We recently introduced you to an updated Honda Civic Type R , receiving not only the overhauls operated on the entire Civic range, but also specific overhauls in order to further improve its effectiveness on asphalt.
If mechanically there are no changes to register, visually we were able to detect slight changes that resulted in a front air intake 13% greater which, in combination with a new radiator, allowed, according to brand measurements, the coolant temperature to drop by 10 °C in extreme driving situations.
The chassis has not been forgotten. Among the various revisions are 8% stiffer synblocks for the lower rear suspension arms; and at the front we also have new syn-blocks and even new low-friction ball joints for a sharper steering.
The braking system is now made up of new bi-material discs at the front, reducing unsprung masses by 2.5 kg, complementing new pads and more immediate brake pedal action, with a stroke reduced by 15 mm before of the brakes to act.
The Alcantara steering wheel is new, and so is the gearshift knob, adopting a teardrop shape — evoking Type R models of the past — and including a 90g counterweight that improves, Honda says, accuracy and feel during the ride. your action.
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A more dubious addition in value to the Honda Civic Type R 2020 is Active Sound Control (ASC), meaning synthesized sound that overlays the actual engine sound, transmitted through the vehicle's audio system.
If a Civic Type R upsets a lot of people…
Two more Civic Type Rs are a lot more upsetting. Honda decided to add two new versions to its reference hot hatch, which occupy diametrically opposite spaces. Welcome the most "civilized" Honda Civic Type R Sport Line and the most hardcore Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition (Limited edition).
The Sport Line's most visible difference? The absence of a mega-rear wing.
starting with Sport Line , it is a more… discreet and refined Civic Type R. It's easy to identify, as it dispenses with the rear mega-wing, having a much more contained item. Also the red line that forms part of the Type R at the base of the bodywork sees its tone change to a more subtle grey.
It also promises a more refined and… smoother driving experience. The 19″ wheels — newly designed and exclusive to these models — wrapped by Michelin Pilot Sports 4S, with a softer wall. The ongoing refinement is complemented with more insulating material in the trunk and its respective lid, contributing to better soundproofing of the interior.
Inside, the tone is also more sober with the seats now appearing in black with stitching in a contrasting red.
On the way to the Nürburgring?
Going to the other extreme of the Civic Type R universe, we find the special and limited edition… Limited Edition . And it's not just cosmetic… this is the hardcore Civic Type R (FK8) so far, developed with a focus on improving circuit performance.
It's lighter at about 47 kg, when compared to the regular model (GT), and to reach that value, Honda removed the infotainment system and the air conditioning from its interior. Sound insulation material (roof, rear, bumper and dashboard) was removed, but unlike other circuit-optimized models, Honda decided to keep the rear seats in place.
It also gets new forged 20-inch wheels from BBS wrapped in Michelin Cup 2 tyres, the right “shoes” for the circuit. The suspension (modified shock absorbers) and steering were revised to cope with the loss of mass and the new rim/tire assembly.
Forged 20" BBS wheels and bi-material discs.
Everything points to us seeing the Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition attack “green hell” — can it beat the current holder of the fastest front wheel drive at the German circuit?
An unprecedented “Sunlight Yellow” tone will be exclusive to this version, complemented by contrasting elements in glossy black (ceiling, mirrors, air intake in the bonnet), as well as the “Civic” emblems in dark chrome on the rear. Inside we have an Alcantara steering wheel and seats in vibrant red, and a small numbered plate is added.
There will only be 100 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition destined for Europe , with sales starting next summer. Price? It has yet to be released, with the announcement coming closer to its market release date.
