Honda Automobiles: 2012 Honda Civic

2012 Civic Sedan body and chassis

Body Overview
The body of the 2012 Civic Sedan and Coupe are designed to be more stylish and aerodynamic than previous models, while simultaneously offering high levels of safety protection. Structural technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions (please see Safety section). The increased application of high-strength steel (now totaling 55 percent in the Civic Sedan and 56 percent in the Civic Coupe) contributes to reduced weight, enhanced safety potential and high levels of overall body rigidity. A rigid body allows the structure to remain steady while the suspension moves, resulting in a smooth ride and a solid, confident and responsive driving feel.

Body Highlights

  • Sporty, 5-passenger sedan with a sophisticated presence and efficient shape
  • Sporty, 5-passenger coupe with an aggressive stance and aerodynamic form
  • Rigid and lightweight unit-body design with 55 percent high-strength steel for the sedan, and 56 percent high-strength steel for the coupe
  • Aggressively raked windshield design for greater aerodynamic efficiency and narrow A-pillars for excellent visibility
  • Numerous under-vehicle aerodynamic aids for improved fuel economy and reduced cabin noise

Apart from the headlights, hood and front fenders, no visible exterior body panels, lights, glass, grille or bumpers are shared between the Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe. However beneath the skin, the underlying chassis construction is the same between the Sedan and Coupe, except that the Coupe wheelbase is 1.9 inches shorter (at 103.2 inches) vs. the Sedan (at 105.1 inches).

Sedan Exterior Design Concept
The exterior styling emphasis was to create a distinctively Honda appearance with clean, yet powerful lines. The design is intended to naturally connect with fuel economy and environmental performance, while also expressing strength, energy and dynamism.

The 2012 Civic improves on the one-motion, mono-form design originally introduced on the previous generation Civic by making it even sleeker and more aerodynamic, benefiting the cars sporty appearance and its fuel economy. The one-motion design is defined by a continuous line starting near the front of the hood, extending over the cabin and continuing all the way to the trunk lid in an unbroken, single motion. Compared to the previous model, the 2012 Civic front A-pillars have been moved further forward resulting in a steeper, more aggressive windshield angle. The highest roof point comes above the head of the front passengers, which creates a coupe-like roofline that flows smoothly into the trunk.

To fully express the clean and energetic design theme, surface treatment plays an important role. Both front and rear fender lines have been designed to seem to bulge out, creating a feeling of powerful, dynamic strength. More particularly, the line extending from the upper character line to the rear fender broadens into a deep shoulder line with clearly delineated, sharp edges that further enhance the feeling of dynamism. In the lower part of the body, a single character line runs the length of the side from front to rear with a slight kink towards the back, accenting the flowing side view.

Compared to the previous Civic, the front part of the beltline has been lowered to increase forward visibility. Additionally, the forwardmost surface at the base of the front pillar has been covered with a piece of black trim to give the impression the glass area extends even further than it actually does, creating a pointed, sharp appearance. The rear side glass area adopts a sharp cutoff line that pulls the entire upper window line further back and ultimately adds to the more dynamic and sporty side view.

More Spacious Interior
Honda has long been an advocate of the man maximum, machine minimum philosophy, and the 2012 Civic achieves another step forward. The external dimensions have remained the same as the previous model, yet the sedans interior space has improved. To convey the improvement, the long and flowing lines on the outside, along with the shape of the glass area, have been optimized to convey the improved interior spaciousness from the outside.

Advancements in unit-body design and component integration actually increase the Civic Sedans passenger volume to 94.7 cu. ft., a 3.8 cu. ft. (4.1 percent) increase over the 2011 Civic Sedans 90.9 cu. ft. of passenger volume. The improvement is equally dramatic in the EX and EX-L models, which are equipped with a standard moonroof. These models also benefit from 3.7 cu. ft. more passenger volume, a 4.2 percent increase. As a result, from inside the new Civic looks, feels, and simply is more spacious – with improved ingress and egress as well.

