2024 Honda Civic facelift for Japan – hatchback only; new RS variant with six-speed manual, 1.5T added

Honda has released initial images and details of the 11th generation Civic gets facelift before its launch in the Japanese market this fall. Unlike Malaysia, which has the Civic in sedan form, Japan only has the model in hatchback form.

The big news with the facelift is the introduction of the RS variant, first previewed by a “prototype” at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show. It’s powered by the same 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four petrol engine that produces 182 PS (180 hp or 134 kW) and 240 Nm of torque as the pre-facelift EX and LX trims, but with a six-speed manual transmission driving the front wheels.

Like the Type R, there’s a rev-matching function for those who don’t like to heel-and-toe downshifts. Other performance tweaks include RS-specific suspension tuning, a five-millimeter lower ride height and drive modes, while the aesthetics are improved with RS badges and more black accents.

The Civic’s front bumper has been redesigned, while the RS gets slightly larger air dams at the corners. The rear of the RS also appears to have more exposed exhaust pipes than the other variants. Buyers can also choose from a range of accessories, including a rear spoiler, fog lights, as well as bumper trim and side skirts.

In addition to the RS, the Civic will also be offered with Honda’s e:HEV hybrid powertrain in the LX and EX trims. These are likely to use the same 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four petrol engine that produces 141 PS (139 hp or 104 kW) and 182 Nm, which acts as a generator to charge the battery that powers a front-mounted electric motor rated at 184 PS (181 hp or 135 kW) and 315 Nm. At higher speeds, the engine provides direct drive to the wheels via a lock-up clutch for better efficiency.

PHOTO GALLERY: Honda Civic facelift 2024 (Japanese market)

PHOTO GALLERY: Honda Civic facelift 2024 accessories (Japanese market)

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