Honda will focus a lot of its attention over the coming months and years in further developing its ever-popular Civic model, including - for the first time - an estate version.
While Honda has given us no details about the upcoming model, we have a teaser shot of the concept. The new Civic Wagon is set to be showcased next year when the concept is built, and is destined to feature in Europe.
Also for the European market is the confirmation of a new Civic Type-R, set to go on sale in 2015. Honda aims to make the Type-R the leader in performance and handling in the hot hatch segment, using technologies developed for the WTCC (World Touring Car Championship) cars. The company also aims to set a world record at the Nürburgring for hot hatchbacks with the new model.
On a less exciting but far more practical front Honda has announced that its new 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine will feature in the Civic by the start of next year, and in the updated CR-V later in 2013. The new unit claims to be the lightest engine in its class and offers 300Nm of torque while emitting just 96g/km of CO2.
Hybrid technology is also on the company's agenda, with three different systems currently under development. Improved performance and longer battery life is planned for the existing single-motor system alongside a new two-motor system built for use in mid-sized vehicles. A three-motor system is also being developed; designed specifically for 'driving enhancement'. The Sport Hybrid SH-AWD set up will feature on the new Honda NSX.
As well as hybrid technology, Honda is set to launch an all-new Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle in 2015. Billed for launch to Japanese, American and European markets the new model will feature technological advances and cost reductions over the Clarity model that was launched in 2008.
Finally, Honda's latest Civic will debut in the WTCC later this month at Suzuka, with the company set to race the full season in 2013.