Honda’s much anticipated Civic Type
R, making its world debut in Paris, takes the concept of the ‘superhatch’
into new realms of desirability. Compared to its predecessor, the new
Type R is just as exhilarating to drive, but greater cabin refinement,
fully integrated styling, and handling that is tuned for enhanced predictability
and responsiveness, deliver an even more rewarding driving experience.
Click for larger view
There will be different levels
of equipment available, ranging from a fully equipped car to
one that even has the rear parcel shelf removed.
.
.
With these variants, the new Civic Type
R therefore looks set to endear itself to a whole new wave of enthusiasts
and to repeat the cult success of the first ‘CTR’ which exceeded all
sales predictions. First deliveries will begin in early 2007.
Click for larger view
Click for larger view
Click for larger view
Click for larger view
Click for larger view
Click for larger view
Click for larger view
Given the outstanding performance
credentials of its predecessor, Honda saw little purpose in
increasing engine output. The new Type R therefore continues
to be powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC
engine with similar output, but reworked for greater refinement
and responsiveness thanks to a new balancer shaft and a drive-by-wire
throttle. The 201 PS maximum power output is now reached at
8,000 rpm (previously 200 PS at 7,400 rpm).
While the headline performance
figures are expected to be virtually identical to the 6.6
second 0-100 km/h time and 235 km/h top speed of the Type R
in its previous incarnation, the engine enhancements mean the
new car is more responsive generally, while improved aerodynamics
ensures the new car cuts through the air more cleanly. Slightly
lower gearing compensates for a small increase in kerb weight.
VTEC variable valve timing
and VTC variable inlet camshaft technology continue to underpin
the engine architecture. Its exhilarating, high revving nature
is retained, but the switch to high lift, long duration valve
timing now takes place at a lower 5,200 rpm, and continues all
the way to the 8,000 rpm red line. There is a new i-VTEC indicator
just to the right of the digital speedometer which is illuminated
within this rev range.
Widely praised for its ride and
handling balance, the chassis of the Civic 5-door forms the
basis for all 3-door models and provides an ideal platform for
a high performance derivative.
Building on the Civic Type S suspension
which is fine-tuned for sharper chassis dynamics to match its
sportier profile, the Type R takes those modifications on to
the next level. Like the Type S, its rear track is 20 mm wider
than that of the 5-door model, but otherwise damper, bush and
spring characteristics are all unique to Type R.
225/40 ZR18 tyres provide
added grip, while the 15 mm reduction in ride height further
reduces body roll. What’s more, the fuel tank’s central location
beneath the cabin floor lowers the centre of gravity and the
body’s inertia moment. Firmer steering, a quicker ratio and
stiffer steering box mountings in combination provide pin-sharp
responses to steering wheel input.
The Civic 5-door already
offers one of the stiffest body structures in the C-segment;
and the Type R’s body is further enhanced, playing a key role
in the particularly responsive chassis dynamics. Extra strengthening
has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of
the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings,
while the lower cross member just ahead of engine bay provides
greater rigidity. The overall result is a chassis offering more
predictable characteristics than the old model, with levels
of responsiveness and stability that are some of the best in
class. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced
ride comfort in keeping with the increased refinement of the
new Type R.
The new Type R’s bold styling
is undeniably assertive in its appearance. The aggressive
looking body has a series of fully integrated aerodynamic parts
that together with a 15 mm reduced ride height – compared to
5-door and Type S models – and standard seven-spoke 18” alloy
wheels, are a clear indication of the car’s potent nature. The
deep front spoiler incorporates a larger air intake as well
as triangular foglamps whose shape mirrors the large exhaust
tailpipes at the rear. There’s a distinct body coloured tailgate
rear spoiler for added downforce that splits the rear tailgate
glass rather than the raised glass profile featured on Civic
5-door and Type S models.
Other identifying features are deliberately
discrete: Type R logos feature on the front brake callipers and the
glass panel grille of the Civic Type S is replaced with a honeycomb
mesh and central red ‘H’ logo.
Click for larger view
Step over the stainless steel
door sill inserts, complete with ‘Type R’ logo, into the
cabin, and again there is no mistaking that this is a car developed
for driving excitement. Front seat occupants are gripped by
bucket seats with large black Alcantara bolsters with red stitching
and red fabric seat cushions and backs. Two distinct rear seats
repeat the same colour coordination.
The highly effective and strikingly
stylish Dual Link concept fascia common to other Civic models naturally
features in the Type R, but with red illuminated dials set off by gun
metallic switch panels on either side of the meter display. The driver
grips a black, perforated leather covered steering wheel with red stitching
and central ‘H’ logo, while the matching gear shift knob with aluminium-finish
has a black boot with red stitching.
And, as a finishing touch and for added
exclusivity there is a plaque engraved with the car’s unique serial
number placed just ahead of the gear lever.
For those customers who want added
convenience and an enhanced specification, there will be a fully equipped
version available. Additional features include curtain SRS bags, cruise
control, fog lights, automatic lights and wipers and dual zone air conditioning.
A state-of-the-art Navigation system, with voice control functionality
as well as RDS traffic monitoring, is offered as an option.
Taking the Type R philosophy to
its logical conclusion, a lighter Civic Type R will be available. The
deletion of items such as the audio system, rear load cover, engine
under cover and reduced noise insulation material brings weight down
by 40 kg. Like its predecessor, the new Type R will also be homologated
for racing (FIA Group N and Group A), meeting a large demand from existing
customers. A full range of competitive racing parts and racing service
will also be made available for them to fully enjoy their passion.
All the range of Type R and Type S, are
to be built exclusively alongside the Civic 5-door range at the Honda
of the UK Manufacturing Ltd. (HUM) in Swindon.
