At Civic Type R, extra strengthening has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings, while the lower cross member just ahead of engine bay provides greater rigidity. The overall result is a chassis offering more predictable characteristics than the old model, with levels of responsiveness and stability that are some of the best in class. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced ride comfort in keeping with the increased refinement of the new Civic Type R.

The new Type R's bold styling is undeniably assertive in its appearance. The aggressive looking body has a series of fully integrated aerodynamic parts that together with a 15 mm reduced ride height - compared to 5-door and Type S models - and standard seven-spoke 18" alloy wheels, are a clear indication of the car's potent nature. The deep front spoiler incorporates a larger air intake as well as triangular foglamps whose shape mirrors the large exhaust tailpipes at the rear. There's a distinct body coloured tailgate rear spoiler for added downforce that splits the rear tailgate glass rather than the raised glass profile featured on Civic 5-door and Type S models.

Other identifying features are deliberately discrete: Type R logos feature on the front brake callipers and the glass panel grille of the Civic Type S is replaced with a honeycomb mesh and central red 'H' logo.

Step over the stainless steel door sill inserts, complete with 'Type R' logo, into the cabin, and again there is no mistaking that this is a car developed for driving excitement. Front seat occupants are gripped by bucket seats with large black Alcantara bolsters with red stitching and red fabric seat cushions and backs. Two distinct rear seats repeat the same colour coordination. The highly effective and strikingly stylish Dual Link concept fascia common to other Civic models naturally features in the Type R, but with red illuminated dials set off by gun metallic switch panels on either side of the meter display. The driver grips a black, perforated leather covered steering wheel with red stitching and central 'H' logo, while the matching gear shift knob with aluminium-finish has a black boot with red stitching.

And, as a finishing touch and for added exclusivity there is a plaque engraved with the car's unique serial number placed just ahead of the gear lever.

For those customers who want added convenience and an enhanced specification, there will be a fully equipped version available. Additional features include curtain SRS bags, cruise control, fog lights, automatic lights and wipers and dual zone air conditioning. A state-of-the-art Navigation system, with voice control functionality as well as RDS traffic monitoring, is offered as an option.

Taking the Type R philosophy to its logical conclusion, a lighter Type R will be available. The deletion of items such as the audio system, rear load cover, engine under cover and reduced noise insulation material brings weight down by 40 kg. Like its predecessor, the new Type R will also be homologated for racing (FIA Group N and Group A), meeting a large demand from existing customers. A full range of competitive racing parts and racing service will also be made available for them to fully enjoy their passion.

All the range of Type R and Type S, are to be built exclusively alongside the Civic 5-door range at the Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd. (HUM) in Swindon.

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