Stellar Performance

The remarkably fuel-efficient* Civic Hybrid is a marvel of technological innovation.

Powerfully Efficient
The Honda hybrid technology Integrated Motor Assist IMA® system consists of a super-efficient 1.3-liter, 8-valve, i-VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a lightweight, high-output electric motor, which adds extra power when needed.

Uncannily Smooth
The Civic Hybrid is equipped with an uncannily smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT), which blends the ease of an automatic with the efficiency of a manual. An idle-stop feature automatically shuts off the Hybrid's gasoline engine when you stop, so you save gas and help keep the air cleaner.

* EPA-estimated 40 city/45 hwy mpg. Based on 2008 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Performance Features

• 1.3-Liter, 8-Valve, i-VTEC 4-Cylinder Engine
  The Civic Hybrid features a highly efficient, 1.3-liter, 8-valve, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and DC brushless electric motor that are designed to coexist with the environment in a very friendly way.

• Electric Motor
  The IMA electric motor works in conjunction with the gasoline engine, and supplies additional torque in assist mode. The motor's ultra-thin design allows it to be mounted between the engine and the transmission. The motor also functions as the generator for the IMA system during deceleration, and as a starter, quickly spinning the engine up to idle speed.

• Idle-Stop Feature
  The Civic Hybrid is equipped with an "idle-stop" feature that temporarily turns off the engine to save fuel and minimize emissions. A green auto-stop light on the instrument display flashes to indicate when the idle-stop feature is operating. As the Hybrid comes to a stop, the idle-stop occurs automatically. Engine restarting occurs automatically, as soon as the brake pedal is released.

• Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System
  Instead of a mechanical linkage from the accelerator to the fuel-injection throttle, the Civic Hybrid uses "Drive-by-Wire" technology. The system uses an electronic position sensor connected to the accelerator pedal that sends an electronic signal to the PCM controller.

Aticle by http://automobiles.honda.com/civic-hybrid/performance.aspx