And, of course, by performance models, we mean Si and Type R. While Si is tantalizing, sure, it’s the Type R that has our teeth chattering with excitement.
What might that new, American-bound Type R – the sportiest Civic ever — look and act like? Let’s discuss.
If you’re thinking it’ll just be the same Type R we saw last month in Geneva, think again. Honda is coming with an all-new, global platform, so it should handle much better than anything the engineers can squeeze from the current platform. Not to mention a heck of a lot handsome and sleek.
Looking at the Concept, we’re given what could be a very good glimpse at a production, next-gen Type R. After all, that front fascia is too aggressive for grandma to consider as a gold-painted grocery-getter.
Though we love the coupe, we know that Honda will be bringing the Type R in five-door form, which will be built exclusively in Britain. Along with a big wing and some bright paint, this should put it squarely up against the likes of the Subaru WRX STI and the Ford Focus RS.
The recently unveiled Type R features a 305-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which has its power routed to the front wheels through a six-speed manual. There are chances the next-gen, global Type R could receive this same engine. I, however, doubt it. I am betting Honda will unveil a new turbo VTEC 2.0 to one-up Ford and Subaru. “You need 2.5 and 2.3 liters? Flimshaw! We only need 2.0!”
Hoping for all-wheel drive? Don’t. It’s not going to happen. Frankly, the Type R doesn’t need it. The current one just broke the Nurburgring lap record for a FWD car. And if Honda engineers can keep that lineage going with some improved chassis and torque vectoring technology, they’ll gladly save the time, money, and weight and stick to a front-drive setup.
I – like virtually every other American not currently in a coma – am very excited about not only the 10th-gen Civic but also the next Type R. So believe that the rest of the Digital Trend Cars and I team will be all over it. So check back for more news soon.