2012 Honda Civic Spied Fully Exposed While Testing in Dubai [video]

For the first time the 2012 Honda Civic has been spied completely undisguised, with both photos and video showing the new compact sedan undergoing hot weather testing in Dubai. Looking not all that different from the current model, Honda seems to be moving away from its more provocative design language to a style that’s intended to not offend anyone.

The overall shape looks to be designed specifically for aerodynamic purposes and with a cabin that looks taller, there’s a resemblance to the first-gen Prius – although with harder lines.

According to Car Middle East, the cars being tested feature a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, which is much smaller than the current 1.8-liter unit. It’s not yet clear if Honda is planning to use direct-injection with this smaller displacement engine in order to keep power at a suitable level. The car does, however, have an ECON button that would upshift the transmission sooner for improved fuel economy.

Other changes include an interior with push buttons for the climate control rather than the traditional knobs.

We’ll be sure to keep an eye on the Civic and see just how close the production models stick to these prototypes.

[Source: Car Middle East]

Check out the video after the jump:

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