Civic Hatchback Engines
Other than the new Type R, this aspect won’t bring bigger changes, at least not in North America. So, base models will carry on with a good-old 2.0-liter inline-four, which puts out around 155 horsepower. It’s a super-reliable and very refined engine but we would still rather go with the optional 1.5-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 180 horsepower and way more torque. As a result, driving dynamics are notably better. Also, it’s worth mentioning that the hatchback is available with either CVT or 6-speed manual transmission, while the sedan version comes with a CVT only.
The 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback will finally debut in Europe and from what we know so far, it will come with a hybrid powertrain only. It will feature a system that combines a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with a couple of electric motors, for a max output of 180 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque.
2023 Honda Civic Hatchback Release Date and Price
The 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback will arrive sometime in the second half of the year, with a starting price of around 23.000 dollars. The new Type R should start slightly under $40.000.