HONDA has released the first images of the next generation of its popular Civic hatchback and the newcomer will be available with a hybrid-electric powertrain.

The car will be built overseas following Honda's decision to close its UK factory in Swindon where the previous Civic was made.

The Japanese auto maker says that the Civic remains one of its core models and the latest generation - the 11 since the model was launched in 1972 - builds on almost 50 years of heritage.

The new Civic will be offered exclusively as a hybrid, becoming the latest model to feature Honda's advanced e:HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) powertrain which meets its objective for all European mainstream models to feature electrified powertrains by 2022.

Already powering the recently-launched Jazz and Jazz Crosstar, the 2020 CR-V as well as the all-new HR-V on sale later this year, Honda says the hybrid powertrain will offer new Civic owners a blend of fun-to-drive performance and efficiency.

Further details are expected to be announced in the next few months and it is expected the car will be on the road in the UK during 2022.