Honda has released a preview of the next bearer of their coveted Type R badge. And surprise: it’s another Civic, and it’s due to grace the 2016 Paris Motor Show with its mean looks and mega front-wheel drive performance.
By now, we’re probably so used to seeing the 2017 Honda Civic hatch that the mere mention of it incites a collective yawn. Honda has continually ‘teased’ the UK-made hatch version of the 10th generation Civic, even shipping ready versions to the US all the while trying to hype up the full debut at the Paris Motor Show.
But despite being hewn from the Civic hatch, it doesn’t really make it the first Type R with this body type in this generation. That distinction belongs to the purpose-built Civic Type R that was launched last year even before the garden variety Civic sedan was introduced.
There’s a lot that has changed here from the relatively sedate Civic hatch. An aggressive overall treatment includes a brushed metal exterior finish, an unapologetically red splitter and larger cooling ducts on either side, Type R badge on the grill, a Subaru STI-style hood scoop and side sill, red outline wheels to match the sill and bumper colours, larger Brembo brakes, huge rear wing, and a triple exhaust arrangement that nods to the Ferrari F40 and 458 Italia.
Supposedly, those looking for all-out speed and agility should favour the original 2016 Civic Type R (FK2). This one, on the other hand, might be positioned for those looking to pepper that performance with real world practicality.
The Honda Civic Type R Prototype, as it’s known for now, will be sharing floor space at the Honda booth of the Paris Motor Show with the far less extreme Civic Hatch - also making it’s first official appearance there.
No specifications have been released to accompany these pictures, but it would be a crime to not equip it with the same 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine that generates 228kW and 400Nm as well as the six-speed manual transmission as in the three-door Civic Type R.
Actually, that power and torque figure might rise slightly to cope with the heavier 5-door body and put it in pouncing position against new Ford Focus RS.
For more on Honda vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
