Honda premiered their all new Honda Civic Type-R at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. We went by the Honda stand to have a look at what is new with the Japanese hot-hatch.
We immediately notice its even more aggressive aerodynamic package – to the extent that was possible – clearly setting it apart from the rest of the Civic range. Part of the further refined aerodynamic package are a smoother underbody, front air curtain, lightweight rear wing, and vortex generators at the trailing edge of the car’s roof line. The intimidating and muscular body of the Honda Civic Type-R is said to have the best-in-class balance between lift and drag, making it more stable at higher speeds.
Let’s continue with the revised 2.0-liter VTEC turbo engine, which was optimized to now deliver 320 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Further optimized engine control settings should lead to better drivability and more immediate throttle response. Linked to the VTEC Turbo engine is a six-speed manual transmission which was further improved by a rev match control system.
The chassis and suspension on which the Civic Type-R is built is notably lighter and stiffer than its predecessor, and as a result torsional rigidity is further improved by 38%. The suspension at the front is similarly revised with new geometry to minimize torque steer and maximize sporty handling. The suspension at the rear is improved with a new multi-link suspension featuring unique high rigidity suspension arms.
Drivers that are looking to use the Honda Civic Type-R more as a daily driver will be happy to know that Honda expanded the driving modes of the car with a comfort mode. Next to comfort mode there are the ‘sport’ and track-focused ‘+R’ modes. Production will start at Honda’s Swindon plant in the UK this summer, supplying the rest of the world including Japan.
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