Eco-Friendly Option
The 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid

by Philip Raby

It is possible to make your neighbors green with envy in Honda's latest eco-friendly addition to the popular Civic line-up?

Well, yes and no.

You may feel morally superior zipping about town in your new gas-sipping compact, but not many people will understand the reason for your newfound smugness. That's because Honda's 2003 Civic Hybrid is so much like an ordinary car, that few people would ever know you're driving a vehicle equipped with the latest in ultra-low emission technology.

That means you'll just have to brag about it. And if your friends are easily impressed with technical jargon, you can tell them that the Hybrid is powered by Honda's innovative Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, coupled with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Basically, that means the Hybrid's primary power source is a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder gas engine. But when extra boost is needed on acceleration, an electric motor kicks in to provide added horsepower. Think of it as a gas motor with an electric turbo.

The CVT is a revolutionary piece of automotive technology that abandons the usual transmission gears in favor of two metal cones. The system works by varying the position of a high-strength steel belt between the cone. One cone connects to the power input of the transmission and the other connects to the power output side of the transmission. Through various guides within the transmission, the belt can slide up and down the cones to create the most suitable gear ratio for any speed and throttle input. The end results for drivers are smooth, seamless shifts, better torque and improved fuel efficiency. But for those who prefer a stick, a five-speed manual transmission is also offered on the U.S. model.

There are some other neat ideas at work here too. Each time the car comes to a complete stop at traffic lights, stop signs or even in gridlock, the gas engine shuts down to save fuel and reduce pollution. The batteries pick up the slack to keep the radio, lights, turn signals and even the air conditioning powered. Then, as soon as the brake pedal is released, the gas motor quietly comes back to life with the aid of the electric motor.

The only time the automatic idle stop feature disengages itself is when the AC is on and the driver has not selected the econo mode. In that event, the gas engine will keep running to prevent the air conditioning from drawing too much power.

Another gas saving feature kicks in when coasting. The Hybrid uses Honda's clever VTEC technology to shut down up to three of the four cylinders for added fuel economy and charging of the nickel-metal hydride batteries.

Best of all, unlike what we've come to expect from electric technology, there is no need for external charging. The Hybrid cleverly charges itself every time you apply the brakes (what the engineers call "regenerative braking").

Add to this low rolling resistance tires and a functional rear spoiler and front air dam to reduce drag, and you've got yourself a lean, mean driving machine.

So how does it drive? Well, pretty much like any other Civic on the road. It's well mannered yet spirited, ergonomically friendly and roomier than you might expect. And despite the small engine, it cruises effortlessly at normal highway speeds and even above with very little noise. In fact, the car is eerily quiet pretty much all of the time.

One of the only concerns noted with the car's behavior is its tendency to roll backwards on inclines when the brake is released from a dead stop. This is expected with the manual transmission, but comes as a surprise at first with the automatic engine. However, once you get used to that fact and learn to anticipate it, you can quickly put it behind you.

Another minor annoyance is the effect that the regenerative charging system has on the braking. You may find it difficult to brake smoothly as the batteries take what energy they can from slowing engine.

Once inside the cabin, however, everything is very smooth. All the modern conveniences are standard, including power locks and windows, CD player and air conditioning with automatic climate control and micron filtration.

Honda has also furnished the Hybrid with top quality fit and finish. The only compromise to the electric assist is the lack of a folding rear seat. This was necessitated by the well-concealed batteries that sit just behind the rear bench. Still, five adults can fit into the car and remain relatively comfortable, thanks to the flat floor in the back and the firm support of the seats.

One other minor difference between the Hybrid and regular Civics is the glowing, blue digital readout, which informs the driver of whenthe electric motor is assisting the gas engine or re-charging itself. This is a neat feature, though somewhat distracting until you get over the novelty.

The display also keeps tabs on the current charge level of the batteries and your gas mileage. Speaking of which, the Hybrid boasts a highway mpg of 51 and 46 in the city. That's about 30 per cent more efficient than the normal 1.7-liter engine found in the regular Civic.

But when you come right down to it, the unique dashboard display and he inconspicuous badging on the trunk are the only items that outwardly declare the car's enviro-friendly concept. All of which begs the question, if you're going to spend $19,550 for a Honda Civic, don't you want it to scream, "Look at me, I'm green!"

Fortunately, for American drivers, there's economy to be found even beyond the incredible gas mileage. Civic Hybrid owners can qualify for a $2,000 federal clean-fuel vehicle tax deduction.

Still though, this vehicle is not for the average economy car purchaser. You have to want to make a statement (albeit a subtle one) and do your part for the environment. However, it is a pleasant and rewarding way to do just that.

For more information on the 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid, click here.