Honda has crossed the barrier and put itself in a mode of innovation. The Type R Honda is a living example of it.
It was first announced in September 1997. Since then, the Type R version of Honda has been a classic icon of its segment. The model stood out from the competition of its time due to its light and rigid body.
Type R comes along with the Civic but with a more powerful engine and better driving dynamics. It is an iconic Civic, but better. This latest model hatchback has won the hearts of millions.
If you know only a little about the Honda Type R, you can know the all and out about this model here. Today we will explore the reason behind the success of the standard Type R model. Why do people love it so much? There has to be a valid reason, right?
Honda Type R: Lineup History
25 years after the first appearance of the Honda Civic, America’s most popular city car, it received the Type R on August 19, 1997.
Initially, the Type R was known as the EK9. The early Civic Type R shared a lot of similarities with the Integra Type R which boasted one of the most powerful engines back then.
=> In 4 years, 1997-2001, the Honda Type R received some facelifts. It received a CD player, retractable electric door mirrors, power windows, air conditioning (auto), a keyless entry unlock system, aluminum sports pedals, and a carbon-type center panel.
It became the final model of the Type R (produced in 16,000 units in total) until the next generation Civic Type R was launched in 2001.
=> In 2001, Honda launched the next generation of the Civic Type R to the UK market. It came as a unique 3-door hatchback. In 2003, the Type R was updated with some improvements. This time, Honda worked on the customers’ and critics’ feedback to improve Type R.
It was reported that the front MacPherson strut setup, dull steering response, and lack of low-end torque were the primary issues with the second-generation Type R.
=> In 2007, the third-generation Civic was launched in two different models. It was based on the 8th generation of Honda Civic. One model was specially dedicated to the Japanese domestic market, and the other one was for the UK.
=> After this, Honda took a break. However, in 2012, we had numerous sources confirming the next generation of the Honda Civic Type R. It was after 3 years in 2015, Honda confirmed the production-ready model of the fourth generation of the Civic Type R.
Following this time, Honda launched some special editions of Civic Type R too. The black and white Civic Type R was one of them. Additionally, the Mugen Type R also came as a surprise. It was an aerodynamic package for the Type R.
=> In the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the Civic Type R was officially launched prior to its prototype exhibition in September 2016 at the Paris Motor Show.
=> After 5 years, in 2022, the new sixth-generation Type R came into action. It is based on the eleventh generation of Honda Civic. The new generation Type R was completely a different package than its early versions.
The pre-production model of the Type R broke the Suzuka Circuit lap record for front-wheel-drive cars with a lap time of 2:23.120. This broke all other previous records set by the 2021 Civic Type R Limited Edition of 2:23.993 minutes
No wonder that it was simply the ‘most powerful Civic Type R ever.’
The New Generation Honda Type R On A Short Note:
On July 20, 2022, the sixth generation of Civic Type R was launched. Every Honda model followed a model code. The sixth generation type R was known as FL5 in short.
According to Honda’s literature, this new generation Civic Type R was smooth and less hostile in design. It was special with less dominant vents and small air outlets. This new Civic Type R is said to surpass all of its previous other Type R generations.
It was better in many ways. The use of a 1-inch wider wheel was one of the primary improvements to notice. The new Civic Type R had a 20-inch wheel, whereas its previous version had 19-inch wheels.
The contact patch is also wider due to the use of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires with a profile of 265/30. Previous models used a 245/30 profile. The wide fenders remained the same as its predecessors.
More to this, it received a wide rear door and rear quarters with a plastic add-on. This configuration resulted in wide fenders.
Following this, the interior also received some updates. It received semi-bucket seats, red carpet, and floor mats. The smart interface for the instrument panel screen and infotainment system had the Honda LogR data logger. It can store data smoothly as lap times.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine was the same as its early generations. However, it did receive some incremental changes with better compact housing. The revised turbocharger engine improved the overall Type R efficiency.
The turbine count blades with a better optimization. It can now deliver more power and offer better airflow. There’s a significant 10% increase in the intake air flow rate with the improved exhaust system.
For example, the fifth-generation Type R delivered significantly 306 HP and 295 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the 2022 Type R delivered an increased output of 315 HP at 6,500 RPM and 310 lb-ft of torque somewhere between 2,600 and 4,000 RPM.
The improvements may seem so insignificant, after all, it’s only 9 HP and 15 lb-ft. You can feel the difference high on the road.
5 Reasons Why Honda Type R Is Special?
We hope our brief throwback on Honda Type R history and overview of Type R improvements helped you know the Type R better. This is the part where we describe why the Honda Type R is special.
1) Honda Type R Is Breaking the Records
A lot of individual tests have been done on Honda Type R. Although there is no official count from Honda yet. An independent report shows that the sixth-generation Type R jumps from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.3 seconds and runs a quarter mile at 104.2 MPH in 13.9 seconds.
