With the 2023 Civic Hatchback, Honda has managed to make this already popular compact car virtually irresistible. The hatchback lends continuity to the lines of the vehicle, which, in ¾-view, has a decidedly European vibe. Sitting above a set of distinctive taillights, the oversized rear window ensures excellent visibility and, in concert with the power moonroof, offers a truly pleasant sensation of oneness with the world outside. Not to mention the practical side of the hatchback when it comes to transporting cargos.
The same genes for the 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback
Just because the 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback is versatile and roomy, this doesn’t mean that it’s any less fun to drive, regardless of the version (LX, Sport or Sport Touring). The chassis has maintained its rigidity, which contributes to the vehicle’s agility under virtually any circumstances. Obviously, the independent front strut suspension and multi-link rear suspension, as well as the available engines, are largely responsible for the car’s sporty handling.
In this regard, the 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback comes with a choice of two different powertrains: a very good i-VTEC engine on the LX base model and an excellent VTEC turbo engine on the Sport and Sport Touring models. The former is a 2.0 L four-cylinder direct-injection 16-valve dual overhead cam (DOHC) engine, producing 158 hp and 138 lbf·ft of torque, while the latter is a 1.5 L inline-four DOHC engine with turbocharger, direct injection and 16 valves, delivering 180 hp and 177 lbf·ft of torque.
It’s fitting to note that, with the turbo powertrain, combined city/highway fuel consumption is only 7.1 liters per 100 km (with the continuously variable transmission), which is more than acceptable considering the car’s penchant for sportiness. Moreover, the standard Eco Assist™ system helps reduce fuel consumption.
All the usual hallmarks
Although the level of luxury goes up a notch from one version to the next, the passenger compartment is practical, uncluttered, modern and tasteful, while the driving position and the support offered by the seats are impeccable. When it comes to equipment, everything is complete and refined, from the connectivity features, touchscreens and premium sound system to the Honda Sensing suite of driver assist technologies.