The Geneva Motor Show is nearly upon us, and with it, a host of new performance cars. One of the most eagerly anticipated of these is the Honda Civic Type R. It’s been teased with videos, not one, but 2 concept show cars, and it’s been years in the making. Now it’s finally within reach, or view.
Ahead of its reveal on the 3rd of March, Honda have revealed some more details along with 3 teaser images of the new Type R. The big news is, the Honda Civic Type R will be the fastest standard production hot hatch around, with a top speed of 270km/h.
In addition to the high output 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that will generate in excess of 221kW, enhanced downforce and minimal drag are the reasons cited for the top speed. Honda has worked on aerodynamic bodywork that not only functions to increase stability and downforce, but also looks visually intriguing.
An almost entirely flat underside aids airflow, whilst a rear diffuser acts to essentially suck the Type R to the road surface. A wide front splitter and deep side skirts manage airflow to reduce lift, whilst the front bumper design inhibits turbulence around the front wheels. Additional tweaks to the design and bodywork also improve cooling and ventilation.
To assist in control and handling, the Type R’s braking is handled by a Brembo brake package, developed specifically for the car, which features 350MM drilled brake discs with four-piston calipers on the front wheels, housed within 19-inch alloy wheels.
The Civic Type R will be unveiled on March 3rd, wearing a Championship White paint job – a colour shared with multiple previous generations of the Type R.
Will Honda succeed in their task of achieving the FWD Nurburgring record, or will the 2 years of teasing result in the biggest performance let down of 2015? Only time will tell, but we’re certainly hoping for the former.