Honda has just launched the most potent Honda Civic Type R in the marque's 30-year history, offering performance enthusiasts a thrilling experience with 235 kW and 420 Nm at their disposal.
Hideki Kakinuma, the global Civic Type R development leader, states that the Type R represents the pinnacle of Honda's performance, allowing enthusiasts to embody the brand's racing spirit while enjoying the ultimate speed and driving pleasure. Moreover, he adds that the All-New Civic Type R continues this legacy by leveraging Honda's racetrack-proven engineering to deliver extreme performance and passion.
This new version, the sixth iteration, houses a more powerful variant of Honda's K20C1 engine. The redesigned turbocharger, increased air intake flow rate, and more efficient exhaust system contribute to improved output, torque, and response.
Under the hood, the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine generates 235 kW at 6,500 r/min and delivers 420 Nm of peak torque between 2,600 r/min and 4,000 r/min. Power comes through an improved six-speed manual transmission.
The wheelbase has been extended by 36 mm to 2,735 mm, while the front and rear tracks have been significantly widened (+26 mm in the front and +25 mm in the rear).
In terms of dimensions, the body is now 37 mm longer, 27 mm lower, and 13 mm wider compared to its predecessor. It features 19-inch matte black alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. The new wheels employ a unique 'reverse rim' design that enhances the stability of the tyre contact patch under load.
Stepping inside the cabin, you'll find red seats, carpet, and trim with a redesigned aluminium shift knob and a Type R plate on the dash.
Technological advancements include a new 9-inch colour touchscreen, which happens to be the largest ever in a Type R, featuring Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility. Additional standard features include Qi-compatible wireless charging and a custom-engineered Bose Centrepoint premium sound system.
When it comes to safety, the enhanced Honda SENSING suite of technologies encompasses the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), and Auto High-Beam (AHB). Additionally, a full complement of airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), anti-lock braking, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Auto Brake Hold (ABH), Agile Handle Assist (AHA), and Driver Attention Monitor are all included as standard.
The price for the new Honda Civic Type R is set at R979,000.
