Yep, this is the all-new Honda Civic Type R, expected to hit European showrooms next year. According to the Japanese carmaker, this will be the "most extreme" Type R ever, "signaling the start of a new performance era for the brand."
"Honda has had four Type R model derivatives--the Civic, the Integra, the Accord and the NSX," points out Suehiro Hasshi, the Civic Type R project leader. "The engine in this new Civic Type R is unrivaled against all of them in terms of raw power, torque and engine response."
Hasshi is referring to the 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine from Honda's Earth Dreams Technology series. It is said to produce 276hp while already complying with Euro 6 emissions standards. Honda says that while the powerplant's predecessors were naturally aspirated, the new engine is now equipped with a turbocharger to boost low-end power delivery.
The new Civic Type R also marks the debut of Honda's +R button. A press of this button results in heightened engine response and a more aggressive and performance-focused torque-mapping. Steering also becomes more responsive for what is claimed to be the "ultimate handling experience."
"In default standard mode, the Civic Type R is exceptionally agile, an everyday sports car with an enjoyable and fluid acceleration," explains 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."
This Civic Type R features a new four-point Adaptive Damper System, which "automatically adjusts the front and rear suspension damping force stiffness in a split second, based on driving conditions."
The car's engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, just like past Civic Type Rs.
"The manual transmission allows the drivers to select the gear they want--for example, down from fifth to third when approaching a corner," says Hasshi. "The concept of the new Civic Type R is to be the complete driver's car, so this was the best option."
The all-new Civic Type R will be built at Honda's manufacturing plant in Swindon, UK.
