Civic Type R – Automobiles Review

Honda celebrates 25 years of the Civic Type R

Honda’s iconic Civic is celebrating two anniversaries this year: 50 years of continuous production and 25 years of the high-performance, race-derived Type R variant, which rewrote the rulebook on what a hot hatch should be. Despite being born as the more attainable Type R, the Civic variants embody the Type R philosophy the maximum thanks to exquisite engineering and engaging dynamics. Over six generations, the formula has evolved to deliver the ultimate front engine, front wheel drive performance hatchback to customers. One that can comfortably handle the daily commute from Monday to Friday, before tackling the circuit at weekends.

EK9 (1997-2000): An affordable, accessible Type R for all

The Type R nameplate can be traced back to the 1992 Honda NSX Type R, which raised the bar on performance and dynamic ability, but was only available in extremely limited numbers. Applying the Type R philosophy to the Civic followed a similar engineering ethic to the Integra and NSX to offer an engaging, rewarding drive. The EK9 was offered to the Japanese market only and had a high-end specification; including a hand-ported 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC engine that produced a highly impressive 116bhp-per—litre, a lightweight seam-welded shell that contributed to a total vehicle weight of just 1050kg, paired with a helical Limited Slip Differential (LSD), and unique suspension components to completely transform the driving experience. Launched to outstanding reviews, the EK9 set in motion the pursuit of the ultimate front-engine, front wheel drive performance hatchback.

EP3 (2001 – 2005) A European take on the Type R

As a result of the overwhelming success of the first-generation car, the second-generation was offered across Europe; thanks, in part, to now being manufactured in the United Kingdom. The new car introduced an all-new, and now iconic 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC ‘K’ series engine that redefined what a normally aspirated two-litre engine could do. It too featured uprated brakes, a precise, close-ratio six-speed transmission and a shell that made extensive use of high-tensile steel to increase torsional static rigidity by 80% over the EK9. Toe-control link strut suspension in the front and reactive-link double-wishbone suspension at the rear combined with new electric power steering (EPS) and variable gear ratio (VGR) for highly rewarding steering feel and feedback.

FN2/ FD2 (2007-2011) Type R – two ways

The third generation Civic Type R was unique in that the European and Japanese models differed dramatically. Europe received the FN2-based hatchback, which retained the proven 2.0-liter engine, but introduced a new chassis that moved the fuel tank beneath the front seats to improve interior space and flexibility. Japanese customers were instead offered the FD2 saloon, which offered an even more focused driving experience thanks to additional items such as a more powerful K20A engine, a helical LSD and powerful Brembo brakes. The saloon’s increased weight was countered by extensive use of structural adhesives instead of welding, and aluminium in both the chassis and panels.

FK2 (2015-2017) Introducing the VTEC TurboA

As market and regulatory expectations shifted, the move toward turbocharging was inevitable. Honda engineers worked meticulously to develop the K20C1 turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that offered explosive performance thanks to a 310PS output. In order to better control that significant increase in power, Honda introduced its Dual Axis Strut Suspension paired with a limited-slip differential to counter the torque-steer encountered in high output front wheel drive cars. The 2015 Civic Type-R sprinted from 0-100km/h in just 5.7 seconds and came equipped with large diameter (351mm) front discs that formed part of the high-performance Brembo braking system. The FK2 proved a formidable base for a competition car, winning several TCR Touring Car titles across the globe.

FK8 (2017-2022) The Ultimate Sports hatchback

Arriving in 2017, the FK8 was the ultimate evolution of the Civic Type R. A significant evolution of the FK2, the new car gained a host of new mechanical features such as adaptive dampers, and further revisions to the K20C1 engine to boost power to 320PS. The model also introduced downforce to the equation for an even more intense drive; the external aerodynamic package worked in unison with an advanced, almost flat underfloor, to actively contribute to negative lift. The model also made its debut in the United States, with the region leading global sales for the car.

FL5 (2022-) Ultimate Sports 2.0

Launching later this year, the all-new generation car further evolves, matures, and refines technologies that have been developed over several generations. Whilst new technologies and refined aerodynamics have helped set the bar higher once again, a clear lineage can be traced back to the FD2 generation with the incremental revisions resulting in the fastest, most rewarding and addictive Civic Type R ever built. Already the track record holder at Suzuka, the 2022 Civic Type R is a fitting way to celebrate 30 years of the Type R nameplate.

