The hotly-anticipated Honda Civic Type R goes on sale in March 2007 in the UK, and it’s been well worth the wait.While it’s just as exhilarating to drive as the outgoing Civic Type R, the latest high performance version is a more refined ‘superhatch’, with improved comfort levels, integrated styling and handling tuned for enhanced responsiveness and predictability.
The new Civic Type R continues to be powered by the naturally-aspirated, high-revving 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine but the unit has been significantly 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.
Further development of the Type R unit means more useable torque, as the switch to high-lift, long duration valve timing (the cam change) now takes place at a lower 5,200 rpm, and continues all the way to 8,000 rpm. 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 5,200 rpm.
Maximum power is now 204 bhp, reached at 8,000 rpm and the car is more responsive generally, 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 6.4-second 0-60 mph time of the outgoing car – and the new car should match its top speed too, powering on to 146 mph.Inside, it’s all about the driving experience. 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 color combination.
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