Honda has unveiled the inevitable Type R version of its new Civic, set to go on sale in early 2023, completing the previously announced lineup of the model with a hybrid-only 182-horsepower engine.
The new Type R retains the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as its predecessor, although the brand claims it is now more powerful (final power figures are yet to be disclosed) thanks to a new turbocharger and system revisions, now tripled and optimized for sound modulation.
The brand also announced improvements to the 6-speed manual transmission, featuring a revised system that matches engine speed with the selected gear through automatic acceleration of the mechanism. Honda also insists it has enhanced the gear lever’s feel. Another mechanical improvement is a new radiator that enhances engine temperature control.
The Brembo brake system has been updated, 19-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires are mounted, and the controlled suspension remains in three predefined modes: Comfort, Sport, and +R Intervention Define Direction. These modes affect steering, engine response, suspension, and sound, with individual modes added so each driver can customize the car to their liking.
The aesthetics are not as aggressive as the previous generation, although it features widened fenders, specific front and rear bumpers, a larger lower-positioned grille, a hood with air outlets, side fins behind the front wheels, an integrated larger rear diffuser, and a rear wing that increases aerodynamic load and is slightly moved backward.
This spoiler is supported by two aluminum casting brackets and is wider than the previous model.
The Civic Type R will be available in pearl blue, red, black, or silver.
Inside, it maintains the usual red interior of the Type R, lowers the driving position to minimize blind spots, and installs front sports-style seats that provide greater support to the driver’s body.
The Type R, which recently set the Suzuka lap record for a front-wheel-drive vehicle, is equipped with an updated Honda LogR data logging system, which is compatible with a mobile app and allows the driver to record various real-time measurements, such as lap times, a 3D graph of the maximum tire friction achieved, and a scoring function to help drivers improve their track technique.
Honda has announced that the model will arrive in Europe in early 2023. If you’re interested in buying a Civic, you can find all the existing offers on yacarros.com at this link: Honda Civic Deals.
