Civic Type R

Make
Honda
Segment
Hatchback

What Honda has been teasing since October is finally happening. Presenting the all-new Honda Civic Type R, making its first live appearance at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon. However, the prototype still wears a "special camouflage designed exclusively for the Type R." But no matter, it's not a heavy camo wrap as many of the new hot hatches details are mostly visible.

Honda has also released two new videos of the Type R in action at Japan's Suzuka Circuit as part of its development and test driving. An official, camouflage-free reveal will happen later this year though an exact date has not been announced. What we know for certain is that it will be sold in the US.

In all likelihood, power will come from an upgraded version of the outgoing model's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It currently produces 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Power, once again, will be channeled to the front wheels only via a six-speed manual transmission. Those looking for an all-wheel drive hot hatch should check out the VW Golf R and the also upcoming Toyota GR Corolla.

Honda promises the new Type R will be the best performing generation to date. That should come as absolutely no surprise. What we're really looking forward to seeing is another Nurburgring lap record attempt. The just-discontinued Type R set a FWD 'Ring lap record time of 7:43.8 back in 2017.

Honda has already confirmed it's heading back to the Green Hell once again. The new model should improve basic performance specs. The 2021 Type Limited Edition, priced from $44,950, can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, the quarter-mile in 13.4 seconds at 108 mph, and a claimed top speed of 169 mph. The 2023 Type R will also be a formidable foe to the excellent Hyundai Veloster N. When equipped with the six-speed, it'll sprint to 60 in 5.1 seconds and do the quarter-mile in 13.8 seconds at 102 mph.

Honda no doubt wants to retain its FWD hot hatch crown and today's prototype live reveal is only the beginning of what'll be a wild ride.