The new Civic Coupe has fractionally less passenger volume than the previous model – 83.2 cu. ft. for the 2012 Coupe compared to 83.7 cu. ft. for the outgoing model. Both the Sedan and Coupe remain classified as Compact vehicles by the EPA.

Civic Sedan Dimensions:
The 2012 Civic Sedan is able to offer more interior volume and with it, more comfort plus distinct advantages over its rivals. For the Civic Sedan, the competition includes the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze. For the Civic Coupe, competitors include the Scion tC, Kia Forte Koup and Ford Focus. (Please see Interior tab for more information.)

Standard Civic Sedan Exterior Features
Standard exterior value features for the 2012 Civic Sedan DX include:

  • 15-inch steel wheels with full covers and P195/65R15 tires
  • Integrated rear-window antenna
  • Black manually operated side mirrors
  • 2-speed intermittent windshield wipers
  • Impact-absorbing body-colored bumpers
  • Multi-reflector halogen headlights with auto-off function
  • Power windows
  • Daytime running lights (DRL)

Added exterior features on the Civic LX Sedan include:

  • Body colored power side mirrors
  • Body colored door handles
  • Auto up/down drivers window
  • Power door locks with auto-lock feature

Added exterior features on the Civic EX Sedan include:

  • 16-inch alloy wheels and P205/55R16 tires
  • One-touch power moonroof with tilt feature
  • Rear disc brakes

Added exterior features on the Civic EX Sedan with Leather (EX-L) include:

  • Heated outside mirrors
  • Auto on/off headlights

Civic Hybrid Sedan
Added exterior features on the Civic Hybrid include:

  • Rear decklid spoiler
  • LED tail lights w/ blue accents
  • Body colored grille with blue accent
  • Multi-Reflector Halogen head lights with blue accent bulb cover
  • Hybrid badging
  • Lightweight 15-inch alloy wheels
  • Roof mounted antenna
  • Power door mirrors with integrated turn signals

Civic Natural Gas
Added exterior features on the Civic Natural Gas Sedan include:

  • 15-inch alloy wheels
  • Unique Natural Gas badging on rear decklid

Civic Si Sedan

  • Front spoiler
  • Rear undercover diffuser
  • Body-colored low-profile rear wing spoiler
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • P215/45R17 all-season tires (with summer tires available)
  • Chrome exhaust finisher
  • Fog lights

Civic HF
New for 2012, the Civic HF is a high fuel economy model positioned between the Civic LX and Civic EX. The model is intended for customers interested in a vehicle with enhanced efficiency and is powered by a traditional gasoline-engine. To deliver its increased fuel economy (EPA-estimated 29 mpg city and 41 mpg highway), the Civic HF receives an array of special features that help it move though the air and roll down the road more efficiently.

Standard Features (adds to LX)

  • Aerodynamic alloy wheels
  • Low rolling-resistance tires
  • Additional under body covers
  • Rear decklid spoiler
  • Unique Civic HF emblem on the rear decklid

Specifications Comparison

2012 Civic Sedan vs. 2011 Civic Sedan

2012 Civic Sedan
2011 Civic Sedan
Difference
Wheelbase, in.
105.1
106.3
-1.2
Overall length, in.
177.3
177.3
No change
Overall width, in.
69.0
69.0
No change
Overall height, in.
56.5
56.5
No change
Track, F/R, in.
59.0/59.9
59.0/60.2
+0.0/-0.3
Curb weight, lbs (MT/AT)
2,608/2,672 DX; 2,641/2,705 LX;
2,765 EX;
2,773 EX-L
2,630/2,692 DX; 2,687/2,754 LX; 2,747/2,820 EX; 2,760/2,831 EX-L
-22/-20 DX;
-47/-49 LX;
-55 EX;
-58 EX-L
Passenger volume, cu. ft. (Mfr.)
94.7
(92.1 EX/EX-L)
90.9
(88.4 EX/EX-L)
+3.7/+3.7
Cargo volume, cu. ft. (Mfr.)
12.5
12.0
+0.5
EPA classification
Compact
Compact
No change
Wheels, standard, in.
15×6.0
16×6.5
-0.5 (width)
Wheels, available, in.
16×6.5, 17×7 (Si)
16×6.5, 17×7
No change
Tires, standard
P195/65R15 89H
P195/65R15 89H
No change
Tires, available
P205/55R16, P215/45R17 (Si)
P205/55R16, P195/65R15, P215/45R17 (Si)
No change

