The Civic Type R’s reputation precedes itself – most people would know that the red ‘R’ badge stands for The Fast One, even if they’re not an “enthusiast” by any measure. That’s at least in part due to the Type R’s notorious “boy racer” vibes, which has been a staple of the model’s design language since the very first one back in 1997.
This sixth-generation Civic Type R (based on the 11th-generation Honda Civic), though, has seemingly shed its juvenile styling for a more mellow, grown-up look. So does this RM400K FWD hero still deserving of its hefty nameplate? Well, we’ve got a full review of the all-new 2024 Honda Civic Type R (linked here) to answer that question. But for now, here’s a detailed gallery to whet your appetite.
Of course, looks are a subjective matter. But if you ask us, the sixth-generation Civic Type R is definitely the most handsome of the bunch. Gone are the brute and garish lines on its predecessor, replaced by a sleek yet commanding silhouette. If anything, it’ll at least significantly up the spouse factor when it comes to buying one.
It may not look too different to the Civic that it’s based on, but Honda says that most of its body panels here are actually unique to the Type R, courtesy of its wider and longer footprint, and aerodynamic requirements befitting of a hot hatch. And if the bodywork doesn’t scream performance, then the massive rear wing definitely does.
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While its exterior design is a departure from its usual style, the all-new 2024 model’s interior is undisputedly a true Type R – a homage to the original Civic Type R with its red interior carpet and Alcantara-wrapped bucket seats. And in case your passenger is still oblivious for some inexplicable reason, the brushed metal gear knob and the serial number plate on the dashboard ensures there’s no mistaking this for a normal Honda Civic.
As for the drivers, the fully digital instrument cluster transforms into a race car display once you engage the +R driving mode, complete with a horizontal-style rev counter graphic and a massive gear readout in the centre. The Type R also gains additional shift lights above the screen, because race car.
The all-new 2024 Honda Civic Type R is still powered by the same 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four mill as its predecessor did, but in this instance has been uprated to now make 319 hp and 420 Nm – enough to secure a FWD lap record at not just the Suzuka Circuit in its home country, but also at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
As usual, power is tranferred to the front wheels only via a six-speed manual transmission and a helical LSD. Its outright performance is also complemented by a set of adjustable dampers, alongside Brembo-powered disc brakes with four pistons up front and the oh-so-sexy red calipers. But how does it drive? Well, you’ll have to check out our review for that.
WATCH: FL5 Honda Civic Type R review – Big step up from FK8?
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