Paris show: Honda details 'extreme' Civic Type R

HONDA has released more details of its upcoming Civic Type R hot hatch, including images of an updated concept ahead of its Paris motor show debut, declaring it the “most extreme” sports model yet and the “start of a new performance era”.

In March Honda revealed the first Civic Type R concept at the Geneva motor show and the revised version for Paris appears unchanged, apart from its blue livery, suggesting the car’s design may be close to finalised for production.

The enormous rear wing with integrated tail-lights sported by the Geneva car remains, so too does the large quad exhaust, massive diffuser, bonnet ducts and aggressive body kit.

Honda has already confirmed the five-door hot hatch will have a 206kW 2.0-litre i-VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder engine, making it the first Type R not to be naturally aspirated.

Honda research and development large project leader Suehiro Hasshi said this will be the highest-output engine ever to go into a Type R model.

“Honda has had four Type R model derivatives – the Civic, Integra, Accord and NSX, “ he said.

“The engine in this new Honda Civic Type R is unrivalled against all of them in terms of raw power, torque and engine response.”

The latest details confirm new four-point adjustable dampers which can adapt “in a split second” and harden for more spirited driving or soften for cruising.

Mr Hasshi said the new ‘+R mode’ setting, which stiffens the dampers and changes the torque mapping and steering response, is ideal for the racetrack.

“In default standard mode, the Civic Type R is exceptionally agile, an everyday sportscar with an enjoyable and fluid acceleration,” he said.

“The ‘+R’ button brings out a more dynamic and athletic car for the driver, to set pulses racing. The difference in character is immense. The ‘+R’ mode is extreme the car is ideal for track use and will be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast.”

Honda said torque steer has been reduced by the addition of two supporting kingpins to the front suspension.

The Civic Type R will come with a six speed manual gearbox only, but Mr Hasshi said this is the best option for the car.

“The manual transmission allows the drivers to select the gear they want, for example, down from fifth to third when approaching a corner, “ he said.

“The concept of the new Civic Type R is to be the complete driver’s car so this was the best option.”

While the Civic Type R will go on sale in Europe early in 2015, Honda Australia public relations manager Melissa Cross told GoAuto the company's local arm would like to see the car go on sale locally, but it is yet to get the offical green light for Down Under.

“This model hasn't been confirmed for our market, however, it is very high on Honda Australia’s wish list,” she said.

“We understand that it is due to be launched in Europe next year. If it were to be confirmed for Australia, the time frame would be after it is launched in Europe.” If the Type R does make it to Australia, it will join the facelifted Civic hatch which is expected to go on sale in the first half of 2015.