Coupe Exterior Design Concept
Everything about Civic Coupe says this car is a drivers car- with the short, wide and low nose reinforcing an aggressive overall look. Adding to the distinctly sporty and dynamic flavor are wide, angular headlights, a distinctive grille and fog lamp openings in the lower fascia that further distinguish it from other cars on the road.

Along the Coupe bodyside, the solid-wedge design continues, with the hood, windshield and cabin forming one continuous flowing line. The windshield has the steepest rake of any Honda, and the windshield pillar and side mirror shape help minimize wind noise at highway speeds. In addition, decisive character lines along the bodyside flow upward toward the rear of the vehicle, creating a strong sense of motion even when the Coupe is at rest.

In back, the high rear deck further reinforces the Coupes dynamic, wedge styling and allows for a larger trunk opening for easier cargo loading. A functional rear lip spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels on EX and EX-L models further reinforce the Coupes sporty appearance.

Civic Si Coupe
The Si model furthers the Coupes aggressive approach with these added exterior features:

  • Front spoiler
  • Rear undercover diffuser
  • Body-colored low-profile rear wing spoiler
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • P215/45R17 all-season tires (with summer tires available)
  • Chrome exhaust finisher
  • Fog lights

Specifications Comparison

2012 Civic Coupe vs. 2011 Civic Coupe

2012 Civic Coupe
2011 Civic Coupe
Difference
Wheelbase, in.
103.2
104.3
-1.1
Overall length, in.
175.5
175.5
No change
Overall width, in.
69.0
68.9
+0.1
Overall height, in.
55.0
55.0
No change
Track, F/R, in.
59.0/59.9 (58.8/59.9 Si)
59.0/60.1
+0.0/0.2
Curb weight, lbs (MT/AT)
2597/2659 DX; 2617/2681 LX; 2681/2745 EX;
2,877 Si
2,588/2,652 DX; 2,659/2,721 LX; 2,703/2,771 EX;
2895 Si
+9/+7 (DX)
-42/-40 (LX)
-22/-26 (EX)
-18 (Si)
Passenger volume, cu. ft. (Mfr.)
83.2 (82.6 EX/EX-L)
83.7 (83.0 EX/EX-L)
-0.5 (-0.4 EX/EX-L)
Cargo volume, cu. ft. (Mfr.)
11.7
11.5
+0.2
EPA classification
Compact
Compact
No change
Wheels, standard in.
15×6.0
16×6.5
-0.5 (width)
Wheels, available in.
16×6.5, 17×7
16×6.5, 17×7
No change
Tires, standard
P195/65R15
P205/55R16
No change
Tires, available
P205/55R16, P215/45R17 (Si)
P195/65R15, P215/45R17 (Si)

Rigid Unit-Body Construction and Energy-Absorbing Crush Zones
The Civics aerodynamic unit-body structure plays a strong role in helping both the Coupe and Sedan achieve their high fuel-economy ratings and projected top safety ratings. Additionally, it contributes to a smooth, quiet ride. This is because the rigid unit-body helps to isolate much of the engine vibration and road noise that would otherwise be transmitted to the passenger compartment. The rigidity provided by the use of high-strength steel contributes to overall crash safety as well as reduction of overall vehicle weight.

As with all Honda models starting with the 2005 Odyssey, the 2012 Civic employs the ACE body structure. (Please see Safety section for more information.)

Increased Use of High-Strength Steel
The 2012 Civic Sedan now uses 55 percent high-strength steel compared to 50 percent in the previous generation (contributing to a 7-percent reduction in body weight).

