When was the first generation Honda Civic released?

[OGavin]

Since the birth of the first-generation Civic in 1972, it has undergone 8 generations of evolution over 40 years. Through continuous advancements across these 8 generations, the Civic has earned unanimous recognition from over 20 million owners across more than 160 countries and regions worldwide. In 2006, the eighth-generation Civic officially entered the Chinese market. Development history of the first-generation Honda Civic: On July 11, 1972, the first-generation Civic was introduced. One of its hatchback variants featured a separately opening trunk design. The powertrain was equipped with Honda's EB-series 1.2L 2-valve inline four-cylinder engine, delivering a maximum power of 60 horsepower and maximum torque of 93 N·m, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission. Positioned as an economy car, the Civic had a 2200mm wheelbase and a curb weight of just 615kg. The vehicle could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 12.3 seconds, with a top speed of 143 km/h. Honda also launched a 3-door version, which was the more common full-opening hatchback design. The maximum power was increased to 69 horsepower. In May 1973, a Civic model equipped with Honda's Hondamatic 2-speed semi-automatic transmission was introduced. That same year, a 1.5L displacement engine was added, and Honda responded to consumer feedback by introducing a standard 5-door Civic variant. Later, the Civic entered the European market, where it secured third place in the "European Car of the Year" awards. In October 1974, the Civic Sport 1200RS model was released. This car still used the 1.2L engine, but with maximum power increased to 76 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. It could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 11.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 157 km/h. At that time, the 1.2L Civic's performance was already competitive with European-brand vehicles in its class.