Gustman Honda

For the first time since 2006 the Honda Civic is being redesigned, and the concept for 2012 has been released through sketches online.

The drawing "conveys the sleek and aerodynamic profile of the show vehicle," says Honda. "The production version of the ninth-generation 2012 Civic based on the revealed concept will go on-sale in spring 2011. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales, will introduce the concept vehicle at a press conference."

Based on the sketch, CNET says Civic will be "heavily restyled" and have a sporty look. "One notable element is the roof, which appears to be…

Recently Honda has come out to say that all of their models are built to be hybrid ready. Honda President Takanobu Ito says that approximately 10 percent of Honda's overall sales will be hybrids by 2015. These models were all made with hybrid in mind, in order to have a fast turnover from gas to hybrid ready rides.

Kohei Hitomi, chief engineer of the Honda Fit, was asked by Honda management to make the Fit easily adaptable into a hybrid. Hitomi built in extra space below the rear floorboard, making room for a potential electric motor in the engine…