In addition to being lighter, static and dynamic rigidity are also 10 percent better. High strength steel also enhances crash safety, and the greater stiffness and reduced weight also enhance ride quality, handling and interior quietness- helping all 2012 Civic models target the top durability, quality and reliability (DQR) in their class.

A summary of Civic Sedans improvements due to increased use of high-strength steel, compared to the 2011 Civic models:

  • 10 percent greater use of high strength steel (55 percent vs. 50 percent)
  • 10 percent greater torsional rigidity

Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is a pioneering Honda unit-body construction technology. Introduced to Civic in the 2006 model, ACE increases the vehicle bodys ability to disperse crash energy in a frontal collision and is expected to help deliver top safety ratings. Although federal testing has not yet been completed, the 2012 Civic Sedan and Coupe are projected to receive a 5-Star frontal impact rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA*) and a Good frontal crash safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). (Please see Safety tab for more information.)

*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov).

Narrow A-Pillars
More slender body A-pillars, constructed of high-strength steel, provide a greater field of outward view without compromising body strength. Along with a new side mirror shape, the slimmer A-pillars also help minimize wind noise at highway speeds.

Door Handles
All Civic models have ergonomically designed exterior door handles – black for the DX models and body-colored for other models. The door handles are designed to accommodate a variety of different hand sizes, as well as winter gloves.

Aerodynamic Side Mirrors
The Civics newly restyled door side mirrors are aerodynamically optimized to reduce wind noise by minimizing turbulence as well as to improve outside visibility. The mirrors are tuned to form a highly aerodynamic shape, supported by a wing-form stay, which combines visual appeal with a low drag design. Civic EX-L models and Hybrid models with leather include heated side mirrors. The Civic Hybrid side mirrors include turn signal indicators.

Aerodynamic Enhancements
A guide under the front bumper directs the flow of air into the engine compartment for cooling. Lightweight plastic parts under the engine bay, the fuel tank and parts of the rear underbody have been added to enhance airflow. The front spoiler and front and rear strakes help direct air flow around the tires and wheelwells.

Aerodynamic Flat Under-Floor
For 2012, a new flat under-floor significantly improves aerodynamic efficiency by helping air to move over, around and under the Civic Sedan and Coupe. The under-floor begins behind the front fascia, extends beneath the engine and transmission, and then underneath the passenger compartment. The aerodynamic improvement results in a significant 3.4 percent lower coefficient of drag compared to the 2011 Civic. The better aerodynamic efficiency helps improve fuel efficiency, stabilize handling and lower interior noise levels.

Power Windows
Power side windows are standard on all Civic models. An auto-up/down drivers window comes on LX and above models. Individual controls are located by their respective windows. Pressing a master switch on the drivers-window control panel can deactivate the passenger windows.

Security System with Remote Entry
A remote entry system is standard on Civic LX, EX and EX-L models. Using a wave key with integrated remote buttons, all doors can be locked with one touch of the LOCK button. Pressing UNLOCK once unlocks the drivers door, while pressing it twice unlocks all doors. The system has a range of up to 50 feet.

One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature
Civic EX, EX-L and Si models have a one-touch power moonroof with tilt feature that will open or close with one touch of the switch. The moonroofs thin construction allows for maximum headroom and improved comfort. The moonroof has a sliding sunshade that opens with the roof and can be closed to block sunlight.

To tilt or slide the moonroof the driver or front passenger needs only to fully press the ceiling-mounted switch once. The moonroof fully opens or closes automatically. However if the operator wishes to only partially open or close the moonroof (such as to achieve partial ventilation), a lighter touch yields full manual control. A pinch protection feature is built in, helping to ensure that the moonroof will not close if someones hand or arm is positioned in the path of the moonroof. If an obstruction is detected, the moonroof mechanism will reverse direction the moonroof.

Windshield Wipers
The windshield wipers on the 2012 Civic Sedan and Coupe are tucked below the hood line, out of the airflow over the hood to reduce turbulence, aerodynamic drag and noise. The arms are unobtrusive to the drivers field of view, and their clean design allows air to flow past with less turbulence.