August 23, 2022

Honda reveals details for new Type R Limited Edition lineup!

2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition One of the most prominent street-legal track-focused vehicles, Honda’s legendary Civic Type R, will arrive in American dealers later this year. The new family member is lighter, faster and more powerful. 2021 Type R Limited Edition will feature all of 2020 model year Type R updates, all along with additional enhancement designed to make it the ultimate street-legal Type R machine to date. Also, there will be only 600 units in the lineup, all in Phoenix Yellow and with an individually numbered serial plate.

Some of the modifications include:

Lightweight, forged aluminum wheels from acclaimed manufacturer BBS (18 lb. total unsprung weight reduction)
Further weight reduction of approximately 28 pounds accomplished via reduced sound-deadening materials and removal of features such as the rear wiper, tonneau cover, and rear heater ducts
Specially tuned dampers
Recalibrated steering for maximum control and feedback

Furthermore, the new 2021 Civic Type R Limited Edition pays homage to past models with its exclusive finish, contrasting gloss black paint on the roof, outside mirror caps, and intake vent on the hood, along with a dark chrome Civic badge on the rear hatch.

Like the standard vehicles in the lineup, Limited Edition comes with Honda Sensing, brand’s suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies as standard equipment, including Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation and Lane Keeping assist with Adaptive Cruise Control. Sweet!

Under the hood, 2021 Civic Type R draws power from an agile 2.0-liter direct-injection and turbocharged 4-cylinder power unit with VTEC valvetrain, delivering a total of 306hp and 295lb-ft of torque, with power distributed to the front wheels delivered through a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox.

As it comes to the standard vehicles, Type R features a set of selectable driving modes – Comfort, Sport, and +R – all three alter damping force, steering assist and throttle mapping. New for 2021 is the Active Sound Control that modifies the interior sound. Neat!

2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition

Source: Honda

February 24, 2020

2017 Civic Type R to be revealed! Here’s what we know so far!

2017 Honda Civic Type R It is here! And it is beautiful! And it is 100% Honda! The latest Civic Type R was revealed at this year’s Mondial de L’Automobile in Paris and showcased what Honda team has prepared for the upcoming 2017 model year. So, let’s waste no more time and see what this sweetie has to offer!

What we know so far

2017 Honda Civic Type R

Completely resembling the body proportions of the Civic body language, the new Type R builds solidly on that platform: there are some more muscles added, aerodynamic features and overall it expresses vast amount of aggressiveness and confidence.

The front catches the eye with massive bumper, enhancing carbon-fiber components and sweet sporty red line as a visual update. There is a new intaker on the bonnet, smoked lenses for the revised LED headlights and new air scoop placed centrally in a trapezoidal recess.

2017 Honda Civic Type R

The sides continue this aggressive idea and incorporate straightforward lines, slight, yet powerfully-looking curves and overall clean design that contributes to the sporty appearance. Of course, the new 20-inch wheels in piano black are not only functional, but also completely resemble the nature of the vehicle. We like ‘em. And let’s not forget that sweet red line that was also present at the front: it is simple, clean and yet boosts that sporty appearance to its maximum.

The rear-end. Now we are talking. Just look at it! Go ahead and look how powerful and massive it looks. Completely opposite to the side styling, the rear shows numerous details, curves and angles. Definitely vital for this expressive appearance is the spoiler and the mid-mounted exhaust pipes, one of which is finished in bright metallic red. And let’s not forget about the passionate red line.

2017 Honda Civic Type R

The vehicle will be created within the same development programme as the rest of the Civic models and its massive production prototype will be revealed next year.

So far, so good. Additional details will be available pretty soon, so stick with us!

Source: Honda

September 29, 2016

2015 Honda Civic Type R proves itself worthy at Europe’s most famous race tracks

2015 Honda Civic Type R Honda’s so-called “race car for the road”, the Civic Type R, has made some notable achievements at five legendary tracks in Europe.

In fact, Honda team itself is inspired by the Civic Type R and its European dominance and the impeccable results at the Nürburgring Nordschleife back in May, 2014 and created a new challenge for the Type R.

The high-speed campaign started on a rainy day in April at Silverstone, where the Three-time British Touring Car Championship winner Matt Neal took the wheel and set time of 2 minutes and 44.45 seconds. In fact, not content with this time, Matt and his fellow team members decided to have another shot at the track and a month later they scored a lap time of 2 minutes and 31.85 seconds. Sweet.

