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• New two-litre Vtec turbo
• Function dictates form
• New suspension systems,
• New +R mode
• Optional GT Pack
It’s been five years but Honda’s hottest hatch be in South Africa later this year, a few months after its launch in Europe.
The automaker has called the 2015 Civic Type R the ‘race car for the road’ and it’s powered by the “most extreme and high-performing Type R engine ever built”. Honda also claims it will set new standards in the high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment.
BETTER THAN EVER
The Japanese word ‘Buttigiri’ means ‘to break on through and leave the rest behind’ is the inspiration of the new Type R. The automaker says Honda’s new Vtec turbo engine with a sensuous sporting sound, aggressive function-led styling, and pioneering new chassis technologies combine to deliver one of the "most rewarding driving experiences available in any sector". And it does the same on track by the push of a button.
The car is available only as a five-door, with two trim grades, and goes on sale across Europe from July 2015.
The new two-litre engine has greater power, torque and response than any previous Honda production car engine and has advanced technologies to improve power, response and efficiency, claims the automaker. The six-speed manual gearbox allows for slick-shifting along with a four-pipe exhaust tuned for noise as well as performance.
THRILLING SPECS
Power figures are claimed at 228kW from 6500rpm, 400Nm at 2500rpm while it sprints to 100km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 268km/h. CO2 emissionsare 170g/km and is compliant with Euro 6 emissions regulations.
Honda says styling changes provide an aggressive stance but all have a functional purpose: “The size of the holes in the front bumper grille, which serve air to the intercooler, are specifically shaped to minimise aerodynamic losses. The sleek and aerodynamically-efficient design reflects a car developed first and foremost to perform at speed. The focus on aerodynamics has ensured a zero lift co-efficient and a minimum of drag.”
There are five distinctive colours available: white, black metallic silver, blue and red.
FORM AND FUNCTION
The seats, steering wheel and gear stick are all unique to the Type R model and take into account driving position, visibility of key information and driver control requirements.
Red double stitching on the black leather-clad steering wheel and black gear-lever gaiter matches the seats and the roof-lining is trimmed in black fabric.
The new +R mode, says Honda, increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving thrills and activates several dynamic changes to the car’s systems. It provides a more intense driving experience ideal for the track and changes the dash display when engaged.
The floating dial surrounds in the instrument cluster changes from glowing white to red. A +R logo is displayed to the left of the rev indicator and the Idling Stop system is disabled.
GT PACK
Customers can choose an all-new GT Pack to add further styling, convenience, infotainment and safety technology enhancements to their new Civic Type R. It adds signature red highlights to the front and rear splitters, front and rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlights, rain sensing auto wipers, power-fold door mirrors and cruise control.
The new +R mode, says Honda, increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving thrills and activates several dynamic changes to the car’s systems. It provides a more intense driving experience ideal for the track and changes the dash display when engaged.
The floating dial surrounds in the instrument cluster changes from glowing white to red. A +R logo is displayed to the left of the rev indicator and the Idling Stop system is disabled.
Customers can choose an all-new GT Pack to add further styling, convenience, infotainment and safety technology enhancements to their new Civic Type R. It adds signature red highlights to the front and rear splitters, front and rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlights, rain sensing auto wipers, power-fold door mirrors and cruise control.
ACCESSORY PACK OPTIONS
• Red exterior: Rally Red accents, including a front grille garnish, door mirror covers, a rear diffuser decoration and roof spoiler.
• Red interior: Red air outlet surrounds, steering wheel accents, red ambient front footwell lighting and doorstep garnishes.
• Carbon exterior: Carbon fibre fog light surrounds, tailgate garnish and rear wing– available with gloss black or red plates.
• Carbon interior: Carbon fibre air outlet surrounds, carbon fibre finish to the center console and glove box.
RACE READY: Honda's new Civic Type R will score top marks with hot-hatch lovers in SA. Image: Honda
