Красная ковровая дорожка в Honda Civic Type R
Внутри передние сиденья автомобиля, характерные для Type R, бывают любого цвета, который вы хотите, если он ярко-красный. У нас была возможность посидеть в этих новых ведрах, и мы можем сказать, что они очень удобны. Модель для США также впервые будет иметь красную ковровую дорожку, которую ранее можно было увидеть только на других рынках. На данный момент мы не уверены, предложит ли Honda черный ковер или нет.
Остальная часть интерьера горячего хэтчбека — это то, что вы найдете в топовых комплектациях обычного хэтчбека Civic. Это означает 9,0-дюймовую информационно-развлекательную систему с сенсорным экраном с беспроводной связью Apple CarPlay и Android Auto, автоматический двухзонный климат-контроль и полностью цифровую приборную панель. В Type R последний демонстрирует уникальный дизайн модели привода +R. Он включает в себя индикаторы переключения передач, положение передачи и графику тахометра в стиле гоночных автомобилей.
Can Honda regain its Nurburgring lap record?
But it was the 5th generation model that put the Type R name on the map when it posted a lap time of 7 minutes 43 seconds around the Nurburgring circuit in 2017, making it the fastest ‘front-wheel-drive car on the planet.’ That record, however was snatched away in 2019 when the Megane RS Trophy-R bettered Honda’s time with a blistering 7 minutes 40 seconds.
To rub salt in the wound, Renault brought their Megane to Honda’s home race track of Suzuka Circuit in central Japan in late 2019, and proceeded to rewrite the Civic Type R’s lap record by three seconds with time of 2 minutes 25 seconds. So it’s a given that straight after Honda recaptures the Nurburgring lap record, it will return to Suzuka to retake its spiritual home record. That should be something to see.
So what about the all-new car? When we say “it’s the best-looking so far,” we don’t really have much to compare with, given that the predecessor employed such busy styling that it looked strangely like something from Transformers. Of course, if you back to the earlier models, the ones that did not make it to the U.S., then we can see the evolution of the series. Even if we compare the new model to the previous five generations, with original version first surfacing in 1997, then we would still say that the latest version is the best-looking.
One look at the all-new model and you can see that it is altogether more mature and less flashy. Gone is that edgy, boy-racer styled, Fast and Furious-inspired design, replaced by more subtle edges and a less angry face. One colleague even suggested that it looked a lot like an Accord, and I had to nod in agreement. One reason—there’s no more 3D protruding hood scoop, a definite sign that Honda is trying to dial down its boy-racer image.
5 A More Spiced-Up Exterior Look Compared To Competitors
Via The Detroit Bureau
The soon-to-be-released Honda Civic Type R is aesthetically similar to the regular Civic and the Civic Si. Its LED headlights and front grilles bring back memories of the Nissan R34 Skyline. However, Honda makes the lower grille of the new Civic Type R bigger and wider than the outgoing model.
The fastback design of the Civic Type R makes it more attractive than the MK8 VW Golf R. This behind-the-wheel video released by Honda shows that the 11th generation Civic features a set of ten-spoke wheels and Brembo brakes. There’s also a huge spoiler at the rear end, with three centralized exhaust pipes like the 458 Italia’s setup.
Restrained Styling
When mentioning the Civic Type R, the first thing that enters our minds are spoilers, scoops, fins, and ungainly aero bits – not anymore. The new Type R is a champion of restraint in its appearance except for its extreme-looking rear wing. Honda said the 2023 Type R has new body panels from the A-pillar forward, including a bespoke front bumper design and a custom rear bumper. In addition, it has wider rear doors that are exclusive to the 2023 Civic Type R.
Rounding up its “gentleman racer” vibe (a significant upgrade from the outgoing Type R’s boy racer charm) are three round exhaust tips and a new rear diffuser to improve downforce while reducing drag. Also standard are 19-inch matte black wheels wrapped in sticky and broader Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber. Honda said the alloys have a “reverse rim” design that improves the tire contact patch.
Honda will sell the Civic Type R in five custom body colors, including Rallye Red, Crystal Black Pearl, Sonic Grey Pearl, and the iconic Championship White revered by Honda fans.
The History of the Type R
Picture yourself in the 1990’s. Grunge is in, so are flannel shirts and flared jeans. Teenagers are talking Grand Turismo, a game for the high-tech device called a PlayStation. In the same era as Pearl Jam and Pikachu, the Japanese had begun taking the auto-industry by storm.