Then, in early May, Honda team decided to have a try at the Spa-Franhorchamps circuit in Belgium. The well-known track, loved by many, was taken by Honda Racing member Rob Huff. He managed to set a time of 2 minutes and 56.91 seconds.

2015 Honda Civic Type R

After that, the team made to successful attempts at Italy’s Monza circuit. A Honda team member from WTTC squat, Norbert Michelisz tamed the beast and hit a time of 2 minutes and 15.16 seconds.

And before the last step at the Hugaroring, the Honda squad went to the historic Estoril with Tiago Monteiro for a ride. Sadly, there was a dramatic crash at the WTCC Race of Germany that put the Honda ace out of action, but just a day later, Bruno Correia, a well-known Portuguese racer scored a time of 2 minutes and 4.08 seconds.

And lastly, the team arrived in Hungary for one last ride on 6th of June. The chosen driver was once again Norbert Michelisz. He pushed the vehicle to the limit and set a benchmark of 2 minutes and 10.85 seconds. Cool.

2015 Honda Civic Type R

So, how do you find these achievements? Write down in the comment section below!

Source: Honda

June 14, 2016

Honda and Ariel Team Up One More Time!

Honda and Ariel Motor Company decided to renew their 16-year strong exclusive supply agreement which sees the Atom powered by Civic Type R and the new off-road Nomad by the Civic 2.4 power unit.

This news comes as the two automobile leader brands celebrate their 1500th Honda-powered Ariel, produced at the small factory in Somerset. As you might know, at this place work incredibly skilled and experienced craftsmen and technicians that spend between 100 and 200 hours for crafting a single vehicle, starting from the single parts and finishing with a brand-new and fully-operating machine.

Going into Ariel’s cozy British workshop is one of the best things that can happen to a automobile fan. And as any automobile fan can tell you, there are no two one and the same Ariels: each unit is made to special order and there are countless available configurations. And something more: Ariel offers affordable vehicles with reliable parts and construction.

For more than 12 years Ariel brand has been using the Civic Type R engines by default: the first vehicle to benefit the Civic engine was the flagship Atom and now, for the new season year, the Civic 2.4 unit will be the heart of the fresh and agile off-road Nomad.

Definitely an alliance that stood the test of time, this one will continue to impress us with wonderful blends and results of brand collaborations.

Source: Honda

March 15, 2016

Immerse Yourself in the 360 Experience of Honda Moto GP vs Type R vs Touring [VIDEO]

Honda Civic Type R Racing These two videos are dedicated to all Honda fans around the world. It isn’t a secret that I am a crazy fan of Honda Type R, and when I saw (and “participated”) in this video I was so excited that wanted to immediately share it with you. If you have ever wanted to experience the feeling of riding alongside Honda World Touring Car stars Tiago Monteiro and Gabriele Tarquini, then I have good news: you can now do it.

How is this possible? Via a breakthrough filming technique, which captures the action in 360 degrees. Therefore you can ride alongside Gabriele in his Civic Type R, and Tiago in his Castrol Honda Civic Touring Car, as they power around the Italy’s Circuito Tazio Nuvolari. The only disadvantage is that this happens only virtually.

In this ‘video’, Tarquini was accompanied by Gordon Shedden, Matt Neal, and Jack Clarke. They make a quartet of gleaming Type Rs attempt to hold off a rampaging Monteiro and 2015 LCR Honda MotoGP star Jack Miller on his Honda RC213V.

Wonder who will claim bragging rights in this strange two- and four-wheel racing competition? You have to find out by watching the video below. I promise you that you will witness a hot-lap like no other, shot as part of an event that displayed the technical relationship between Honda and Castrol, as well as the race-bred Honda Civic Type R .

Now, immerse yourself in the 360 experience and drag around your screen, or turn your phone to follow the racing action!

httpv://youtu.be/PYM4qIneikQ

To find out more, check out our event recap watch this video:

httpv://youtu.be/FJSuaq4ioOQ

Source: Honda Racing 2015

December 5, 2015

CivicX Imagines 2017 Honda Civic Type R Hatchback Prototype

2017 Honda Civic Type R Hatchback Prototype was revealed in the famous Civic CivicX.com forum. The pictures have been created by the digital artist Damian, who has been inspired after seeing the recently released spy shots of the car. What Damian has done is to peel off the camouflage wrapping of the next Type R. The result is spectacular and we couldn’t help but publish it straight away.As CivicX says, the spy photos were ‘deciphered’ and they depict Type R’s lines and styling elements as they are going to be in production form. In fact, the result is said to be extremely close to what the production car is going to look like.

