Honda Civic e:HEV RS Launched – Sporty 2.0L Hybrid, 181 HP, from RM166K

Honda Malaysia officially launched the all-new Honda Civic e:HEV RS, a brand-new and range-topping variant in the current 11th-gen Civic line up for Malaysia. The Civic e:HEV RS marks several firsts, including the adoption of a new 2.0-litre e:HEV hybrid powertrain.

The all-new Civic e:HEV RS also sees Honda Malaysia grow its e:HEV models line up for the local market, with this latest C-segment entry joining alongside other e:HEV offerings – the City, City Hatchback and HR-V.

In this new range-topping Civic, Honda’s proprietary e:HEV hybrid powertrain package consists of a 2.0-litre nat-asp petrol 4-cyl primed with direct injection – also a first the Civic – that works in tandem with two electric motors.

Said hybrid power plant is paired with an e-CVT transmission plus an Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) system that not only promises excellent power delivery, but also better efficiency than the petrol-powered Civic. Altogether, this package outputs about 181 HP and 315 NM, thus making it the peppiest variant of the 11th-gen Civic on sale now, and perhaps the peppiest in segment too.

In terms of styling, the Civic e:HEV RS retains the familiar sporty RS trim with the special addition of chromed finishing all around the car. The headlights also get treated with chrome outer ring surround, whilst the front grille and door handles now boast half-black half-chrome finishes. The unique blue-hued ‘H’ emblem on both ends also helps to distinguish this new range-topper apart from its petrol-powered siblings, as does its 18-inch dual-tone wheels in place of blacked-out ones seen in the non-electrified Civic RS.

On board, Honda has introduced a new 10.2-inch full-TFT driver’s metre panel for the first time. This massive display features four distinctive design layouts for drivers to choose, providing drivers options to display any types of information they need. Additional interior key features include the wireless charging pad that goes well with its wireless mobile phone connectivity – with both Apple Car Play and Android Auto available via its 9-inch Advanced Display Audio infotainment display.

Novel key feature for the new Civic e:HEV RS is the Key Card. First-time introduced by Honda Malaysia, the Key Card boasts wireless entry and engine start functions, thus enabling a more seamless entry for users too.

Taking cabin comfort to another level is Honda’s introduction of Active Noise Control (ANC) and Active Sound Control (ASC). Both ANC and ASC work in-tandem in reducing outside noise, while enhancing the engine sound to provide additional comfort for both drivers and passengers alike.

As for safety, the Civic e:HEV RS comes fully-equipped with the latest Honda SENSING package, in addition to novel Honda LaneWatch camera, Walk Away Auto Lock, Remote Engine Start, Rear Seat Belt Reminder as well as Driver Attention Monitor.

One key safety feature present is the Honda CONNECT system that provides additional safety, security and convenience for Civic e:HEV RS users. This suite provides Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Applications, Security Applications, as well as Vehicle Tracking and Support Services, amongst many other functions, should emergency situations arise.

A total of four colourways will be offered for the new Civic e:HEV RS, namely Ignite Red, Meteoroid Grey, Platinum White Pearl and Crystal Black Pearl. As for price, things start from RM166,500.00 sans insurance. Included though is Honda Malaysia’s usual 5-year, unlimited warranty coverage plus an additional 8-year, unlimited mileage warranty on the hybrid battery system alone.

As for the waiting period, Honda Malaysia says orders for the Civic e:HEV RS presently stands at a minimum of 2-3 months. Notably, this quicker delivery time for the new range-topper is much shorter compared to its petrol-powered twins, which currently takes 8 months at minimum.