Honda Teases 2012 Civic Hatch Ahead Of Frankfurt Debut

Honda has released a handful of images and details for its upcoming 2012 Civic Hatch. The new model is currently undergoing final testing in Europe before making its global debut at September's Frankfurt Motor Show.

Visually, there's little of the new five-door to be seen, however it is clear that the 2012 model will retain at least some of the current hatch's styling, including the sloping bonnet and the rising belt line.

Like the current hatch, the new Civic five-door has been designed and developed in Europe as a separate model from the new sedan and hatch variants that hit the US market earlier this year.

Much of the new Civic's technical story remains untold, although it is reported that the current European-market 2.2 litre diesel will carry over, with a new smaller turbo-diesel to slot in below. 

Honda has also revealed that the 2012 Civic hatch will feature the familiar rear torsion beam system, but gaining fluid-filled compliance bushes designed to sharpen handling and ride quality.

Australia

The new European-built Civic Hatch and Thai-built Civic Sedan are expected to make their Australian debuts late in 2011, with specifications to be revealed closer to launch.