Cargo Area
A competitive advantage for the new Civic Coupe and Sedan is its impressive storage capacity. With 12.5 cu. ft. of storage space, the new 2012 Civic Sedan exceeds the 12.0 cu. ft. trunk volume of the previous generation – an improvement of 0.5 cu. ft. or 4.2 percent. The Civic Coupe trunk offers 11.7 cubic feet of storage, slightly more than the previous models 11.5 cu. ft. Folding the second-row seatback yields additional room for bulky items.

Conveniently placed latches in the trunk enable users to lower the fold-down rear seatback without having to be inside of the vehicle. The Civic EX and EX-L models add even more convenience with their 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback design, which allow the option of passenger seating and cargo storage simultaneously.

All models feature a wide trunk opening and low lift-over height for easy placement and removal of items. The inside of the trunk uses a high-quality molded trunk lining. Underneath, the spare tire has a molded lining for extra storage, a feature seldom found within the compact class.

Sound Absorption Materials
The Civic is designed to provide an exceptionally smooth driving experience- now with reduced noise intrusion into the cabin. Lightweight sound-absorption materials in the roof, carpets and dashboard help keep the cabin quiet in addition to keeping vehicle weight down.

Multi-Reflector Halogen Headlights with Auto Off
All 2012 Civic models are equipped with multi-reflector halogen headlights for a dynamic and dramatic appearance. In addition, EX-L, Hybrid, and Si headlights have an Auto On/Off feature for added convenience. Inboard mounted halogen high beams offer improved nighttime driving confidence thanks to a crisp, bright and focused light beam. By operating at a lower voltage, the halogen low beams serve double-duty as the daytime running lights (DRL). All Civic models include a headlights-on reminder.

Civic Si Sedan and Coupe models add fog lights in an opening below the front bumper, and integrated fog lights are also available as a dealer-installed accessory on other 2012 Civic models.

LED Brake Lights on Hybrid
The 2012 Civic Hybrids taillight system features attention-grabbing LED illumination for the brake lights and soft glowing surface lighting for the taillights. The sculpted, 3-dimensional look of the units adds a distinctive and technical styling element to the rear view of the Civic. Additionally, LED lighting uses less power and longer service life compared to traditional tungsten light bulbs, which is consistent with the vehicle’s emphasis on efficiency.

Fuel Tank
The Civics fuel tank constructed is located forward of the multi-link rear suspension. Its lightweight polypropylene design offers reduced weight, increased capacity, and reduced possibility of evaporative emissions. The composite design also minimizes weight and allows a generous fuel capacity (its capacity is 13.2 gallons, the same as for the previous generation Civic). The Civic also incorporates a returnless fuel supply system that helps reduce vapor generation.

Exterior Colors
The 2012 Civic offers a dynamic color palette that adds character and boldness to all Sedan and Coupe models. All-new colors for the 2012 Sedan include Dyno Blue Pearl, Cool Mist Metallic and Crimson Pearl. While on the 2012 Coupe, Dyno Blue Pearl and Cool Mist Metallic are new additions to the color lineup. Civic Coupe Si and Sedan Si models add a unique Sunburst Orange Pearl. All of the new for 2012 colors slightly change in appearance depending on sunlight conditions, further amplifying the Civics dramatic bodylines.

