Currently reading: Honda to keep 'practical' design language

Japanese manufacturer will continue to prioritise practicality over sports styling, despite more outrageous designs like the new Civic Type R and NSX

Honda design will continue to emphasise practicality over head-turning looks, according to chief operating officer Testsuo Iwamura.

Honda's return to the sports car and hot hatch arena with the new NSX and Civic Type R had raised suggestions that the brand would adopt more sporty styling across its range, but Iwamura scotched the reports.

"Our styling principles have been about achieving maximum space for the driver and passengers while trying to create powertrains that can sit in the minimum space," said Iwamura. "Above all, our focus is on good visibility for anyone in the car.

"Accordingly, our styling is a bit different from that of some of our rivals. Some manufacturers try to go to extremes and create sharp, dynamic styling, but our principles - which are backed by our customers - are focused on visibility and the trends according to current styles.

"That is the way Honda thinking is. We are not shifting direction up, down or sideways. Our design is accepted by our customers and we will stick to those principles."

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Honda Civic Type-R
Honda's new Civic Type R is powered by a 306bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged four cylinder engine

Probably the most capable front-wheel-drive car in production today, with only limited edition specials getting close

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kcrally 13 March 2015

jazz vs fiesta vs polo

jazz vs fiesta vs polo
audiolab 13 March 2015

Not about head turning looks...

I am afraid that is exactly what the Civic achieves, not to tidy at the front and then you catch the rear ugh. Don't know how they can even put forward this approach when the evidence contradicts it totally.
artill 13 March 2015

I am sure it would be

I am sure it would be possible to stick to the good principals of visibility and passenger space without surrounding the car mechanicals and occupants in designs that stop people from buying their cars. However i am not convinced the civic even does that.... Statements like this must be very depressing for people who work in Honda dealerships.