For many, the Honda Civic Type R is the ultimate hot hatch. While rivals like the Volkswagen Golf R have become soft and cushy, the Japanese extraordinaire has remained the preferred choice of the keen driver. There's no dual-clutch transmission here; all you have is a slick-shifting manual 'box and beautifully crisp steering.

The latest iteration was revealed this week and, judging by the response from fans, Honda has a hit on its hands. But those salivating at the thought of owning what is possibly the world's greatest hot hatch are in for a long wait - the company has said it will only be introduced stateside in the fall.

You can, at least, see your dream Civic Type R thanks to Honda Japan's all-new visualizer. While it's not quite as immersive as a configurator, it allows you to see the different colors that will be made available, learn more about the Type R, and even start up the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine.

Just before the launch, the Civic Type R's color palette was leaked. We learned the Corolla GR's fiercest competitor will be available in five hues: Boost Blue Pearl, Rallye Red, Sonic Gray Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, and, of course, the signature Championship White. We must admit, we were rather taken by the Type R exclusive white at launch, but the visualizer shows us the hot hatch looks rather tasty in Boost Blue Pearl and Rallye Red.

No matter which color you opt for, all Civic Type R models receive a black-painted rear spoiler and side mirror caps, as well as the same lightweight 19-inch wheels. The interior is also only made available in a racy shade of red, which may not appeal to everyone's tastes. Still, there are plenty of delightful touches littered across the cabin.

A special plaque sited on the dashboard proudly displays the vehicle's serial number. Another nice touch is the machined aluminum gear lever that helps the driver shift smoothly.

Honda is still keeping the Type R's power outputs close to its chest. There's no mention of official horsepower or torque figures, but the Japanese website does note the revised 2.0-liter engine now boasts a smaller turbocharger that is lighter and has enhanced rotational response. There's also an active exhaust system that increases the exhaust note as you accelerate.

Additional information and pricing will be revealed closer to the official introduction, and we hope that coincides with the launch of an American configurator. While we're a bit disappointed to see just five color choices, we hope the American subsidiary offers more scope for personalization. Even if they don't, the 2023 Civic Type R is shaping up to be one of the all-time greats.

When it arrives, it will have to take on the subdued but rapid Golf R and fend off attacks from the latest challenger, Toyota's all-wheel-drive Corolla GR. But, judging by its latest efforts at Suzuka Circuit, the Type R may still come out on top.