September 1st 2022
Honda has revealed more info regarding the new Civic Type R. While the company didn’t provide all the details we wanted to know, we can definitely say it is the most powerful Type R the automaker has ever produced. Thanks to the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that now churns out 315 horsepower (235 kilowatts) and 310 pound-feet (420 Newton-meters) of torque.
The subtly updated mill and other changes give the 2023 Civic Type R a power boost of 9 hp and 15 lb-ft of torque over the earlier generation. It is definitely not a big power increase but the company highlights that the tweaks make the vehicle more polite on the streets.
The maximum peak torque is accessible at a fairly low 2,600 rpm through 4,000 revs. The improved turbocharger boasts augmented turbine blades that develop more pressure with a wider range and extra efficacy. The improved powerplant emits the gases via a big straight-through exhaust, including an active valve that allows extra fuel (and noise) to leave the system.
So, with all these changes, what are the performance figures? Unfortunately, Honda is mum about that, but we know it is fast. That’s evident from the Type R’s front-wheel-drive record set at Suzuka.
The new Type R completed the circuit in 2 minutes 23.1 seconds, thrashing the present Civic Type R’s record of 2 minutes 23.9 seconds. Although it doesn’t seem a big difference, cutting almost a second off a lap time at Suzuka needs more than a 9-horsepower boost.
Regarding the information we know, Honda made the new performance hatch a little lengthier and wider than the outgoing model with a 1.4 inches longer wheelbase and a 1.0 inches wider front track. At the rear, the width grew by 0.75 inches, and the suspension got a complete makeover. Instead of the Continentals rubber, it uses Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, which have a 19-inch diameter but a slightly wider track in front.
For any performance car, its weight is very crucial; the lower it is, the quicker it becomes. So, how much does the new 2023 Civic Type R weighs? Well, we don’t know yet, but we can tell the previous gen’s Limited Edition trim weighed a little less than 3,100 pounds. Rumours say the 2023 Type R will weigh 3,153 pounds, but we can’t believe that since the source’s other information regarding 326 hp proved wrong. A weight between 3,100 and 3,200 pounds is a safe bet right now.
The new hot hatch from Honda comes with a red and black interior theme and a six-speed manual transmission. An R+ drive mode is available alongside the Individual Mode that owners can customise. A tweaked Honda LogR datalogger observes and saves real-time performance metrics. Five shades are accessible for the performance hatchback, comprising Championship White, Rallye Red, Crystal Black Pearl, Sonic Grey Pearl, and Boost Blue.
Like many other details, Honda holds back the price information. Expect it to be available before its launch date this fall.
Source and Images: Motor1