The global reveal of the highly anticipated 2023 Honda Civic Type R is just around the corner, promising to be a track beast akin to its predecessor. Set to be unveiled during the summer, this new model is already making waves, breaking records and setting a new benchmark in its category.
A development prototype of the upcoming Civic Type R has recently achieved a groundbreaking feat by setting a new lap record for front-wheel-drive cars at the Suzuka International Racing Course. Clocking in at an impressive 2:23.12, this lap time surpassed the previous record held by the lightweight and track-focused 2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition by 0.873 seconds. Notably, the prototype achieving this feat is expected to be the standard version, whereas the previous record holder was a fully track-centric model.
As the 2023 Honda Civic Type R hits the stage, it is poised to go head-to-head with formidable competitors like the upcoming Toyota GR Corolla, Cupra Leon VZx, Volkswagen Golf R, as well as the Hyundai i30 N, Renault Megane RS Trophy, and Audi S3, among others. Expected to feature a gasoline engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, Honda is likely to introduce an evolution of the current 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which previously generated 228kW of power and 400Nm of torque.
Despite being shrouded in camouflage since October 2021, certain exterior features have been discerned. The front sports a clean central air intake with simplified bumper inserts compared to the demanding low-set air intakes of the previous model. A prominent front splitter breaks the flow and complements the flared wheel arches, complete with a vent at the rear of the front arches to reduce pressure at high speeds. Emphasizing real aerodynamic gains, a crucial aspect for Honda, the flared fenders merge with distinctive side skirts reminiscent of the outgoing Type R.
The rear showcases a notable addition—a new rear wing. Unlike its predecessor, this wing is mounted on slender motorsport-inspired struts and sits higher on the trunk lid. Below the bumper, three exhaust pipes, akin to the previous model, feature a larger center tip flanked by two smaller ones. These are surrounded by a rear diffuser that appears to contribute not just to aesthetics but potentially to the overall aerodynamic downforce of the car.
While only a glimpse of the interior is visible in the Suzuka lap record video, expectations are that it will draw inspiration from the existing interior of the 2022 Honda Civic. Upon its local arrival, the new Civic Type R will share the spotlight with the regular Civic hatchback and the next-generation HR-V SUV, further expanding Honda’s dynamic lineup. With the standard Civic already available and the new HR-V set to debut on April 19, 2022, at Honda showrooms, the anticipation for the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is reaching a fever pitch.
