Hot hatches of the world, begin the boot quaking, as the Civic Type R is on the way and Honda says it is the most extreme Type R yet. Note, that says just 'Type R', not Civic or indeed Civic Type R. Honda claims that the new model, which will be revealed to the world at the Paris Motor Show this coming week, will make previous Civic, Integra, Accord and even NSX Type R models looks like limp wristed wussies.
It's a bold claim to say that a front-wheel drive hot hatch is more extreme than the Ferrari baiting NSX Type R, but the NSX did not have a bespoke adaptive damper system. The four-point system can automatically adjust the front and rear dampers, depending on how you are driving the car. It is claimed to provide a comfortable ride during cruising, yet become firm when 'high-performance' handling is required. To go along with that the new Civic will also feature a 'steer axis' to minimise torque steer.
And with 280hp on tap, an element of torque steer could be expected. That 280hp is the same amount of power produced by the 3.0-litre V6 engine in the NSX, but the new Civic is unique in the Type R family for being turbocharged. This means (according to Honda) that it has more low down power that any other Type R but retains the redline buzzing VTEC system synonymous with Honda's performance models.
The new Civic Type R also benefits from the first +R button. Located beside the steering wheel this turns everything up to 11. Engine response is heightened with a more aggressive torque map implemented; the steering becomes more responsive; and the adaptive damper system stiffens up for better handling.
"In default standard mode, the Civic Type R is exceptionally agile, an everyday sports car with an enjoyable and fluid acceleration," explains Suehiro Hasshi, Project Leader for the Civic Type R.
"The '+R' button brings out a more dynamic and athletic car for the driver, to set pulses racing. The difference in character is immense. The '+R' mode is extreme; the car is ideal for track use and will be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast."
Anything else?
The new Civic Type R will debut at the Paris Motor Show this week ahead of going on sale in 2015. Before that the car has a date with the Nürburgring after Honda executives publically stated that the car would claim the lap record for a front-wheel drive car, a record currently held by the Renault Mégane R.S. 275 Trophy-R.