This engine employs an "intelligent" i-VTEC system that switches the valve timing for maximum efficiency during takeoff and acceleration to achieve powerful performance with excellent torque output, and then delays intake valve closure timing during cruising and other low-load conditions for enhanced fuel economy.
Honda claims that the use of the valve timing control system gives this engine the performance of a 2-litre engine but the economy of a 1.5-litre unit.
With the new i-VTEC engine, intake valve closure timing is delayed to control the air intake volume, allowing the throttle to open wider under low-load conditions for a major reduction in pumping loss of up to 16%.
Overall, the new engine delivers a high level of performance with maximum output of 103 kW and maximum torque of 174 Nm.
The more powerful engine is both lighter and shorter than the current Civic 1.7-liter engine, and quieter as well.
The Civic will also be available with a 2.2-litre turbodiesel unit.
It is expected that the new Civic's design will be very similar to that of the radical looking concept car which was shown at the Geneva Motor Show.