Honda unveiled the seventh generation of the Civic hatchback in 2001 to answer the growing market for that type of vehicle.
It was the first Civic diesel as well.

After selling more than 13 million Civics worldwide, Honda tried to expand its seventh generation with three body versions: sedan, 3- and 5-door hatchback. The latter was supposed to replace the station-wagon version from its predecessor.

With sharp angles and curved body panels, the five-door version was not the best looking car in its class. It was the reason why this version was not as successful on the market. The short hood and tall greenhouse made the car looks like it was missing a part: either a bigger rear area as a station-wagon or a trunk in a three-box style. The taillights were installed on the corners like the designers forgot to draw them and added them at the last minute.

Inside, there was a different story. The gearstick was mounted on the center stack, leaving the center console clean. The instrument cluster was the same Honda-style, easy to read and uncomplicated. The black dashboard with silver air vents was the only option. In the back, the bench was fit for up to three passengers with enough legroom and headroom but limited hip and shoulder room.

Honda was known for its rev-happy VTEC engines, and the seventh-generation offered the magnificent 2.0-liter 201 hp unit, but only for the three-door version. The 5-door received a 1.6-liter unit available in two power outputs. For diesel fans, it offered a 1.7-liter four-cylinder built by Isuzu. Since all three of them were fuel-efficient, the diesel version didn’t have too many buyers.