Thursday 14th September 2006

Honda reveals new Civic Type R

With two faster ones in the wings

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2007 Honda Civic Type R

Honda's new Civic Type R goes on sale in March 2007 -- and it'll be joined by two more extreme examples, only one of which will be available here.

The new top-end Civic Type R is said to offer improved comfort levels, integrated styling and handling tuned for enhanced responsiveness and predictability -- there's no more power as the 197bhp engine is unchanged from the outgoing version.

However, the unit's been reworked to improve responsiveness using a new balancer shaft and drive-by-wire throttle control. VTEC variable valve timing and VTC variable inlet camshaft technology continue to underpin the engine structure, reckons Honda. It all means more useable torque, as the switch to high-lift, long duration valve timing (the cam change) now takes place at a lower 5,200rpm, and continues all the way to 8,000rpm. So that screaming, high rpm VTEC range is broader and more accessible.

To mark the entry to this power band, a new i-VTEC indicator just to the right of the digital speedometer is illuminated once the revs rise above 5,200rpm.

Maximum power is now reached at 8,000rpm -- previously it was 7,400rpm -- and the car is more responsive generally, reckons Honda, while improved aerodynamics ensure the new car cuts through the air more cleanly. Slightly lower gearing compensates for a small increase in kerb weight.

Acceleration figures are expected to be virtually identical to the 6.6-second 0-62mph time of the outgoing car – and the new car should match its top speed too, powering on to 146mph.

Chassis

The five-door Civic chassis forms the basis for all three-door models and the Type R. The Type R builds on the Type S suspension with its sharper dynamics, and like the Type-S, its rear track is 20mm wider than that of the five-door model, but otherwise damper, bush and spring characteristics are all unique to Type R.

Extra strengthening has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings, while the lower cross member (just ahead of the engine bay) provides greater rigidity. The overall result is a more predictable chassis, with improved levels of responsiveness and stability. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced ride comfort, so the Type R is easier to use in all conditions and on all surfaces.

Broad 225/40 ZR18 tyres provide added grip, while a 15mm reduction in ride height further reduces body roll. Firmer steering, a quicker ratio and stiffer steering box mountings all provide sharp responses to steering wheel input; the fuel tank’s central location beneath the cabin floor helps to lower the centre of gravity and reduces the body’s inertia moment. Seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard and – helped by the car’s low ride height – these tuck neatly under the body-coloured arches.

Bodywork

The deep front spoiler incorporates a larger air intake to channel air to the induction system, as well as triangular foglamps. It sports a body-coloured tailgate rear spoiler, which follows the kick-up line from the rear quarter windows, and provides added down-force.

At the front, a black honeycomb mesh grille replaces the glass panel of other Civics, sporting the red ‘H’ badge. While more discreet than on the outgoing car, Type R logos feature throughout. Firstly, the front brake callipers wear the insignia, and stainless steel inserts on the door sills also carry the badge.

Interior

Inside, front seats are racing-style buckets with large black Alcantara bolsters and red stitching, red fabric seat cushions and backs. The seat bench in the back repeats the same colour combination.

The effective dual zone, two tier dash – common to other Civic models – also features in the latest Type R, but with red illuminated dials set off by gun-metal effect switch panels on either side of the central display. The driver grips a black, leather-covered steering wheel with red stitching and central ‘H’ logo, while the gear shift knob with aluminium-finish has a black boot with red stitching. A plaque engraved with the car’s unique serial number is placed just ahead of the gear lever.

Also available will be a fully-equipped GT version, with additional features such as cruise control, dual zone air conditioning, fog lights, automatic lights and wipers and curtain SRS bags. A voice-activated, state-of-the-art navigation system is offered as an option.

The Type R and Type S versions of Civic will be built exclusively alongside the 5-door range at the Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd (HUM) in Swindon.

The Civic Type R goes on sale in the UK in March 2007. Pricing has yet to be announced.

Two Type R beaters

However, the Type R is not the only fast Civic in town. Autocar reports that the Paris motor show will see a stripped-out lightweight version that's the same as the Type R but without some of the trim and noise-proofing.

Honda said it won't import this one but you will be able to get a more extreme, track-only version that's been developed in conjunction with race team JAS Motorsport. You can't drive it on the road, and Honda won't sell it: you'll have to talk directly to JAS.

Being track-only means it's likely to be more focused, with a roll-cage, harnesses, stiff suspension and few interior comforts. But it will be a hoot to hoon. More details when we get to Paris.

[havoc]

article said:

Autocar reports that the Paris motor show will see a stripped-out lightweight version that's the same as the Type R but without some of the trim and noise-proofing.

So in other words, the Type-R isn't a Type-R, it's still a lardy hatchback just with a manic engine. But they'll do a proper Type-R afterwards, just not sell it over here! Don't you just LOVE marketing?!?

Bill Hicks said:

Anyone in Marketing? Kill yourselves now! ... There is no excuse for your existence.