All Honda Type Rs there was always something special about them, and they could offer the highest level of driving experience to those who were lucky enough to get behind the wheel. The latest Civic Type R is no different, a sports car capable of more than just being efficient and very fast between the turns of the track but also the pleasure of driving on any roads. A car that lives up to expectations, even if you have to race on the track in the most adverse conditions.
We had a great opportunity to test the new Civic Type R on the track and on the Imola highway. A truly unique opportunity to fully experience the enormous potential of this sports car that finds its natural habitat on the curves of the track.
It’s a pity though what’s the weather did everything to complicate the few laps that we had behind the wheel of a Japanese sports car (4, including the arrival and return to the pits). Already because we found ourselves in very bad conditions. Wind, outside temperature that fluctuated between 2 and 3 degrees and rain with little sleet making an appearance from time to time.
The circuit in Imola is certainly not easy, it is very technical, and heavy rain required a different approach to driving. Luckily we always had a JAS Motorsport driver by our side explaining to us how to approach the track in these very specific conditions. It is forbidden to drive on the outer curbs, to approach the corners more carefully and, above all, to drive as much as possible in the center of the track in order to avoid unpleasant surprises.
After a test lap to measure the track in obviously not optimal conditions, we immediately tried to tighten up. In a straight line in front of the pits on the Civic Type R, even in the rain, and without exaggeration, we accelerated to almost 200 km / h. In Tamburello version The braking stability of the new Type R is commendable. Even on pavement full of water, the car does not break down, always remaining well-controlled.
Clearly credit goes to the fact that Honda has done a great job in develop the settings of this car. Help, however, also comes from the electronics, which immediately intervene when you tend to exaggerate a little, as happened to me, for example, when I took a Gresini too cheerfully, sending the Type R into oversteer, risking a spin. However, this is not a problem, because the sports car is easily restored and returns to the correct trajectory in a few seconds.
As you gain confidence, you will appreciate the power and traction of the engine more and more, as well as the high precision of the 6-speed manual transmission developed by Honda. Turn after turn, you want to push harder and harder, but your “head” reminds us that it’s better not to overdo it with the poor condition of the asphalt.
As soon as the circles at our disposal are completed, we understand that the Type R is a model that he is part of an endangered breed store with care. A real athlete who can entertain and engage. Therefore, it is not surprising that the cars intended for the Italian market are already sold out.
Honda engineers built on the hard work already done on the eleventh generation Civic to perfect every detail, bringing the new Type R to life. measure Length 4594 mm, width 1890 mm, height 1401 mm, wheelbase 2734 mm. Thus, compared to the hybrid Civic, the new sports car is 8 mm lower and 90 mm wider, as well as 13 mm lower and 15 mm wider than the previous Type R.
Enlarged wheel arches hide 19″ alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 265/30R/19 tires with a special composition. Japanese engineers have done a great job developing the aerodynamics of this car. Every detail is designed to increase the cargo capacity of the new Type R. For example, as Honda explains, new front fenders with a large air duct behind the wheel help reduce pressure inside the wheel arch.
The airflow from these ducts is directed the entire length of the vehicle through the side skirts and then directed away from the wheel arches and rear end via a small spoiler located at the end of the side skirts.
However, behind we find new speaker which, combined with new spoiler, further increases downforce and at the same time helps to reduce air resistance. The sports car can also count on a new Brembo braking system with redesigned brake ducts and a new mechanical master cylinder.
The cockpit is clearly racing-inspired while retaining the ambience of the latest generation Civic. The seat is 8mm lower than the previous Type R. In addition, we see new sports seats designed not only to better support the driver’s torso on the track, but also to provide good comfort for all-day use.
Even a lot of technology is missing, starting with new digital tools with customizable graphics. Using driving mode +R, only the basic driving information for the track is displayed. Instead, a custom mode allows the rider to customize the display layout to suit their preference.
Among the new features available from the manufacturer exclusively for this model, find Honda Log R 2.0, a data logger built into the infotainment system that collects driving information from a variety of sensors installed in the vehicle. A very useful application for those who like to use the car on the track.
For this new generation of sports car 4-cylinder 2.0 Turbo VTEC has been further improved. Through the use of a number of technologies borrowed from the world of motorsport, Honda engineers have improved power, torque and responsiveness. All the improvements that have been made have allowed this engine to deliver 329 HP at 6500 rpm, with a torque of 420 Nm at 2200 rpm, which is maintained up to 4000 rpm. The red zone starts at 7000 rpm.
The engine is then mated to a new six-speed manual transmission designed for even faster and more precise shifting. In addition, it features an automatic rev-matching system that provides perfect rev-matching when downshifting, helping to balance the car when entering corners.
For the new Civic Type R, Honda announces maximum speed 275 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h in 5.4 seconds.
The new Honda Civic Type R will likely be the last to feature an internal combustion engine without electrification. How much does this sports car cost in Italy? Price starts from 58 300 euros.
Source: HD Motori
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.