The new Honda Civic Type R is set to become the most powerful production Type R ever built.
Scheduled to arrive in Europe in early 2023, Honda has unveiled the latest Civic Type R as it celebrates 25 years of its iconic high-performance hatchback. Designed to deliver the ultimate driving experience, the new model has already set impressive performance benchmarks, including breaking the front-wheel-drive lap record at Japan’s Suzuka Circuit during development.
Design enhancements, lightweight components and extensive powertrain revisions have helped create what Honda describes as its most responsive and capable Type R to date.
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Designed for Ultimate Performance
Honda engineers developed the new model around the concept of “Ultimate Sports Design”, refining almost every aspect of the car.
The front wheels have been reduced from 20 inches to 19 inches, improving ride quality and handling. New air vents behind the front wheels, along with redesigned side skirt fins, help cool the brakes while improving aerodynamic efficiency by directing airflow away from the rear wheels.
Senior Vice President of Honda Motor Europe, Tom Gardner, said:
“Through exceptional advancements and the application of motorsport-derived technologies, Honda engineers have delivered the most rewarding driving experience yet in the performance hatchback segment.”
He added that the latest model surpasses even the lightweight special editions of its predecessor, continuing Honda’s commitment to performance that has defined the Civic Type R for the past 25 years.
A Cleaner, More Purposeful Design
The latest Civic Type R adopts a more mature and refined appearance while retaining its unmistakable performance identity.
The exterior features redesigned rear doors, wider wheel arches and improved aerodynamic elements developed specifically for the Type R. The signature rear wing remains, while the large lower front grille continues to maximise airflow to the engine.
A redesigned bonnet now incorporates a functional vent that further improves airflow across the front of the vehicle.
More Power Than Ever Before
Honda has also introduced a new triple-exhaust system, designed to enhance both engine performance and exhaust acoustics.
While the styling has become more restrained, Honda has stayed true to the Type R’s reputation for high-revving performance. Building on the previous generation’s acclaimed turbocharged engine, the latest model features an upgraded turbocharger and redesigned turbine blades to increase both power and torque.
Although Honda has yet to confirm official output figures, it has stated that this will be the most powerful and highest-torque Type R ever produced, making it the fastest production Civic Type R in the model’s history.
Improved Chassis and Handling
Development driver Tiago Monteiro praised the new model’s handling, commenting that:
“It’s very easy to drive and you don’t have to provoke it to oversteer.”
He also highlighted the car’s balance and responsiveness, particularly through fast directional changes.
Honda technical advisor Ko Yamamoto explained that significant improvements have been made to chassis rigidity, steering and suspension, resulting in sharper handling and greater driver confidence compared with the previous generation.
Pricing and Availability
Honda has not yet confirmed official UK pricing.
However, industry expectations suggest the new Civic Type R will cost more than the outgoing model, which started at around £33,000 when new.
The previous-generation Civic Type R finished production with widespread critical acclaim and remains one of the highest-rated hot hatchbacks of recent years.
If you’re a fan of performance hatchbacks, you may also enjoy our guide to the best cheap fast hatchbacks, which compares some of the finest affordable performance cars available today. You can also read our feature explaining BMW M Sport models, which explores another popular performance-focused option for enthusiasts.
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