The new Civic Type R follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, delivering an exhilarating driving experience, building on a long tradition of performance cars inspired by the spirit of racing. Having already set new standards for performance, having broken the record for a front-wheel drive lap at Suzuka Circuit in Japan. Throughout its development, Honda engineers have worked to improve and fine-tune every aspect of the new model. With enhancements to its design and aerodynamics, as well as the use of lightweight components helping to achieve the most responsive and powerful Type R to date!
“With the all-new Civic Type R, Honda engineers have again delivered on our goal to create the most rewarding driving experience in the performance hatchback segment,” said Tom Gardner, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe. “Through exceptional advancements and the application of motorsport-derived technologies, we have exceeded the capabilities of even the stripped-out, lightweight version of the previous model. It is this dedication to performance excellence that has made the Civic Type R so popular with driving purists for 25 years.”
Developed under the model concept of creating the “Ultimate Sports 2.0,” the new Type R takes the sleek and sporty silhouette of the new Honda Civic e:HEV and applies a sportier look and elevated performance. The Type R is noticeably wider and lower instance, with the squat form being enhanced through wheel arches which flare out the lightweight 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, shod with bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.
During the development, Honda engineers worked towards creating the “Ultimate Sports Design”, with the ultimate expression relating to a high-performance, front-engined, front-wheel drive car. The design helps to convey a sense of unity with details on the front and rear bumper working cohesively with the rear doors and wheel arches, whilst also helping to improve its aerodynamics.
The larger grille at the front of the Type R helps to increase airflow to the engine, which works in unison with the new subtle bonnet which features a vent to maximise airflow around the front end. Other design elements that help maximise the Type R’s aerodynamics include the larger vents behind the front wheels, and a new larger rear diffuser, which is integrated directly into the under-floor, which in itself is 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.
Paint finish choices include the historic Championship White revered by Honda Type R enthusiasts, in addition to a solid Rallye Red, as well as Racing Blue, Crystal Black and Sonic Grey Pearls.
The interior of the new model is dedicated to enhancing the exhilaration of driving and sharpening concentration levels. It maintains the high level of comfort, practicality and refinement found within the all-new Civic e:HEV, elevated by emotive, performance-focused details and features, such as the iconic classic Type R red trim.
The immersive cockpit is designed to support intense driving experiences: the driver sits lower than before, with greater visibility over the lower bonnet, blind spots minimised, and reflective elements reduced. The lightweight front sports seats with suede-effect upholstery offer exceptional support for the driver’s postural structure to provide comfort and manoeuvrability on the track and during long drives.
Drivers 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 powerful Honda LogR data logger returns in a heavily updated format for this generation of 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. Key features include a stopwatch to record lap times, tyre friction circles that display the maximum tyre force the vehicle can achieve, 3D vehicle motion display, and an innovative scoring function that helps drivers improve their skills on the track and much more to engage with drivers and encourage safe, accurate and incrementally faster laps on track.
The Civic Type R is renowned for its powerful, highly responsive and high-revving engines. The new model builds on the award-winning basis of its predecessor by evolving the 17YM Type-R’s famed engine even further to deliver the fastest, most addictive yet secure and rewarding drive in the model’s history.
Changes are incremental with the revised turbocharger now featuring a compact housing to improve the overall unit efficiency. The turbine itself has had both its blade count and shape optimised to boost power and improve airflow through the turbo. This has resulted in the strongest VTEC turbocharged engine in the Type R’s engine.
A revised, high-efficiency exhaust system works in conjunction with the above to improve the power-to-weight ratio, torque and top speed of the previous generation Type R and make the 2023 Civic Type R one of the most powerful per litre cars in its class.
Helping drivers feel connected to their car is an optimised version of the six-speed manual transmission that helped the previous generation enamour fans around the world. A revised rev-match system with auto blip ensures perfectly paired rev-matching when shifting down through the gears, helping balance the car on corner entry. The high-strength gearbox has gained a high-rigidity lever and optimised shift gate pattern for a reassured and hyper-precise gear change.
The upgraded Brembo braking system retains the two-piece discs from the previous generation for improved feel and longevity. The new car features enhanced temperature control and air-cooling through an upgraded radiator, ensuring sustained, optimal performance during heavy use. A new triple-exhaust design with enhanced sound modulation enhances the aural sensation, further strengthening the driver’s connection with the car.