Fresh off their late 1980’s success in Formula 1, the 1990’s to early 2000’s was a golden era for Honda’s road cars.
It began with the NSX in 1990. Soon after, the Type R badge emerged for the NSX in 1992. Identified by their iconic Championship White paintwork, the Type R badge came to represent Honda’s focus on minimising weight and maximizing performance potential.
Soon after the NSX, the Type R badge began populating Honda’s range. It appeared on the new Integra in 1995, and later on the Civic in August 1997 with the launch of EK9 Honda Civic Type R. An Accord Type R appeared a year later in the UK. Then, Honda capped-off the decade with a gift to itself, with the superb Honda S2000.
This era was unquestionably one of Honda’s best, which cemented them into the history books with some of the best four-cylinder engines, ever. The 1990s was Honda’s Led Zeppelin IV moment.
However, this was over 20 years ago. Since then, Honda’s focus has shifted towards the mainstream market, with their range becoming a bit more pedestrian as a result. The Civic Type R is the only Type R to survive. If it weren’t for the Civic Type R, the badge may have been relegated to the history books.
Following the original EK9 and its spirited successor, the EP3, the Civic Type R survived through the 2000’s in a mildly weakened form as the FN2. In 2015, Honda got serious again, introducing the first turbocharged Type R, the FK2. However, this model never reached New Zealand. The true renaissance for the Type R came in 2017, with the introduction of the FK8. Wild styling, and even wilder performance. Honda smashed a Nürburgring record with it. I even said it was one of the best modern cars I’d driven when testing it. Today, Honda reckons they’ve done it again with the new Honda Civic Type R, the FL5. It’s the most powerful Type R to date. Honda’s so confident, they gave us an empty Pukehoke raceway to test it out. I suppose I’ll take one for the team, eh?
Main Competition
Toyota
Even within the niche performance hot hatch market, Honda has stiff competition. A scary reality called the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla exists. The Toyota provides 300 horsepower from a smaller, more efficient engine. Combined with all-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual for almost $10,000 less, it presents an undeniable package.
Those with European tendencies will consider the Volkswagen Golf R, though more expensive at $45,185. Considering markups, these models will have crossover shopping. If you spent more than $50,000 on your Type R, you should have bought a BMW M2.
Though not half the driver’s car, the Hyundai Veloster N is a quirky competitor that offers amazing value at its low relative price of $33,595 MSRP. Yet, if you bleed Honda red, it is unlikely any other vehicle will fill that void. Back and better than ever, the 2023 Type R promises to be the best Civic to ever hit the market.
Interior
Honda decided to spice things up on the inside, and the first thing you’ll notice is the all-red carpet and floor mats. Not burgundy or maroon – all of it is bright red. If that wasn’t enough, drive the Type R at night and you’ll see the dash and doors have ambient red LED stripes, not to mention red footwell lights too. If Honda wanted to cement the idea that “R” stands for red; mission accomplished.
Functionality is key, as there’s a lot to appreciate inside the FL5. The center cup holders are positioned very well, deep within the console to avoid spillage or your elbow bumping into them. Everything is incredibly easy to access and requires no training to understand – brownie points for physical volume and temperature knobs, not to mention climate controls not buried inside a touchscreen. The (smooth) leather steering wheel and Alcantara touch points are really comfortable, and the Type R-exclusive semi-buckets remain one of our favorite seats of any sporty compact car, hands down. All of this is secondary to the fantastic manual shifter and aluminum shift knob, which is molded so perfectly it feels almost liquid in your hand.
Beyond the sporty credentials however, the interior is pretty sparse. There’s a lot of things that forcibly remind you you’re in an econobox. The “L R” side mirror switch is the flimsiest inch of plastic we’ve ever felt. The lights inside the vanity mirrors look as if they belong on a plastic toy; they’re so dim and weak. The side door cup holders are made of plastic and have ridges on the inner edges, making them feel unfinished. The hazard button is rectangular, (un)fitted within a square cutout in the dash – why not recess the button, or at least match the shapes? It’s these things that remind you the car you bought, at the end of the day, is a Civic…
Tyler Clemmensen/Hypebeast
Интерьер Type-R “FL5”
Новый Type-R обладает таким же минималистичным дизайнов в салоне, как и стандартный Civic. По сути его салон лишь дополнили различными спортивными элементами, включая спортивные сиденья, рулевое колесо с замшевой обивкой, а также много красной строчки. Вдобавок на руле и приборной панели установили фирменный шильдик Type-R. Воздуховоды системы вентиляции расположили на передней панели вдоль одной длинной горизонтальной линии.
