Honda holds one very unique title: the only manufacture to build and sell a dedicated natural gas-powered passenger vehicle in the U.S. Based on the 2012 Civic, the alternative fuel variant has actually been around for a few years. Previously known as the Civic GX, the latest generation of natural gas Civic will hit Honda dealerships nationwide on October, 18. For the first time, Honda will expand the car’s market to 200 certified dealers across 38 states, much more than the last model which was only available in four states.
When the 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas hits showroom floors, it will carry with it a base MSRP of $26,155. Standard features include an all-new “intelligent” Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with five inch color display, bluetooth and USB audio connections. Available will be the 2012 Civic’s navigation package with pre-loaded Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling station locations. Under the hood is a modified version of the base Civic’s 1.8 liter inline four cylinder. A higher compression ratio, modified fuel injectors, valves, connecting rods, crankshaft and pistons were all added to make the engine compatible with CNG. Paired with a five speed automatic, the Civic Natural Gas will hit up to 38 mpg on the highway and average 27 mpg in the city. Fuel economy might be similar to a gasoline powered Civic, but CNG costs approximately 30 percent less than its counterpart. And the emissions are so low, that in some states, the Natural Gas qualifies for the High-Occupancy Vehicle lane.
Besides the specific navigation set up and different fuel type, the 2012 Civic Natural Gas is a new Civic. The suspension is still a front strut and rear multi-link set up, the interior is still larger than before and the body is still shaped just like the standard sedan. What the Natural Gas does however is offer a true alternative to the alternative.
Source: Honda