Very intriguing seems to be the new front fenders, which let us think that they could be used to draw hot air from the engine. Or should they provide extra cooling for the rubbers? Spy shots of the car also suggest that it has 3-outlet exhaust. So, are we going to expect more loudly sound coming from it? Well, we should have to wait until the production release and then to press the +R button to get the real impression.And how about the output? Of course, everything has been kept in secret but we definitely expect to see more horsepower in comparison to Type R’s current one. Speaking of which, it comes out from a 4-cyllinder 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, producing 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm and torque of 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).2017 Honda Civic Type R hatchback is going to be based on the tenth generation Honda’s global platform. Its production is going to start at company’s UK plant in 2017.

October 29, 2015

Honda Racing Team Showed Their Full Potential at BTCC

Honda Civic Type R BTCC The latest Honda Civic Type R received its honors and plaudits, as Honda Yuasa Racing team nailed the drivers and manufacturers championship at the 2015 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship in the final at Brands Hatch.

And going even forward with the gained momentum, the latest Civic Type R was especially created with the kind help of World Touring Car Team. This means that all the analysis and feedback from the event was processed and helped to improve the style and performance for the first competitive year.

As you might remember, the mass-produced version of the latest Civic Type R was first unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show back in March and some weeks later was introduced to the Dunlop MSA British Touring Cars Event. This was the moment when Honda Yuasa Racing team asked for help the UK Manufacturing (HUM) for the preparations and the fine tunes for the big race itself.

Honda Civic Type R BTCC

This elegant, yet aggressive hatch is ready for a race in every single time and will provide the driver with everything required to win it: 310 hp (227 kW) , acceleration that helps the vehicle to go from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) for no less than 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 306 km/h (170 mph).

Honda Civic Type R BTCC

Source: Honda

October 13, 2015

Honda Will Unveil Its Latest Vehicles at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show

Honda Honda team has announced an extended list of concept and production vehicles, along with motorcycles that will be demonstrated at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show, held from 28 October to 8 November 2015.

Furthermore, the brand focuses on giving solutions and improving the everyday life of Honda users. And using the slogan “The Power of Dreams”, the crew proudly demonstrates its latest and greatest releases. So, let’s check out what will people at the show witness.

Honda FCV

This is Honda’s first production model with a fuel-cell powered system. This powertrain layout enables a full cabin features, but maybe the most important is that the FCV offers a cruising range of more than 700 km. The specifications can also act as a mobile powerplant thanks to the external power feeding inventer. This all means that it will produce electric energy to the communities in case of an emergency.

New models for Japan

With the intertia, gained from the strong summer season, the Civic Type R will finally make its Japanese debut at the show. Honda will also display the latest S660 open-top sports mini-vehicle. It is exclusively sold in Japan and it is especially crafted to deliver the same pleasure and excitement as the fully-fledged sport vehicles. But with a compact and efficient package. How cool is that?

Modern concepts

Honda

Furthermore, Honda will demonstrate some concept vehicles that include the Honda Project 2&4, geared with RC213V. As you might remember, this vehicle debuted at 2015 FIAA earlier in September. Especially created to deliver outstanding driving experience, the Honda Project 2&4 is created to deliver the flexibility of a motorcycle and the utility of a car.

The other concept vehicles that will be displayed at the show are Honda’s WANDER STAND and WANDER WALKER. Both of the machines are designed to deliver optimum mobility and flexibility among pedestrians.

September 30, 2015

Honda fans Celebrate Civic Type R at Nürburgring [VIDEO]

Honda Civic Type R Side and Rear View One of my most favorite debuts at this year’s Geneva Motor Show was the last generation Honda Civic Type R. In order to celebrate its release, the Japanese company decided to invite fans to the Nürburgring circuit. This is where the Type R has set a lap record for a front-wheel drive hot hatch. This is also where the red badged Civic drivers are offered the chance to attend the historic ADAC Zurich 24-hour sports car race in their Type Rs.

The even will happen between 15 and 17 May and will feature (for the first time ever) the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) race. It will be held on both Nordschleife and Grand Prix circuits that measure 25 kilometers, combined. The most important individuals in the team will be Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro, who will aim at no less than victory.

