The new 2023 Honda Civic Type R is the most powerful Type R ever

With a slew of crossover and EV launches, the hot hatch segment has recently laid dormant. Though, Honda doesn’t seem to comprehend the concept of laying dormant as it launches its most powerful hot hatchback ever – the 2023 Civic Type R. Also, it might be the last time the “VTEC kicks in yo” by itself, as forthcoming generations are most likely to be electrified.

The new Civic Type R, now in its sixth generation, gets cosmetically based on the recently launched 11th-generation Civic sedan. The Japanese gishi, or technicians in Japanese, have made aerodynamic upgrades similar to the previous edition, but the visual drama has been dialled down so it can be catered to its target market and not nine-year-olds. It gets a wing at the rear, but it isn’t a polarizing one. The aggressive bumpers on the new car look significantly more mature against the previous Type R’s dynamic pair with multiple cuts and slashes.

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The cabin of the new Type R builds on its standard sedan sibling’s design theme with the deployment of bespoke dynamic elements. For instance, the cabin gets splashed with red upholstery with the fitment of sports seats suited for road and track use. A serialized Type R plate on the dashboard is an addition for the 2023 model year. Moreover, a new +R driving mode can provide instant dynamic driving information such as rpm display, rev indicator lights and gear position indicator.

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Powertrain components are lifted off the previous-gen Type R, but they have been “evolved” by Honda’s gishi. While the specifications haven’t been revealed yet, Honda says the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine features a revised turbocharger that makes this the strongest VTEC from the firm yet. The transmission continues to be a six-speed manual ‘box with improved mechanicals. To add to its accolades, Honda claims the 2023 Civic Type R recently set a new front-wheel-drive production car track record at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, home to the Formula 1 Honda Japanese Grand Prix 2022.

Pricing and additional details on the 2023 Civic Type R will be provided closer to launch this fall.