Honda will unveil the prototype of the highly anticipated Civic Type R, at the Tokyo Motor Show. Focused on high performance and modified vehicles, this show annually exhibits many concept vehicles. Visitors will be able to admire the new generation of this legendary variant popular with fans of the brand. This first public appearance, however, is not an official debut since the production model will not be presented until later in 2022.
Based on the 11th generation Civic four-door hatchback released for 2022, the vintage 2023 Honda Civic Type R will make its grand entrance dressed in an exclusive camouflage adorned with “R” logos and silhouettes of previous models. An “action packed test video”, possibly filmed at the Suzuka circuit in Japan, will accompany the presentation. It also reveals the work done by engineers during its design.
Although the Japanese manufacturer describes the new Type R as “the most efficient new generation of all time”, it has not yet disclosed the technical details of its engine. The current version is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Honda has confirmed the return of the six-speed manual transmission that drives the front wheels, but without specifying whether a dual-clutch automatic transmission will also be offered. There are rumors circulating about the inclusion of a hybrid system. The addition of an electric motor could shock some purists of the brand.
Adorned with its unique camouflage, the new Type R presents a more aggressive and low profile than the normal Civic, as well as more inflated fenders. On the menu of novelties, we find an enlarged grille and a GT3-style rear spoiler mounted on racing mounts. Black rims adorn the wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The triple exhaust consists of a large central end flanked by a smaller one on each side.
In addition to the 2023 Civic Type R prototype, other concept cars await visitors at the show, which will be held January 14-16, 2022 at Makuhari Messe in Tokyo. Mitsubishi will unveil its Vision Ralliart and Subaru, its fully electric STI E-RA. The production model Nissan Fairlady-Z, available in several variants, will make its official debut there, but the Japanese manufacturer will also present two concepts of recreational vehicles.
