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The first export models of the all-new UK-built Honda Civic hatchback have set sail from Southampton to the US ahead of their showroom debut in September.
Honda confirmed that production of the tenth generation model for the UK and Europe would begin later this year with sales starting in the first quarter of 2017. The European model is expected to be visually similar to its US counterpart.
Honda’s plant in Swindon is the global production hub for the Civic hatchback following a £200m investment by the carmaker. The Civic is Honda’s biggest selling nameplate worldwide.
“Production of the hatchback for the UK market will commence towards the end of 2016, with sales beginning in the first quarter of 2017,” said Philip Webb, head of cars at Honda UK.
“Our factory in Swindon will also export the model to other key markets around Europe and the rest of the world.”