Honda launched a Civic Si coupe ‘concept’ at the Chicago Auto Show, giving US buyers a preview of the 2006 model line scheduled to debut later this year.
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While US buyers usually opt for four-door sedan and two-door coupe versions, buyers elsewhere, particularly in Europe, opt for the three- or five-door hatchbacks also due out towards the end of ’05.
Honda said the production Si Coupe will serve as the performance leader for a completely redesigned 2006 model Civic line that will feature “more emotional styling, added performance and the latest generation of ‘intelligent’ i-VTEC engine technology”.
The US range, launching this autumn, will include a four-door sedan, a two-door coupe and Si Coupe, an even more fuel efficient Civic Hybrid and a natural-gas powered Civic GX (both are sedans). There was no mention of importing a sporty three door hatch from Britain to replace the current UK-sourced model.
The concept coupe has a 200-horsepower, 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC engine with an 8,000 rpm red line, mated to a close ratio six-speed manual transmission and helical-type limited slip differential.
Other features include 18-inch cast aluminum wheels, 225/40R18 high performance tyres and four-wheel disc brakes with large cross-drilled brake rotors and 4-piston Brembo callipers.
Special aerodynamic features include a full front and side aero kit, rear deck wing and a lower rear bumper diffuser with an integrated centre exhaust system.
The 2006 Civic Si Coupe will be the sixth generation Si, which first appeared as a three-door hatchback in 1986 with subsequent models appearing in 1989, 1992, 1999 and 2002.
The production Si coupe will make its world debut at the 2005 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in November, reflecting the Civic line’s popularity with aftermarket tuners.
The concept was designed at Honda R&D America’s Los Angeles design centre.
