THE hotly-anticipated Honda Civic Type R will go on sale in March and everything points to it being well worth the wait.
Honda promises that it will be just as exhilarating to drive as the outgoing Type R while being a more refined super hatchback, with improved comfort levels.
Integrated styling and handling tuned for enhanced responsiveness and predictability are among its other strengths.
The model will be powered by the naturally-aspirated, high-revving 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine that powers the current Type R, but the unit has been significantly reworked to improve responsiveness using a new balancer shaft and drive-by-wire throttle control.
Maximum power is now 201PS, reached at 8.000rpm (previously 200PS at 7.400rpm) and Honda reports the car is more responsive generally, while improved aerodynamics ensure it cuts through the air more cleanly. Slightly lower gearing compensates for a small increase in kerb weight.
Acceleration figures are expected to be virtually identical to the 6.6 second 0-62mph time of the outgoing car - and the new car should match its top speed too, powering on to 146mph.
There's little doubt the model will attract much attention in the street thanks in part to seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels and a deep front spoiler incorporating a larger air intake.
A body-coloured tailgate rear spoiler follows the kick-up line from the rear quarter windows in providing added down-force. At the front, a black honeycomb mesh grille replaces the glass panel of other Civics.
While more discreet than on the outgoing car, Type R logos feature throughout.
Firstly, the front brake callipers wear the insignia, and stainless steel inserts on the door sills also carry the badge.
Inside, it's all about the driving experience. Front seats are racing-style buckets with large black alcantara bolsters and red stitching, red fabric seat cushions and backs.
The effective dual-zone, two tier dash, which is common to other Civic models, also features in the latest Type R, but with red illuminated dials set off by gun-metal effect switch panels on either side of the central display. The gearshift knob with aluminium-finish has a black boot with red stitching.
Expect to see the new model at Lookers Honda in Derby next March. Prices have yet to be announced.
Go to Lookers Honda: http://www.lookers.co.uk/
Also, see a great range of cars at Lookers subsidiaries:
