Honda PH isn't selling base model Civic anymore

When the all-new Honda Civic first arrived in the country in late 2021, it was available in three distinct variants, S, V, and RS. But despite the varied price points between the three different models, all variants came with Honda Sensing across the board and come with a 1.5-liter turbocharged VTEC engine.

This meant that those that want a quick and sporty sedan need not get the most expensive variant of the Civic. In fact, when it was first launched several years ago, the entry-level Civic S retailed for PHP 1.290 million. Meanwhile, the V and RS variants used to sell for PHP 1.498 million and PHP 1.690 million, respectively.

Unfortunately, Honda Cars Philippines Inc (HCPI) has quietly axed the base model Civic. While we were browsing the automaker's website, we noticed that there were only 2 variants left of the sedan in the price section. We even checked the Civic's page and saw that the RS and V are the only models available.

Before its untimely demise, the Civic S used to retail for PHP 1.368 million. This translates to a PHP 78,000 increase from its initial price which ultimately hurt its value proposition. Sure it does come with Honda Sensing as standard but at a pretty high cost. As for the Civic V and Civic RS, the last two remaining variants currently sell for PHP 1.583 million and PHP 1.775 million, accordingly.

HCPI has yet to say why they dropped the Civic S from the local lineup. However, the reason behind it might have been caused by the arrival of new players, particularly the MG GT and the GAC EMPOW. Beginning with the former, MG's newest sports sedan is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 161 PS with 250 Nm of torque and is coupled to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. More importantly, it retails for PHP 1,193,888 which makes the Civic S more expensive by PHP 174,112.

The GAC EMPOW is also powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four but this one makes slightly makes more power than the MG at 168 PS and 270 Nm of pull. It too is connected to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox that drives the front wheels. Pricing for the GAC EMPOW starts at PHP 1.135 million which is even more affordable than the MG GT and Honda Civic.

If you're looking to get yourself a Honda Civic soon, the range will now start with the Civic V which is currently selling for over PHP 1.58 million.