New Civic Hatchback on Tap for Geneva Debut

Honda Motor Co. will preview the hatchback version of its 10th-generation Civic compact car with a prototype model at next month’s Geneva auto show.

The carmaker launched the all-new Civic sedan last year in the U.S. A coupe variant, which was displayed last autumn at the Los Angeles auto show, is due to bow this spring.

The 5-door hatchback is expected to hit the streets in early 2017, starting with a European rollout. Honda will build the vehicle exclusively at its Swindon, U.K., facility, which will export it to the U.S. and other global markets. Production of the CR-V compact crossover in Swindon will be shifted to Canada.

A teaser image of the hatchback’s rear-end reflects the styling of the Civic sedan and coupe, including distinctive boomerang-shaped taillights. A dual exhaust system and roof-mounted spoiler provide a sporty feel.

Engine choices in Europe are expected to include a turbocharged 1.0-liter 3-cylinder unit, a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-banger and a carryover 1.6-liter diesel. The 1.5-liter engine is available in the U.S. Civic sedan with a continuously variable transmission. A 6-speed manual transmission likely will be offered too.