HONDA has unveiled its new Civic, the 11th generation of a car that has sold more than 27.5 million units across 170 countries since the badge was launched in 1972.

It features Honda's proven e:HEV powertrain that mixes a 2.0 litre petrol engine and two electric motors for a combined output of 181bhp and the potential for up to 56mpg in official tests.

The Civic is known for being a family oriented hatchback and Honda says 11th generation - on sale in the autumn - is no exception, providing more space and usability than ever before. The 35mm longer wheelbase has allowed designers to create a more expansive and comfortable cabin space as well as improving dynamic performance and straight-line stability.

Inside, the horizontal style of the dashboard emphasises the width of the cabin which, when combined with a wider field of vision gives a truly airy and open feeling, says Honda.

OnAdvance grade the drivers' display now features a 10.2-inch HD colour LCD panel for improved visibility.

The size of the central touchscreen has been increased to nine inches and has been moved upwards to minimise up-and-down eye movement. The system comes complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility to keep occupants connected on the move.

Elegance and Sport grades feature eight speakers while the Advance grade features 12 premium BOSE speakers for a 'concert like' audio experience.

Advanced and efficient e:HEV powertrainUnder the bonnet, the two electric motors work together to provide the primary drive force for the new Civic. Sitting under the rear seats is the latest version of Honda's Intelligent Power Unit and while smaller and lighter, it benefits from an increased energy density.

This powertrain is capable of shifting between EV, Hybrid and Engine drive with no input from the driver. Four drive modes - Eco, Normal, Sport and a new Individual mode, which allows separate control of the engine, transmission and cluster gauge display, can be selected by the driver to tailor the vehicle response as required.

The 11thgeneration Civic features a 35mm longer wheelbase and wider rear track over its predecessor to help deliver improved straight-line and cornering performance, while new low friction ball joints and revised front damper enhance the dynamic feel.

The new model will also be the first Civic to adopt a newly designed structure for the body stabilising front seats, providing greater stabilisation and comfort for occupants.

The latest Civic also features Honda's expanded SENSING suite of advanced safety features and driver aids. A new 100-degree front wide-view camera and enhanced recognition technology improve the Civic's capacity to identify pedestrians, road lines, boundaries, other vehicles including motorcycles and cyclists.

For the first time, the Civic is equipped with sonar sensors - four at the front and four at the rear. In addition to improved Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist and i-ACC technology, Low Speed Braking Control, Blind Spot Information, Cross Traffic Monitor and Traffic Jam Assist are all additions to the Civic's comprehensive active safety offering.