We knew that the Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition was something special when it was announced earlier this year. After all, what better foundation for a hardcore track-oriented hot hatchback than the 306-horsepower Type R? Since then, the Limited Edition has made the headlines a couple of times, most notably for becoming the FIA World Touring Car Cup's official safety car.

Now, the lighter Type R has impressed again by setting a new lap record at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, an achievement that Honda teased just a couple of weeks ago. The Civic's 2:23:993 lap time becomes a new record for a front-wheel-drive car at the circuit. That eclipses the 2:25.45-second lap time achieved here by the FWD Renault Megane R.S. Trophy-R.

This isn't the first time that the Civic Type R has set lap records, proving what an engineering feat its FWD drivetrain is. Despite retaining the regular Type R's 2.0-liter VTEC turbo-four, it's the Limited Edition's other upgrades that helped it to demolish the 3.6-mile Suzuka Circuit. For instance, it uses lightweight alloy wheels and reduced sound-deadening materials, along with recalibrated steering.

The challenging Suzuka Circuit has been used to test high-performance Hondas since 1962 and it was actually back in February that the Limited Edition achieved its new record. It includes a 0.7-mile back straight and a 'figure-eight' layout with several high-speed chicanes that are especially challenging.

"The Type R Limited Edition reflects Honda's dedication to refining the essence and driving pleasure of Type R as a sportscar and exceeding the expectations of our customers," said Hideki Kakinuma, the Project Leader for the Civic Type R. He added that the two-piece floating brake system and the grippy Michelin Cup2 tires, along with a reduction in unsprung weight, allowed the Limited Edition to carry high speeds into the challenging corners of the Suzuka Circuit.

Painted in a searing shade of Sunlight Yellow and with its contrast gloss black roof, it's hard to miss the Civic Type R Limited Edition. The driver-focused cabin with its bucket seats and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel is the perfect place to tackle tracks like Suzuka. If you manage to get your hands on one of the 600 Limited Editions coming to the US, you'll be at the helm of what is probably the best FWD hot hatch on the planet.