The launch of the all-new 329ps Honda Civic Type R comes as Honda celebrates 25 years of its iconic high-performance hatchback – and 50 years of Civic.
The next-generation model has been engineered to deliver the fastest Civic Type R to date, building on a long tradition of performance cars inspired by the spirit of racing.
Prices for Civic Type R start from £46,995, or £499 per month / 8.9% APR based on a 37-month Personal Contract Purchase agreement, with a total amount payable of £55,256.
Order books opened on 30 November and first deliveries are likely in January.
Building on the human-centred approach to dynamics, design and usability applied when developing the 11th generation Civic, Honda engineers have refined every aspect to create the Civic Type R. Integrated design enhancements including a functional hood vent and a new rear diffuser that bring new aerodynamic benefits, whilst complementing the sporty silhouette. The Type R is also lower and wider than the standard Civic, with a new rear spoiler design accentuating the sleek roofline and contributing to the car’s aerodynamic performance and muscular appearance.
Lightweight components and an increase in power from the 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine combine to create one of the highest power-to-weight ratio in its class. A revised rev-match system with auto blip ensures that gear changes with the six-speed manual transmission offer drivers a rewarding experience. Top speed is limited to 155,mph and and the 0-62mph sprint is passed in about 5.4 seconds.
Inside, the Type R features the evocative red interior, lightweight sport seats and driver-focused controls that distinguish all performance Hondas. In addition to pre-set driver modes, a new Individual mode enables new levels of customisation for drivers, enabling them to personalise vehicle characteristics such as throttle response and steering feedback. The onboard Honda Log R datalogger has improved monitoring and an innovative scoring function to help drivers improve their performance on the track.
As with all Honda Type R models, the Civic Type R wears the brand’s iconic crimson red ‘H’ badge that is inspired by the spirit of Honda racing. This stretches back to 1965 with the success of the RA272 Formula 1™ car at the Mexican Grand Prix, which sported white livery with a red rising sun on the nose. Honda continues to push the boundaries of performance in motorsport, with the latest generation Type R recently setting a new lap record for a front-wheel drive car at the world-famous Suzuka Circuit in Japan.
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The potent 4.0-litre V8 biturbo TFSI engine now has an output of 630PS and a maximum torque of 850Nm. On sale December 8, the RS 6 Avant performance and the RS 7 Sportback performance are priced from £112,650 and £116,305 respectively.