We also know that the new Honda Type R can reach the top speed of 170 MPH. The new Civic Type R is undeniably a fast, high-value car of 2023.
2) Honda Civic Type R Has 4 Driving Modes
Most of Honda’s vehicles offer three standard modes. The new 2023 Civic Type R offers four driving modes. They are – Comfort, Sport, +R, and the third one is completely new – the Individual Mode.
Four modes are available, you can better personalize your engine options and response. All modes have improved standard functionality such as steering assist, suspension damping, reduced engine noise, rev-up speed, and also the model of the gauge cluster.
Here are what four modes are specific to,
- Comfort Mode: In this mode, your Type R will offer better comfort due to the use of a plushy suspension. You have a relaxed steering driving.
- Sport Mode: In Sport Mode, you have increased suspension damping for high-value driving. It offers a sharp response and makes more room for enjoyment.
- +R Mode: Get ready for a more aggressive and forceful driving experience with this mode on. The steering wheel is reduced and it lets the beast out on the road. But also be careful! The +R model also improves engine sound and your car provides you with all the necessary information spontaneously.
- Individual Mode: This mode promotes individual taste in driving preference. You can personalize your engine options, from suspension, gauge, and steering assist. You can ultimately develop your taste in engine responsiveness.
It’s the time of the year when you should explore more driving options. And the Honda Type R ensures you can.
3) The Honda 2023 Civic Type R Is High In Technology
Sporty and Versatile. What’s more? The new Civic Type R is also stuffed with all modern technology. At this point, Honda didn’t leave any stone unturned to turn the Type R into a symbol of modernity.
The display is wide and larger with a 10.2-inch all-digital LCD instrument system. Additionally, the Type R represents the largest touchscreen in the Type R history of Civic. It’s a 9-inch touchscreen with clear navigation options. You can find it four inches higher on the dashboard.
Meanwhile, like most other latest Honda 2023-24 models, the Type R also gets better Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Plus, you won’t be disappointed with the sound system. This Type R gets a Bose Centerpoint premium sound system. It comes with large and easy-to-tap buttons so that, you can use it without any point of objection.
Additionally, Honda plays the safety card quite well here with Type R. It’s loaded with both safety and the latest driver-assist technology. It’s loaded with all improved 10 airbags. Drivers and passengers all remain secure with high seatbelt technology. It’s the ultimate safety for passers-by too.
4) Honda Type R Has Better Aerodynamics
Honda put a lot of effort into Type R. The exterior of the new Type R received a more aerodynamic look that promotes an ultimate efficient sporty vibe. High-speed performance, stability, better performance – what’s not in there?
Even in dimension, the new Type R is slightly longer and wider but a bit lower than its earlier models. It is 180.9 inches in length (> 0.8 inches larger), 55.4 inches in height (< 0.5 inches lower), and 74.4 inches in width (> 0.6 inches wider).
Additionally, some features got a few modifications too. For example, the front bumper has minimized side wake. Also, inside the wheel wells, the new Type R Civic receives less pressure from the fender grilles.
Both the rear doors and fenders got bigger for better air circulation around the rear wheels. Furthermore, the rear spoiler is totally remodeled. The new rear diffuser can now escalate downforce and decrease drag.
5) Honda Type R Offers A Manual Transmission
Most other automakers have shifted to automatic transmission now. Honda is no exception to this. However, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is yet available with a six-speed manual transmission. It’s one of the fastest quick-shifting transmission systems.
The front wheel gets all the engine’s power, with more improvements that were not even valid for its previous generation. The gearbox also receives a lightweight flywheel than before and a completely renovated rev-match system.
The new Type R Civic is all about experiencing the finest of all. You get a smooth and accurate shifting mechanism. Honda has also made some new additions to the transmission system.
You now have, a single mass flywheel and a better cooling fin case design. This configuration keeps the temperature under control. Surprisingly, there’s also a liquid oil cooler for better optimization.
Built from heavy aluminum, it also had a special teardrop shape for better accuracy while you drive.
The 2023 Civic Type R Is the Best Catch of the New Year
It’s available in your nearest US Honda dealers, available at $43,200 (excluding the destination charge – $1,095)
That’s quite a value. But let us assure you one thing, the new Civic Type R is a total value for money. Honda Type Rs have always been special. And this time, Honda has worked to the point to deliver the best quality with its Type R Civic.
The new Type R is more fun and eccentric to drive. It may not be a Volkswagen Golf R or Ford Focus RS, but undeniably delivers the best practice of a joyful ride with Type R.
So, what do you think of the Civic Type R? Do you think it’s a value for money or do you need more? Let us know in the comments. Also, you can share our article with your friends, it will help us grow too.
We will come back soon.
Leave a Reply