Сидя за рулем, водители могут изменять характеристики двигателя, рулевого управления, адаптивных амортизаторов и звука двигателя. Это осуществляется переключением режимов, таких как: «Комфорт», «Спорт», «+R» и «Индивидуальный». Существует также обновленная версия системы регистрации данных Honda LogR, которая теперь предоставляет такую информацию, как обороты вращения шин, и даже может оценивать водителей по их производительности на трассе.
Civic Type-R “FL5” будет доступен в цветах Championship White, Rallye Red, Racing Blue, Crystal Black и Sonic Grey Pearls.
New Features for 2023
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R aims to provide an even more thrilling driving experience with its upgraded power and sleek new design. The car features a larger chassis and smaller, wider wheels with improved cooling for the brakes. The upgraded engine and transmission boost the car’s output by 9 horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the car’s onboard datalogger no longer requires a smartphone app and can now be accessed directly from the infotainment touchscreen.
Civic Type R is simply a more complicated version of today’s car’s 2.0 liter turbocharged I4 engine.The CTR additionally includes a speed manual transmission with self (automatic) matching.
How Much Power Can You Expect?
Honda has not provided any details on the exact power output of the new 2.0-liter engine, however they have stated that it will be more powerful and responsive than the previous version, with an estimated 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.
Another noteworthy feature is the use of 265/30 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires on 19-inch wheels, which is a departure from the previous Type R’s 245/30 tires on 20-inch wheels. It’s unclear if this change is specific to certain regions.
What’s Different in the New Frame?
When asked about frame modifications, Honda said “new Type R will feature improved suspension and steering performance”. Additionally, the car will be equipped with brakes made by Brembo. The overall design of the CTR hatchback has been updated for a cleaner look and now features a large wing and a unique tri-tip exhaust system.
The intentionally confusing language around the Civic Type R’s launch strikes us as in a positive way. Honda can also preserve the old car’s engine and chassis beneath the body of the new car. Even if they call it one day, we could be completely happy. The Type R that is now on the market is one of the best driving performance cars that money can buy. So, that is why we are excited for the upcoming car, hoping not to lose any of that commitment.
When it comes to the inside of the vehicle, the 2023 Type R benefits greatly from the 11th generation Civic’s update. This update also includes the clear dash, center console plan, and several other new innovations. The digital device cluster and infotainment screen of the Hatchback’s 10.2 seem to retain the capabilities of the comparable wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital gadget is 10.2-inch in size, while the information screen is 9-inch. That’s the Type R, but don’t forget to look for the bolstered seats and the metal shift to avoid being sunburned on hot days.
More Power + Manual Stick = Sheepish Grin
Under the new Type R’s aluminum vented hood is a highly-tuned version of Honda’s 2.0-liter K20C1 four-cylinder gas engine. It has an updated turbocharger, a new straight-through exhaust system with an active exhaust valve, and an increased air intake flow rate to churn out 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque, the latter arriving from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm. The new Civic Type R has nine more horses and 15 more lb-ft. of torque while pumping out 157.8 horsepower per liter – the highest specific output of any Civic Type R.
The engine sends power to the front wheels using a six-speed manual gearbox. Honda makes one of the best manual sticks in the business, and we do not doubt that its lighter flywheel, helical-type limited-slip differential, and improved rev-matching feature make it more rewarding when crashing through the gears. Sweetening the pot is a high-rigidity shift lever and an optimized shift gate pattern for hyper-precise gear changes that’ll make you feel like a racing deity on the road.
315 Horsepower, Zero Torque Steer
How does a FWD car equipped with a 315-horsepower engine and manual gearbox manage to display zero torque steer? Honda’s engineers are magicians, plain and simple. Of course, that didn’t appear to be the case when I got behind the wheel of the redesigned 2023 HR-V, a pretty boring crossover by all accounts. They worked on the Type R’s suspension geometry, wheel camber, CV joint balance and more to keep acceleration perfectly straight at full throttle. It also helps to have 20mm wider, bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (P265/30ZR19)—a wonderful match for this car.
Photo: Antoine Joubert
Returning with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, the ultimate Civic is mighty responsive, even more so in Sport or +R mode which alters power delivery, steering feel, suspension tuning and engine sound. It’s extraordinarily sharp and precise, too, and the transmission is one of the best, period. Tapping into the full potential of the Type R is easy with that awesome clutch and stick combo.
