Honda confirmed that both its new Civic hatchback for Europe and the next generation CR-V 4X4 will be built in Swindon, safeguarding the 3,000 jobs at its South Marston plant
And in a further boost, weekly production at the plant will return to normal levels in early September after the interuption in parts supply caused by the Japanese earthquake and tsunami earlier this year.
The new Civic – designed exclusively for Europe – will be the 9th generation of the popular hatchback. Honda’s first-ever Civic went on sale in 1972.
Production of the small family car will start later in the year at the Swindon plant, ahead of a sales launch in early next year.
Mark Trowbridge, director of quality and new model at Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM), which operates the Swindon plant, said: “Our Associates are all really excited to be producing the next generation of Civic here at Swindon.
“The next six months will be busy, as we ramp up to full production following the training and trial builds of the new car.
“The fact that we will be the only Honda plant in the world producing this hatchback version of the new Civic, makes us extremely proud of the highly-skilled and dedicated team we have working here in Swindon.”
The company’s decision to also produce the next generation CR-V at HUM is a further endorsement of the high quality of production at the plant. The new CR-V will go on sale in Europe from Autumn 2012.
Honda said parts supply from Japan has continued to improve significantly and HUM is aiming to recover volume quickly in order to respond to customer requirements.
The new Civic, which makes its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, was described by Honda today as “more confident, clever and versatile”.
“It will offer stand-out looks combined with class-leading space for passengers and luggage – and will continue to deliver peace of mind with low running costs, through Honda’s famed and unparalleled reliability,” said the company.
It also said quality and comfort levels have improved dramatically over the outgoing model.
Honda engineers concentrated a huge amount of time and effort improving ride quality and handling of the Civic, and through significant changes to the suspension set-up they have enhanced both comfort and body control.
“To give customers the biggest cabin and boot space in its market segment, the Civic retains a rear torsion beam suspension system – but the latest set-up uses clever fluid-filled compliance bushes to improve overall ride performance and handling. It has also been strengthened to give better stability, particularly at high speeds,” said a spokesman.