Civic Sedan Exterior Color Availability

Color
DX Sedan
LX Sedan
EX/
EX-L Sedan
Si Sedan
Hybrid
Natural Gas
HF
Tafetta White

X
X
X
X
X
X
Alabaster Silver Metallic
X
X
X
X
X
X

Polished Metal Metallic

X
X
X
X
X
X
Crystal Black Pearl

X
X
X
X

Dyno Blue Pearl
X
X
X
X

Cool Mist Metallic

X
X

X
X

Urban Titanium Metallic

X
X
X

Crimson Pearl

X
X
X

Sunburst Orange Pearl

X

Green Opal Metallic

X

Civic Coupe Exterior Color Availability

2012 Civic Accessories
A line of Honda Genuine Accessories was developed simultaneously with the 2012 Civic to provide vehicle personalization for the Honda owner. Like all Honda Genuine Accessories, the Civic accessories are covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty if installed by the dealer at the time of original vehicle purchase. Available accessories include:

Exterior

  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • 17-inch summer-only tires
  • Front underbody spoiler
  • Rear underbody spoiler
  • Side underbody spoiler
  • Body side molding
  • Door edge guards
  • Car cover
  • Full nose mask
  • Splash guards
  • Moonroof visor
  • Wheel locks
  • Fog lights
  • Remote engine starter
  • Engine block heater

Chassis Overview
The 2012 Civic chassis was developed to maximize driving enjoyment as well as passenger comfort. It features Hondas highly developed MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, Motion-adaptive electric power-assisted rack-and pinion steering (for excellent steering performance combined with improved fuel efficiency), and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), an electronic stability control system that works with the Civics Drive-by-Wire throttle system and 4-channel ABS systems to enhance vehicle control.

Regardless of whether it is a versatile Civic Sedan or Coupe, sporty Civic Si, or efficient Civic Hybrid, Civic Natural Gas or Civic HF model, every 2012 Honda Civic is both refined and fun to drive. The suspension is tuned to provide a sporty, solid and dynamic driving experience. The standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist uses ventilated front discs and rear drums, or 4-wheel discs on Civic EX, EX-L and Si models.

New Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) offers direct-feeling and efficient steering performance, together with improved active safety. On the previous generation models, EPS application was exclusive to the Civic Si and Civic Hybrid models.

2012 Civic EX Sedan chassis

Civic Chassis Highlights

  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Multi-link rear suspension
  • Motion-Adaptive Electric Steering (EPS)
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
  • 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (4-wheel disc on Civic EX, EX-L and Si models) with electronic brake distribution and brake assist
  • Front and rear stabilizer bars on all models (17mm front, 11mm rear) improve cornering response while reducing body roll during cornering

The basic architecture of the suspension for the 2012 Civic is similar to the previous-generation model. Changes have been made to components to refine ride and handling, and to reduce the intrusion of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) into the passenger cabin.

Compared to the previous-generation Civic, the most significant change to the platform is the additional use of high strength steel (up 10 percent to 55 percent in the Sedan and up 30 percent to 56 percent in the Coupe).

As well, a slightly shorter wheelbase (reduced 1.2 inches in the Sedan to 105.1 inches and reduced 1.1 inches in the Coupe to 103.2 inches) increases the feeling of agility as the car rotates around a geometrically shorter distance while turning. This improves overall maneuverability and the Civics fun-to-drive character. But at the same time, the overall length, width and height are the same as previous models, with increased interior roominess. The result is a more responsive car that is also roomier inside.

Chassis Summary
All Models

  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Multi-link rear suspension
  • Front and rear stabilizer bars
  • Power-assisted ventilated front disc brakes
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
  • 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist
  • Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS)

Civic Sedan and Coupe, Sedan Natural Gas and Sedan HF

  • 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers on Civic DX, LX
  • 15-inch aluminum wheels on Hybrid, NaturalL Gas and HF
  • 16-inch aluminum wheels on EX and EX-L
  • P195/65R15 all-season tires on DX, LX, Hybrid, Natural Gas and HF
  • P205/55R16 all-season tires on EX and EX-L
  • Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes on EX and EX-L

Civic Si

  • Front and rear high-performance springs, dampers and stabilizer bars
  • 17-inch aluminum wheels
  • P215/45R17 all-season tires
  • Available summer-only tires (Si Coupe)
  • Larger diameter ventilated front brake rotors with solid disc rear brakes

Civic Hybrid

  • 15-inch aluminum wheels that are exceptionally aerodynamic and lightweight
  • Low rolling resistance P195/65R15 tires
  • Regenerative braking system with unique parameters for the power-assist braking feature

Nimble, Confident Handling
A long 105.1-inch wheelbase for the Civic Sedan and 103.2-inch wheelbase for the Civic Coupe, wide front and rear track dimensions, advanced suspension design along with features such as VSA and Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) on all models contribute to the Civics confident handling. Specially tuned independent MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension provides a nimble and fun driving experience – while also providing the dynamic safety for which all Honda vehicles are known.

