Civic Type R

Make
Honda
Segment
Hatchback

The all-new Honda Civic Hatchback debuted last month, boasting a sleeker design, a redesigned interior, and a new four-cylinder engine. If the styling is too subdued for you, Honda offers a range of accessories that spice up the conservative hatch, but if performance is your priority then you'll need to wait for the next-generation Civic Type R.

Just a few weeks after the new hatchback debuted, our spies have caught Honda testing a prototype of the new Civic Type R. Honda took a more restrained approach when designing the new Civic, which also appears to be carrying over to the new Type R.

At the back, the prototype's signature rear wing looks smaller, as does the integrated tailgate spoiler. Curiously, it looks like the rear wing has adjustable mounts, or they could be preliminary prototype parts.

Even so, the Civic Type R's sportier styling cues make the hatchback more visually appealing, from the lower suspension to the vented hood and larger wheels housing Bremo brakes. The prototype also retains its predecessor's exhaust system with triple tailpipes, but overall the design looks tamer than the current Type R. Like the current car, the new Type R will benefit from a stiffer suspension.

We don't get a look inside the cabin, but the standard Civic's new digital display and infotainment system will carry over. Under the hood, the new Civic Type R will likely be offered with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing around 320-340 hp, which will be sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual.

For reference, the current Type R is good for 306 hp and 295 lb-ft. Chances are this will be the last Civic Type R without any form of electrification. Honda has confirmed the new Civic Type R will go on sale next year, so we're expecting it to debut later this year.