Honda Civic HF: What does HF Mean

What does the HF mean for the 2015 Honda Civic HF?

For every brand there are fans who can tick off the whole history of the vehicle lineup without losing a beat, and often times those of us deeply embedded in the industry forget that this history is long and complicated. Those who have never owned a Honda before may find it confusing to shop for a 2015 Honda Civic only to find there are seven different models to choose from before even diving down into the various trim levels. Today we’re looking at one such model and answering the common question: What does the HF mean for the 2015 Honda Civic HF?

The Civic HF isn’t the first of its kind

In 2012 Honda released the first Honda Civic HF, which was help up as possibly the most fuel-efficient vehicle to become available.  What often goes ignored is the fact it isn’t the first of its kind. This important because one of the many reasons an acronym may not be explained is because its history  is well-known to those who have been following along with the history. Back in the mid-80s to early 90s there was the CRX HF, which was known for its ultra-high fuel-efficiency. This HF moniker has been reused, again to mean High Fuel economy. Why no HFE? We guess it just doesn’t look as cool. 

Why is today’s HF less High Fuel than the past?

Those familiar with the older CRX HF may remember it for its outrageous fuel economy, with the EPA-estimated highway mpg rated at 51 rather than today’s 41*. The 2015 Civic HF may be the most fuel-efficient gasoline-only option on the market, but why is it less efficient than the past? Well, the quick answer is that drivers today demand more power and a more spacious interior. Safety standards have also increased dramatically over the past 30 years, which adds quite a lot of weight to modern vehicles. We also have far fewer bare bones interiors, with more technology, comfort and parts that create a stiffer suspension to create smoother rides with less noise. Which, again, means more weight. Our vehicles are much heavier than those in the past, which is partly because of our own desires and partly because of an increase in regulations.

We hope this cleared up any confusion about the 2015 Honda Civic HF. If you’re interested in learning more about any feature, acronym or any other detail about the Honda lineup, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to discuss it with you or here on our blog.