- Staff
- #1
- 55,511
- 23,809
The Japanese firm makes some bold claims about its new hot hatch saying that it "it will deliver unmatched performance compared to any previous Type R car" including the "iconic performance-oriented versions of the Integra, Accord and even the NSX".
Honda still won't confirm exactly how powerful the Type R's brand new 2.0-liter turbocharged VTEC engine is, stating that it will produce "more than 280PS (276hp)" with a redline at 7,000 rpm.
Suehiro Hasshi, Large Project Leader for the Civic Type R at Honda R&D, commented: “Honda has had four Type R model derivatives – the Civic, Integra, Accord and NSX. The engine in this new Honda Civic Type R is unrivalled against all of them in terms of raw power, torque and engine response.”
Instead of going the semi-automated dual-clutch route like most other carmakers, Honda has chosen to link the turbocharged inline-four to a traditional short shifting six-speed manual gearbox in order to "maximise driving enjoyment". Given Honda's previous excellent record with stick shifts, we can't say we blame them.
"The manual transmission allows the drivers to select the gear they want, for example, down from fifth to third when approaching a corner," explains Hasshi. "The concept of the new Civic Type R is to be the complete driver’s car so this was the best option."
Honda will debut a new "+R" button on the Civic Type R. Located on the side of the steering wheel, it's said to recalibrate the engine response, steering and the new four-point Adaptive Damper System.
"In default standard mode, the Civic Type R is exceptionally agile, an everyday sports car with an enjoyable and fluid acceleration," said Hasshi .
"The ‘+R’ button brings out a more dynamic and athletic car for the driver, to set pulses racing. The difference in character is immense. The ‘+R’ mode is extreme; the car is ideal for track use and will be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast," he explained.
Another new feature being introduced on the Type R is the 'steer axis', a mechanical system added to the front suspension that includes two supporting ‘kingpins’ to minimize torque steer under hard acceleration.
The concept is believed to be very close to the production model that will go on sale in Europe next year. According to Honda, the all-new Civic Type R "has been developed and engineered for European driving tastes" and will be built at the brand's manufacturing plant in Swindon, UK.
And before you ask, Honda hasn't said if it will be offered in any other markets outside Europe.
Honda still won't confirm exactly how powerful the Type R's brand new 2.0-liter turbocharged VTEC engine is, stating that it will produce "more than 280PS (276hp)" with a redline at 7,000 rpm.
Suehiro Hasshi, Large Project Leader for the Civic Type R at Honda R&D, commented: “Honda has had four Type R model derivatives – the Civic, Integra, Accord and NSX. The engine in this new Honda Civic Type R is unrivalled against all of them in terms of raw power, torque and engine response.”
Instead of going the semi-automated dual-clutch route like most other carmakers, Honda has chosen to link the turbocharged inline-four to a traditional short shifting six-speed manual gearbox in order to "maximise driving enjoyment". Given Honda's previous excellent record with stick shifts, we can't say we blame them.
"The manual transmission allows the drivers to select the gear they want, for example, down from fifth to third when approaching a corner," explains Hasshi. "The concept of the new Civic Type R is to be the complete driver’s car so this was the best option."
Honda will debut a new "+R" button on the Civic Type R. Located on the side of the steering wheel, it's said to recalibrate the engine response, steering and the new four-point Adaptive Damper System.
"In default standard mode, the Civic Type R is exceptionally agile, an everyday sports car with an enjoyable and fluid acceleration," said Hasshi .
"The ‘+R’ button brings out a more dynamic and athletic car for the driver, to set pulses racing. The difference in character is immense. The ‘+R’ mode is extreme; the car is ideal for track use and will be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast," he explained.
Another new feature being introduced on the Type R is the 'steer axis', a mechanical system added to the front suspension that includes two supporting ‘kingpins’ to minimize torque steer under hard acceleration.
The concept is believed to be very close to the production model that will go on sale in Europe next year. According to Honda, the all-new Civic Type R "has been developed and engineered for European driving tastes" and will be built at the brand's manufacturing plant in Swindon, UK.
And before you ask, Honda hasn't said if it will be offered in any other markets outside Europe.
