2023 is the 50th year of the Honda Civic and it has also been 25 years since the brand’s iconic high-performance Type R model stormed into the market. To mark this significant milestone year, Honda has launched the new Civic Type R as the most powerful Type R ever.
Based on the latest 11th generation Civic hatchback version, the new Civic Type R has advancements and application of motorsport-derived technologies that allow it to exceed the capabilities of even the stripped-out, lightweight version of the previous model.
Developed under the model concept of creating the ‘Ultimate Sports 2.0’, the new Type R builds on the sleek form of the latest Civic. To present a sportier look, the body is noticeably lower and wider in stance. The squat form is enhanced through wheelarches that flare out over lightweight 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, shod with specifically developed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.
The exterior design now conveys a sense of unity, with uncluttered details on the front and rear bumpers as well as integrated design features such as the rear doors and arches, which have all been exclusively developed for the Type R and bring improved aerodynamic benefits.
The large lower grille (with a larger fan behind it) maximises airflow to the engine, and works in unison with the new, subtle bonnet that now features a vent to again maximise airflow around the front end. Other design details that help maximise aerodynamics include the large aperture vents behind the front wheels and a new, larger rear diffuser that is integrated directly into the under-floor – itself shaped to work in unison with the bodywork above.
The dramatic new rear spoiler design further contributes to downforce generation and has been angled rearward to suppress air resistance. Supported by new aluminium die-cast mounts, the rear wing sits lower but wider than the previous model, accentuating the sleek new roofline and wider stance.
Under its new vented aluminium bonnet, there’s an even more powerful version of Honda’s K20C1 engine. Horsepower, torque and response are improved by a redesigned turbocharger, increased air intake flow rate, and a new more efficient exhaust system that features a straight-through design and an active exhaust valve. The size, shape and number of the turbocharger’s turbine wheel blades have been optimized along with the flow path of the intake charge, enabling the turbocharger to generate pressure in a wider range and more efficiently.
The turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC VTEC engine now produces 315 bhp at 6,500 rpm and 420 Nm of torque at 2,600 – 4,000 rpm. This makes the Type R is one of the most powerful cars in its class per litre, with a specific output of 157.8 bhp/litre, up from the previous-generation’s 153.3.
The transmission is a manual 6-speeder, further improved with a lighter flywheel and a revised rev-match system. The perfectly paired rev-matching when shifting down through the gears helps maintain stability on corner entry. The high-strength gearbox has also gained a high-rigidity lever and optimized shift gate pattern for a reassured and hyper-precise gearchange. A standard helical-type limited-slip differential puts the engine’s power to the pavement effectively.
The driver can seamlessly switch between performance settings, with pre-set modes for the engine, steering, suspension and engine sound. In addition to Comfort, Sport and +R modes, a new ‘Individual Mode’ has been introduced to enable customisation of the driving experience.
The upgraded Brembo braking system retains the 2-piece discs from the previous generation for improved feel and longevity. To further strengthen the driver’s connection with the car, the active exhaust valve opens at higher rpm to heighten and enhance the sound of the engine.
The cockpit of the new Type R has emotive, performance-focused details and features, including the iconic red seats, carpet and trim, a redesigned aluminium shift knob, and a serialized Type R plate on the dashboard. To better support performance driving, the exclusive new digital instrument cluster features clean, easy-to-read graphics and an extensive selection of displays. The design has a large tachometer and gear-position display, plus a multi-information display.
A second new meter design is exclusive to Type R’s +R mode and allows the driver to obtain necessary information instantly, with the engine rpm, and gear position placed at the top. A racing-inspired illuminated rev indicator located above the gauge cluster gives the driver a quick indication of engine rpm during performance driving.
Technology has been smartly integrated into the new cabin with a focus on the driver, including a new 9-inch Colour Touchscreen – the largest touchscreen ever in a Type R – with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Qi-compatible wireless charging and a Bose Centrepoint premium sound system, which was custom for the interior of the Civic are also standard.
Exclusive to Type R, a new enhanced version of the Honda LogR Performance Datalogger combines the Type R’s onboard computer and sensors with a new built-in vehicle app (no need to use the smartphone). This helps drivers monitor and record a variety of performance parameters in real time when driving on the track or other closed courses.
Key features include a stopwatch to record lap times, a tyre friction circle in 3D motion that displays the maximum tyre force the vehicle can achieve, and an innovative scoring function that helps drivers improve their skills on the track. Users can share their lap times and other data with other Type R owners.
The driver sits lower than before in new, lighter, body-stabilizing sport seat, yet with greater visibility, thanks to the thinner pillars, relocated side mirrors, and a lower bonnet. The lightweight, heavily bolstered front sports seats with suede-effect upholstery offer both exceptional support and comfort on the track and during long drives.
Built at the Yorii Plant in Japan (but the engine continues to be built at Honda’s factory in the USA), the Civic Type R will be offered in body colours that include the historic Championship White, Rallye Red, as well as Racing Blue, Crystal Black and Sonic Grey Pearls.
Visit www.honda.com.my to know more about Honda models available in Malaysia.
