Honda still hasn’t shared any details on the upcoming Civic Type R, but the prototype already broke the Suzuka FWD record.
The current Type-R is one of the best hot hatches on the market and an absolute favorite among enthusiasts… If not for the way it looks. The Mk7 Type-R has been around since 2016 and received multiple updates until its final version as the 2021 Type-R Limited Edition. As the ultimate edition of the hot-hatch, the Civic Type R was the fastest FWD car around Suzuka, with a time of 2 mins 23.993 secs.
However, in true ‘V-TEC yo’ fashion, Honda bested its previous result by an incredible 0.873 secs on its latest 2023 prototype. At first glance, the new R sports a similar design language to the current Civic Si with slimmer headlights and taillights. However, glimpses of the predecessor were still present with the enormous rear spoiler and triple exhaust pipes. Moreover, the fascinating takeaway about the result is that the new car is at least eight-tenths quicker than the Limited Edition, which boasted upgrades like forged aluminum BBS rims, dampers, and other components.
Besides the design, Honda also released an onboard video of the hot-hatch’s lap around the 3.6-mile Suzuka circuit with quite a few interesting bits. The automaker went #savesthemanual yet again with a similar 6-speed transmission, possibly utilizing the 2.0-liter i4 V-TEC in a different state of tune (easily over 300 hp). Moreover, the brand blurred out the driver’s display and the dashboard, although the layout is again reminiscent of the Si.
Fortunately for us enthusiasts, this year should be a riot amongst other hot-hatches/compact sports cars with manuals/DCTs like the Toyota GR Corolla, VW Golf R, Hyundai Elantra N, etc.
Expect the new Type-R to be revealed later during the summer, along with pricing and rollout details!
Gallery: 2023 Honda Civic Type R Prototype at Suzuka