What is more, the one-off event will offer Type R fans the opportunity to purchase a three-day package, including VIP entrance with paddock access, camping accommodation in a special souvenir tent, food and beverages, and most importantly the chance to meet the drivers in person and visit the pit lane by taking their Civic on a lap around the circuit. This of course will happen before the start of the 24 hour race.

httpv://youtu.be/a9G7N0_M9Rc

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 23, 2015

Honda Civic Type R is Finally Here [VIDEO]

After five long years the new Honda Civic Type R is here! The hatch was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show two days ago, thus giving all fans (me as well) the pleasure of viewing one of the most anticipated cars. And the question is simple: Is the wait worth it? I’m going to talk about this in a minute after previewing what’s new in the Type R.

First and foremost, the red ‘H’ badged car will be driven by the 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, which finds its world-first application here. In fact, in Type R’s 22 years of history this is the most extreme and high-performing engine used.

Regarding the details, the maximum power that this unit can produce is 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm, and the optimum torque is 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. And if you are a Honda fan than you’ll definitely know that these numbers are higher than any previous ones. Although I did expect more from the performance of this car, it is still satisfactory for a front-wheel driven hatch.

The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).

In terms of styling we see the typical Civic Type R form, but there are some details that need to be mentioned and I find very intriguing. First, the car was subject to substantial aerodynamic analysis and testing. As a result the development of the car continued via computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing, and later with extensive prototype testing on the road and on track.

Rear diffuser and rear wing have been both redesigned as well as the wide front splitter and deep side skirts. Heat is managed via the enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper, while the airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels.

Speaking of wheels, the car rides on lightweight 19-inch alloys fitted with 235/35R19 tyres that were specially made for the Type R. Brembo brake package is what takes car for the stopping power of the car. At the front there are four-piston calipers with 350 mm drilled discs.

Besides the Championship White exterior color, this Civic will be also offered in the pearlescent Crystal Black, metallic Polished Metal and Brilliant Sporty Blue as well as in Milano Red.

In terms of interior, we have nothing much different than the previous generation model. And this is where I am little disappointed, because I have obviously expected more. Take for instance the gear lever knob which is made from machined aluminium alloy. The black sports seats and the red double stitching are also present.

Nevertheless two innovative things about this Honda immediately grab the attention. The first one is the ‘+R’button and the second is the GT Pack. The ‘+R’ button increases the response of the chassis and drivetrain systems. As a result the driver will get better driving experience. But before we test the car we can’t say if this is true.

Also exclusive to the Type R is the GT Pack which gives those needed individual enhancements. Here are included front red highlights and rear splitters, rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors, and many more.

httpv://youtu.be/J76kVLYJXWA

httpv://youtu.be/QSt02xpRe9Y

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 5, 2015

New Honda Civic Type R Images Reveal Genuine Aggression

Carmakers love playing games with customers who are expecting the new automotive hit. From the release of teaser images and videos to sharing a sentence or two about a certain upcoming vehicle, the teasing just never stops. Now the situation is quite similar with the new Civic Type R. What Honda is doing could be described as an attempt to revive the interest of those who are eagerly waiting to find out more about the car. The company gives just a little but the evoked flow and amount of attention can’t be measured really.

Trying to stay as coy as possible, Honda transforms the presentation of the 2015 Honda Civic Type R into a progressive process and every time we hear something, it adds to the information which we have already received. One thing is for sure, the jigsaw will soon be finished.

While still staying very secretive about the output of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, Honda confirmed that the new model will come with a top speed of 270km/h (167 mph).

Judging from the pictures, it looks like Honda has tried to build something that will scratch the senses of every driver. The aggressive front bumper is shaped in a way that allows it “to inhibit air turbulence around the front wheels, cutting drag and enhancing high-speed stability.” Additionally, the newly-designed model will be fitted with a front splitter, ventilated front fenders and aerodynamic side skirts. There is going to be a prominent rear wing and underbody panels that transmit air to a sporty – looking rear diffuser.

In order to help the driver deal with the Type R’s monstrous power, the car has a specially – developed high performance Brembo brake package with four-piston calipers and 350 mm drilled discs. Finally, the appearance of the Honda Civic is completed by eye-catching 19-inch alloys which fill the wheel arches and accommodate the larger brakes.

Source: Honda

February 11, 2015

Tag: Civic Type R

What we know so far

Honda FCV

New models for Japan

Modern concepts