When pushed to the limit on a track, the car impresses with high chassis rigidity, great work by the limited-slip differential and a suspension that expertly controls body roll while ensuring maximum grip. However, without an AWD system that can send torque to the rear axle, you don’t get the same feeling as when you floor the throttle in a Volkswagen Golf R or all-new Toyota GR Corolla. On the plus side, there’s less weight to move around.
The new Civic Type R is not only extremely fast and capable of withstanding a lot of abuse, but it’s also more accommodating and compliant than the previous generation. I wouldn’t call it comfortable, obviously, and noise levels easily exceed those of a regular Civic, but for a performance hatchback aimed at purists, the only real irritant here when it comes to daily driving is the low-profile tires. You need to pay serious attention to potholes, otherwise you’ll be searching for replacement rubber sooner rather than later. And that won’t easy.
Photo: Antoine Joubert
Двигатель, трансмиссия и производительность
Новый Civic Type R по-прежнему будет оснащаться 2.0-литровым четырехцилиндровым двигателем с турбонаддувом, но модернизированный турбокомпрессор с более эффективной выхлопной системой увеличил выходную мощность до 315 лошадиных сил при 6500 об/мин с крутящим моментом 310 фунт-футов при 2600 об/мин. 4000 об/мин. Civic Type R также выигрывает от дополнительных улучшений, таких как увеличенный радиатор и улучшенное охлаждение тормозов. Honda также увеличила число оборотов, при которых открывается активный выпускной клапан, чтобы усилить симфонию четырехцилиндрового двигателя автомобиля. Более легкий маховик в сочетании с переработанной системой согласования оборотов должен еще больше вознаградить греблю с шестиступенчатой механической коробкой передач нового CTR. Honda с передним приводом будет продолжать использовать свою инновационную переднюю подвеску с двухосными стойками, которая отлично справляется с подавлением крутящего момента. В то время как следующий Civic Type R не такой экстремальный визуально, он по-прежнему имеет выдающееся заднее антикрыло и другие аэродинамические дополнения, а также 19-дюймовые колеса, обутые в липкие шины Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. Мы с нетерпением ждем момента, когда сможем привязать наше тестовое оборудование к новому Civic Type R и посмотреть, на что оно способно. Когда у нас будет возможность, мы обновим эту историю результатами испытаний.
Подробнее о хэтчбеке Civic Type R
Price
And while it may be for everyone, not everyone will be able to afford it. Base MSRP stands at $43,295 USD, but consider yourself lucky if you ever see one for even close to that, thanks to private party flippers and ADM (Additional Dealer Markup). Even at $43k USD, the Civic Type R is a hard pill to swallow, but with the potential to reach $50k USD, it’s a choking hazard. Fifty grand could score you much more in terms of luxury and performance – the BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe, for example, starts at $47k USD and does 0-60 in 4.6 seconds, half a second faster than the Type R.
But this is a clear case of hype driving the market, as the Civic Type R – and its competitors in the Toyota GR family – are the hottest things on the street right now thanks to scarcity and pedigree. While subtle, we were able to grab the attention of some fans on the road, with a few people who even approached to confirm “is that the new one??” For these examples alone, diehards won’t think twice about putting the money down, because they know what the Type R badge means.
And with the FL5 “course-correcting” itself back into the “iykyk” lane of generations prior to the FK8, we can honestly say the current Civic iteration is what Type R is all about – fast, functional, fairly under the radar and, most importantly, fun. We’re happy to see the Civic Type R is back and better than ever before.
In the hot seat
Speaking of that engine, there is some good news about that too. The new Civic doesn’t just benefit from weight saving and beefier rigidity, it also employs the most powerful Type R powerplant ever courtesy of its uprated 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This unit gets revised turbo geometry, improved cooling and more exhaust back pressure to sharpen up its responsiveness. It’s married to that brilliant 6-speed manual gearbox and pumps out 315-hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, increases of 9 hp and 15 lb-ft over the old Type R.
Exercise your right boot generously and the tacho and digital rev bar climb quickly towards its 7000rpm redline, complete with blinking F1-style red gearshift lights. Power arrives in a constant, linear ascent, and almost feels naturally aspirated in the way it climbs. Keep the turbo spinning between 3000 and 7000 and you’ll have prodigious amounts of power ready for the taking. But because of revisions to the chassis and suspension, you’re able to get that power down onto the tarmac better than ever before, a development that realizes quicker lap times.