Front and Rear Suspension
The Civics suspension system uses a combination of MacPherson struts for the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. Using a strut-style front suspension makes more room available for crash reinforcement, and the multi-link rear suspension helps maximize second-row seating and cargo space- all while also providing outstanding handling characteristics and ride quality.

MacPherson Strut Front Suspension
The MacPherson strut front suspension is engineered to provide engaging performance and a responsive feel for the driver. Specially tuned bushings along with performance-calibrated geometry ensure optimal wheel alignment while turning for a solid and smooth handling feel. All models of Civic use a 17 mm diameter tubular front stabilizer bar, with the exception of the Civic Si that uses a more performance minded 18 mm tubular front bar.

Multi-Link Rear Suspension
The multi-link rear suspension includes stamped-steel upper A-arms, cast aluminum knuckles, double lower tubular lateral links, tubular-steel toe-control links, coil-over dampers and a large stabilizer bar. This suspension system provides excellent handling, together with a flatter ride and exceptional control of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). All models of Civic use a 11 mm diameter solid rear stabilizer bar, with the exception of the Civic Si that uses a more performance minded 15 mm solid rear bar for additional roll stiffness for improved cornering turn-in and body roll control.

Civic Si Exclusive Suspension Tuning

To achieve its elevated handling performance, the Civic Si has the following suspension tuning compared to the 2012 Civic Coupe:

  • Front spring rate increases
  • Rear spring rate increases
  • Sport-tuned front and rear damper settings
  • Larger front stabilizer bar (18 mm)
  • Larger rear stabilizer bar (15 mm)
  • Decreased overall vehicle height
  • Exclusive VSA setting
  • Exclusive EPS setting
  • 17-inch aluminum wheels
  • Limited-slip front differential

2012 Civic Si Coupe chassis

Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS)
The 2012 Civic is the first Honda in the North American market to use sophisticated new Motion Adaptive Electric Steering (EPS). The system incorporates new driving stability technology that initiates steering inputs which prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction during cornering and in slippery road conditions.

When VSA is activated, EPS quickly applies torque to help the driver steer in the ideal direction to stop the vehicle from swerving. When activated, the system provides unique steering wheel feedback to alert the driver, thus increasing confidence and control.

Using vehicle speed and steering angle data, Motion Adaptive EPS works with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Electric Power Steering to detect instability during slippery road conditions (in cornering and under braking) and automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at prompting the driver to steer in the correct direction. This new technology supports the driver’s action in operating the vehicle more safely and comfortably.

Noted are three examples of how Motion-Adaptive Electric Steering (EPS) functions in conjunction with VSA :

Stabilizes Braking – Corrects the drivers steering input to reduce vehicle instability when the vehicle is braking hard on road surfaces with different friction coefficients (such as pavement that is partially covered with dirt or snow)

Mitigates Understeer – Prompts the driver to not turn the steering too far in an effort to mitigate understeer

Mitigates Oversteer – Corrects the steering inputs to mitigate oversteer and help the driver trace the intended path of travel through the curve

Electric Power Steering (EPS)
With EPS, a sophisticated electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system takes the place of a conventional hydraulic power steering system. EPS responds almost instantly to steering input and automatically changes the amount of power assist based on the vehicles speed. By eliminating the conventional power steering pump assembly, EPS uses less engine power which improves acceleration and fuel efficiency.

The EPS system consists of a rack-and-pinion steering gear with an electric motor installed concentrically around the steering rack. To control the level of assist that the Powertrain Control Module receives, signals from a speed sensor (coupled with a steering sensor for torque and rotation) calculates the optimal amount of steering assist and then sends a signal to the electric motor.

