Honda recently unveiled the new 2023 Civic Type R, giving us a look at the redesigned hot hatch’s exterior and interior while promising a performance boost. The automaker left out a few “minor” details in its reveal, however — namely, the Type R’s performance specs. Now, Honda has shared more information on the hatchback’s powertrain and performance upgrades along with its new track- and street-oriented technology features.
More Power, Improved Performance
Performance upgrades for the Type R include a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that now makes 315 horsepower and 310 pounds-feet of torque (up from 306 hp and 300 pounds-feet in the previous model). The company says improvements come by way of a redesigned turbocharger, higher air-intake flow rate and more efficient exhaust, which makes for the Honda brand’s most powerful production vehicle ever sold stateside.
The engine is mated with a six-speed manual transmission, which returns as the hatchback’s only option. In a review of the 2021 Type R, we found the transmission to be one of the best in its class, and Honda claims it’s now even better: A lighter flywheel and revised rev-match system improve cornering stability, while a high-rigidity shift lever offers more precise gear changes.
To further boost performance, Honda says the body and wheels have been redesigned. The hot hatch grows 0.8 inch longer, 0.5 inch lower and 0.6 inch wider than its predecessor, and it rides on lightweight 19-inch black-alloy wheels with wider sport tires. The front and rear tracks also grow by an inch and 0.75 inch, respectively.
A handful of other improvements include revamped brakes with improved cooling, two-piece front brake rotors for reduced unsprung weight and a retuned brake booster for better control. Increased body rigidity, and a retuned suspension are designed to improve stability and steering. Joining previously available drive modes (Comfort, Sport and R Plus) is an Individual Model mode that brings a more customizable driving experience. Visual tweaks include a new front bumper, wider rear doors and a new rear spoiler and diffuser designed to reduce drag.
New Tech for Track or Street
The Type R’s familiar red interior returns with some new tech features. A 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster combines an information display, tachometer and gear-position display, according to Honda. A specific R Plus mode meter and illuminated rev indicator display the engine rpm for performance driving.
The Honda LogR Performance Datalogger uses information from the vehicle’s onboard computer to provide performance feedback, record lap times, and monitor acceleration and steering to help drivers improve their track-driving skills. The system is now a built-in vehicle app in the new Type R; a smartphone app is no longer required.
The 2023 Type R’s larger 9-inch touchscreen now comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Other standard features include wireless charging, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system and built-in navigation with voice recognition. The Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist tech also returns.
Pricing and Release Date
2023 Honda Civic Type R | Manufacturer image
The 2023 Civic Type R is expected to go on sale in the fall, and pricing will be revealed closer to its arrival. The hot hatch will compete with performance-oriented rivals including the Subaru WRX, Toyota GR86 and Volkswagen Golf R. The 2022 WRX starts at $30,600, the 2023 GR86 at $28,995 and the 2022 Golf R at $45,185, so expect the Type R to fall in that range.
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