The Type R continues to use Honda’s automatic rev-matching tech, which is now 10% faster according to Honda. Of course, you can switch it off if you prefer to heel-and-toe for real, but it works superbly when left on. Also, the rev-matching helps to make day-to-day driving smoother and is a helpful feature for those new to manuals.
The Autopolis track was the ideal place to put this R through its paces. As I punched the brake pedal quickly and grabbed 3rd on entry to a 70mph right-hander, the R hunkered down with massive grip from the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and then launched out of the exit with an almost overconfident “is that all you got?”
This car feels seriously quick, light, chuckable and genre-beating. It just gets on with the business of driving as fast as the pilot wants, but making that driver feel like a production car series hero in the process.
It is very clearly in its element on a race track. But it does feel stiff. We took it for a one-hour on public roads too and while the car can cope with bumps and tram-lines and potholes, the Type R is definitely on the firm side.
When you drive at full throttle on a circuit like this, it occurs to you that the “Fastest front-wheel-drive car in the world” (as Honda says it will be!) was made possible thanks to the development team’s efforts in fine-tuning their Type R entry in Japan’s Super Endurance Series. The difference in acceleration and handling between the previous generation and the new model was eye-opening and grin-generating.
The front suspension has been modified to provide improved traction and turn-in at the limits, while the rears squat nicely thanks to their reinforced rear rigidity, providing better around grip and quicker exits from corners.
To elevate the thrill level on track, Honda has fitted a data logger, aptly named “LogR.” This device will time your laps, but more importantly, determine how good your driving technique is and then give you a score. During my test drive session, former Japan Touring Car and F3000 champion racer Akihiko Nakaya scored 96 points, the best score of the day. My score was a little lower as I was not as familiar with the track as he was, or at least that’s my excuse.
The only downside is that the Type R still doesn’t sound as sporty as it should, even with the new model’s improved exhaust flow and active valve design. If only the designers, or should we say engineers, had added as much aggression in the sound department as they have in the aerodynamics and interior styling departments. It doesn’t bark, pop or crackle like a Toyota GR Corolla, Ford Focus RS or Hyundai Elantra N, and the synthetic exhaust note pumped inside through the speakers needs a tweak.
Expectations are high for the new model, as the previous generation became a hit, selling 47,200 units worldwide. I am half saddened by the thought that this will be the last gasoline version of the Type R that I will be able to test drive on the race track. I am half enthused though to see what the Type R electric version might look like.
7 The Last And Most Powerful Civic Type R
Via: Honda
With the strict emissions regulations in Europe, many cars are powered by just three-cylinder 1.0-liter engines. Besides the need to downsize, automakers are turning to electrification to contribute their quota in ensuring a more sustainable environment, and probably to avoid being slammed wit steep fines.
Via Honda
In light of this, the 2023 Civic Type R will be Honda’s last gas-only model on the Old Continent. It seems Honda has saved its best for last, as the Japanese automaker claims the 2023 Civic Type R will be the most powerful iteration, with an upgraded 2.0-liter turbo-four engine.
Interior Quality And Technology
Honda
Finally, a true red interior like a Type R deserves? While the exterior may not make your eyes pop, the interior sure will. This is a driver-focused interior. With a completely new redesign, signature red suede seats, carpet, and floor mats grace the cabin. It’s simple; if you don’t like red, the Civic Type R is not for you.
A serialized nameplate on the dash shows off the exclusivity of the Type R variant. The dashboard now carries the new horizontal honeycomb design seen on the front bumper grill. There is no neglect of important touch points. The red leather-stitched steering wheel, aluminum shift knob, and aluminum pedals are all exclusive to the Type R.
Honda
A new +R driving mode further emphasizes the performance focus of the Type R. A unique RPM display, rev indicator lights, and gear position indicator keep the driver focused on what’s important. Honda’s LogR data logger and lap timer provide every performance figure even the most track-focused driver could ever want. With the ability to record and save lap times, the new Type R knows its purpose well.
Interior Dimensions
Seating Capacity
5
Headroom (front)
39.3 in
Headroom (rear)
37.1 in
Legroom (front)
42.3 in
Legroom (rear)
37.4 in
Shoulder room (front)
57.0 in
Shoulder room (rear)
56.0 in
Cargo Room
24.5 cu-ft