2023 Honda Civic Type R
With a heritage that stretches back some 30 years, Honda’s Type R models have always been the embodiment of performance and refinement, providing an exhilarating driving experience bar none.
This legendary tradition of building cars for the true enthusiast is now being taken to the next level with the introduction of the all-new 2023 Civic Type R, the most powerful Honda production vehicle ever to reach South African shores.
The new Civic Type R is the sixth iteration of this exciting model, which was first introduced in Japan in 1997.
Since then, the Type R has become the epitome of performance excellence and the 2023 model recently set a new track record for front-wheel drive production cars at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, home to the Formula 1 Honda Japanese Grand Prix.
Uprated engine
Under the vented aluminium bonnet of the All-New Civic Type R lurks an even more powerful version of Honda’s award-winning K20C1 engine. Output, torque, and response have all been improved by a redesigned turbocharger, increased air intake flow rate, and a new more efficient exhaust system.
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine now produces 235kW at 6 500 r/min and 420Nm of peak torque between 2 600 r/min and 4 000 r/min, gaining improvements of 7Kw and 20 Nm over the outgoing model.
A larger grille opening, bigger radiator and a new large-diameter fan improve engine cooling, ensuring sustained, optimal performance during extreme driving. To further strengthen the driver’s connection with the car, the active exhaust valve opens at higher rpm to heighten and enhance the sound of the engine.
Linked to this impressive powerplant is an equally impressive and improved six-speed manual transmission that offers an even more intimate and rewarding connection with the driver. A lighter flywheel and a revised rev-match system ensure perfectly paired rev-matching when shifting down through the gears, helping to maintain stability on corner entry.
Drivers can seamlessly switch between four pre-set performance settings – Comfort, Sport, +R and a new Individual Mode – to alter the characteristics of the engine, steering, suspension and even engine sound.
Driver-focused interior
The cabin of the all-new Civic Type R enhances the exhilaration of driving with emotive, performance-focused details and features that set it apart from the crowd. This includes exclusive red seats, carpet and trim, a redesigned and decidedly sporty-looking aluminum shift knob, and a Type R plate on the dash.
The driver and front passenger sit lower than before in new, lightweight, heavily bolstered sports seats with suede-effect upholstery, offering exceptional support and comfort on the track and during long drives. However, good visibility is ensured through the use of thinner pillars, relocated side mirrors, and a lower bonnet.
To better support performance driving, the Type R’s exclusive new 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster features clean, easy-to-read graphics and an extensive selection of displays.
A second new meter design is exclusive to the Type R’s +R mode and allows the driver to obtain necessary information instantly, with the engine rpm, and gear position placed at the top. A racing-inspired illuminated rev indicator located above the gauge cluster gives the driver a quick indication of engine rpm during performance driving.
Pricing and warranty
The new Civic Type R retails for R979 900. The price includes a five-year/90 000km service plan and a five-year/200 000km warranty.