When compared to the operation of a conventional hydraulic pump power steering system, the more simple and lightweight EPS system increases efficiency because it does not draw a continuous amount of power directly from the engine. Other advantages of electric power-assisted steering include its simplicity and compactness (no hydraulic system is needed to power it) and its lower power consumption, which helps improve fuel economy.

The steering ratio on all Civic models is 16.1:1, resulting in 3.1 turns lock-to-lock. All 2012 Civic models have a tilt and telescope steering wheel.

Disc Brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Civic DX, LX, Hybrid, Natural Gas and HF models are equipped with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, while the Civic EX, EX-L and Si models have 4-wheel disc brakes. Both systems incorporate 4-channel ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist as standard equipment.

The 4-channel ABS independently modulates braking power at each wheel to help the driver retain steering control during heavy braking. EBD automatically optimizes braking force between the front and rear wheels, helping to ensure that the Civic stops in the shortest distance possible regardless of the number of passengers or amount of cargo that it is carrying With EBD, Civic drivers will notice improved pedal feel and reduced brake fade under strenuous driving conditions. Brake Assist recognizes emergency braking situations and almost instantly applies full braking force when appropriate. (Please see Safety section for more information).

Civic DX, LX, Hybrid and HF models are equipped with 10.3-inch diameter ventilated front brake rotors (0.8-inch rotor thickness) clamped by single-piston brake calipers. At the rear are 7.8-inch diameter drum brakes. With Civic EX, EX-L and Si models, the rear drum brakes are replaced with disk brakes that incorporate 10.2-inch diameter solid rotors (0.4-inch rotor thickness) paired with single-piston brake calipers. Civic Si models are equipped with 11.8-inch rotors (1.0-inch thickness) paired with single-piston brake calipers. Additionally, the Civic Hybrids hydraulic brake booster cooperates electronically with the Engine ECU to provide optimum regenerative braking.

Wheels and Tires
The Civic Sedan and Coupe DX and LX ride on P195/65R15 tires mounted to 15×6-inch steel wheels with full covers. Civic Sedan and Coupe EX and EX-L models use P205/55R16 tires and 16×6.5-inch aluminum wheels. The Civic Hybrid, Natural Gas and HF use P195/65R15 tires with 15×6 aluminum wheels. With all Civic models, a space-saver spare tire is stowed within the trunk floor.

The use of larger wheels and tires contribute to the Civic Sis enhanced handling. The Civic Si comes with 17×7 inch aluminum wheels with P215/45R17 all-season tires. With the Civic Si Coupe and Sedan, available is a summer-only performance tire package.

The Civic Hybrid and Civic HF features P195/65R15 low rolling resistance tires mounted on lightweight and aerodynamic 15×6-inch alloy wheels.

The Civic model ranges specific tire and wheel sizes include:

Civic DX and LX Sedan

  • 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers
  • P195/65R15 all-season tires

Civic EX and EX-L Sedan

  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • P205/55R16 all-season tires

Civic Sedan Si

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • P215/45R17 all-season tires (summer tires available on non-navi sedans)

Civic Sedan Hybrid

  • 15-inch alloy wheels
  • P195/65R15 all-season tires

Civic Natural Gas

  • 15-inch alloy wheels
  • P195/65R15 all-season tires

Civic HF

  • 15-inch alloy wheels
  • P195/65R15 all-season tires

Civic DX and LX Coupe

  • 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers
  • P195/65R15 all-season tires

Civic EX and EX-L Coupe

  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • P205/55R16 all-season

Civic Si Coupe

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • P215/45R17 all-season tires (summer tires available)

Space-Saving Spare Tire
The spare tire is a space- and weight-saving T135/80D16 101M temporary unit that is mounted under a carpeted floor in the trunk.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Every 2012 Honda Civic includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
(Please see Safety section for more information.)

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
(Please see Safety section for more information.)

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