Honda Civic Type-R: The Classic Revolutionized

First launched two decades ago in 1997, the Honda Civic Type-R continues to reinvent itself. The Civic project saved the sales crisis that the Japanese manufacturer went through in the 70s, by launching a successful vehicle that ended up spreading throughout the world.

With its latest version, Honda reaches ten generations of the Civic, its best-known four-wheel drive. The philosophy of this range is to achieve a vehicle that is precise and exciting to drive.

To do this, the Type-R meets four requirements:

• Driving similar to that of a racing car.
• Driver involvement in all factors, such as maneuverability and steering.
• Maximum feeling of control over speed and braking.
• Minimization of accessories that distract the user from the driving sensation.

Type-R 2017: the philosophy of this range taken to its maximum expression

The 2017 Type-R model maximizes stability at high speeds, ideal for those who want to push the capabilities of this model to the limit. The exterior aesthetics have become more aggressive than ever, leaving behind the relative understatement of the first generation.

This has been achieved with several aerodynamic elements, the most notable being the large rear wing, which protrudes above the glass. Keep in mind that this increases safety by not interfering with the driver’s vision.

This aggressive aesthetic is considerably risky, as the doors are closed to those who prefer a vehicle with a simple appearance. Even so, it can be said that the attraction ends.

Interior design as striking as the exterior

Inside the Type-R there are details that do not stop drawing attention, with colored elements such as the belts, the steering wheel or the lines of the dashboard.

The control console incorporates a stopwatch, a pressure gauge on the accelerator and brake and a warning light for the revs. All this aims to bring the vehicle even closer to a competition model. Of course, as much as the car tries to bring the driver closer to the feeling of being on a circuit, you should not be seduced and pay attention to the risks of the road.

A vehicle dedicated to the pilot

The first problem that can be seen is the shortage of accessories in relation to the price, which starts at € 40,000. As we have mentioned before, this is to keep the user focused on driving;  and this is what you buy: sensations, to leave behind the small and luxurious details.

The driver is the protagonist at all times, with a steering wheel, gear lever and pedals that respond with maximum precision.

Technical performance: the main thing about this Honda model

The high acceleration of this Japanese car makes it possible to complete the 0-100 km / h in 5.7 seconds. On the other hand, the maximum speed is no less than  272 km / h.

Likewise, it should be noted that the revolutions per minute stretch comfortably up to 7,000, and it is at 6,500 rpm when the maximum power peak is reached.

The 306 hp of this vehicle is transmitted through a 6-speed gearbox. To avoid scares in the event that one of the wheels loses grip, it brakes automatically, while the speed is maintained in the others until all four return to a normal traction situation.

The suspension has also been improved,  allowing for a more pleasant ride on rougher surfaces. In exchange, a reduction in the volume of the trunk is paid, and the Civic incorporates again, now, and as it should be – and it was in previous generations – for a car of these pretensions a multi-link system for the suspension of the rear axle.

Even with everything else, the damping stiffness is adjustable, again giving the rider more control over every element of the ride. This regulation varies according to its three driving modes.

The vehicle starts in Sport mode , which is what it was born for.  From there you can switch to Comfort mode for an easy and enjoyable ride, or + R mode to maximize the racing car feel.

The exhaust pipe is made up of three centered outlets, which allow the model to gain 10 hp of power. In turn, this measure  reduces noise at high speeds.

Road trip improvements

Although clearly not a family vehicle, the performance of the Type-R contribute to better road driving feel, what  keeps comfort on long journeys.

In short, we are facing a vehicle with aggressive aesthetics, although limited accessories. A model that does not avoid attracting attention and allows the driver to merge with the vehicle.  Ideal for those who want to enjoy driving to the fullest, beyond a simple movement from one point ‘A’ to another point ‘B’. The new Civic Type-R thus brings interesting qualities compared to other current sports vehicles.