Following up with the launch of the all-new 11th-generation Civic last year, Honda has now unveiled the souped-up Civic Type R, as it celebrates 25 years of the iconic hot hatch.
The all-new Honda Civic Type R represents a stark contrast in terms of appearance when compared to its predecessor. While the FK8R had an over-the-top boy-racer look, the all-new model sports a more matured, grown-up appearance, at least on the outside.
Aside from the big rear wing, larger wheels, vented bonnet, and red Honda badges, the rest of the all-new Civic Type R is almost… too subtle – you’ll have to really know what you’re looking for to even tell the difference. Not that we’re complaining, though; we’ve never been too big fans of the FK8R’s shouty looks anyway.
Just as the previous generation models, the all-new Honda Civic Type R is based on the hatchback model, although it’s noticeably lower and wider in stance. The wheel arches are flared out to house the 19-inch matte black alloys, which creates quite a nice contrast, especially when paired to the Type R-exclusive Historic Championship White paint job.
Honda says that all of the new aerodynamic surfaces are actually functional, too. The large lower grille of the bumper works in conjunction with the bonnet air scoop to maximise airflow to the intercooler and engine block, while the large aperture vents behind the front wheels help cool down the brakes and reduce air buffeting.
There’s also a massive rear diffuser round the back, which is integrated directly into the under-floor, working in unison with the shorter but wider rear wing to enhance overall downforce of the car, without adding too much air resistance. While we’re at the back, the all-new Honda Civic Type R also gets an updated version of the now-iconic updated triple-outlet exhaust in the centre of the CTR-exclusive bumper.
The interior of the all-new Civic Type R builds off of the 11th-generation Honda Civic’s fantastic cabin, which means the general improvements in usability, comfort, and seating position are all also carried over.
It’s not as boring as it sounds, fortunately, as Honda has also suitably spruced up the interior with the Type R’s signature red trims. And it’s really quite a lot – the seats, which used to be red with black accents, are now entirely red. The carpet (below the floor mats), which used to be black, are also now completely red.
The interior updates aren’t just for show, however. Honda says that the driver now seats lower than before, and the red suede-effect upholstery also help keep the driver glued to the lightweight racing seats during hard cornering.
The Honda LogR driving data logger has also been heavily updated in the latest-generation Civic Type R, and now combines performance data collected by in-car sensors with a smartphone app, to help drivers monitor and record a variety of metrics in real-time, which will be especially useful during high-octane hot laps on the track.
Key features on the new system include a stopwatch to record lap times, a 3D vehicle motion display, “tyre friction circles” that displays the maximum tyre force the vehicle can achieve on each corner, and even a new scoring function that’s meant to help drivers improve their skills on the track, improving lap times.
As for performance, the familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine and six-speed manual transmission returns, with incremental updates including a revised turbocharger, exhaust system, and an optimised shift gate pattern. Honda hasn’t revealed any performance our output figures yet, but says that it will be “one of the most powerful per litre cars in its class”.
Despite Honda’s secretive approach, the all-new CTR has already proven its might, recently setting a new front-wheel drive lap record at Suzuka. The suspension and steering have also been tuned at the Nurburgring to be more responsive and precise, and the Brembo high-performance brakes are also upgraded for improved feel and longevity.
The Civic Type R also gets an exclusive +R drive mode, with everything turned up to 11 for maximum performance. Drivers who want more precise control, however, can use the new ‘Individual Mode’ to further fine tune the settings for engine, steering, suspension, and engine sound.
The all-new Honda Civic Type R will go on sale next year, with first deliveries to customers in Europe beginning in early 2023.
GALLERY
