Perhaps the most anticipated hero car launch of 2023 finally breaks cover with the launch of the all-new 11th generation Honda Civic Type-R, internally designated as the FL5.
Priced at P3.88 million, the newest Civic is the latest vehicle to receive the Type-R treatment, the sixth Civic Type-R model and is also the most powerful Type-R model, outputting a considerable 325hp and 430 Newton-Meters of torque. Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission that features rev-matching, allowing you to go faster and smoother while attacking corners on the track or your favorite stretch of road while downshifting at full-tilt.
There will be an initial allocation of 40 units for the Philippine market in Championship White and a special blue shade. No confirmation yet of a second batch but given how successful and sold out the first batch was, it’s a fight to gain more units from the factory.
The K20C 2.0 liter twin-cam 16-valve 4-cylinder turbocharged i-VTEC engine makes a comeback, together with the unique, valved, three outlet exhaust, as well as the double axis MacPherson strut suspension and multi-link rear setup, together with a helical limited slip front differential providing the Type-R with sharp, crisp, progressive and confidence-inspiring handling. The rear tailgate is made from resin, allowing it to weigh 20% less than a conventional steel hatch.
The interior is simple, business-like, yet very sophisticated and classy; it feels like a great place to spend long periods of time as the Type-R matures more from a one-sided thrill-a-minute rollercoaster ride, to a proper grand-tourer with the long legs to match. There are a variety of driving modes available that alters the suspension firmness, throttle sensitivity, and also alters the digital LCD instrument cluster display. A new LogR track-app monitors your on-track performance such as measuring lateral acceleration / g forces, and lap times. Just make sure you bring your A-game to the track; the searing red Alcantara interior isn’t for the shy retiring types but really for alpha males.
Aside from the bold interior color choice, the Civic Type-R remains as practical and versatile as ever, seating five people and even comes with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat to accommodate copious cargo. It makes for the perfect weekend warrior while retaining daily practicality and civility. And because it is a Honda, driving position is better than ever, featuring small tweaks and improvements from its predecessor. There’s a feeling of directness and connectedness, the high-backed seats offering both excellent support with great comfort. The shifter remains one of the best in the business, featuring a satisfyingly mechanical, sniper rifle-like precision when shifting.
19-inch alloy wheels shod with maximum performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires sized 265/35R19 hide massive brakes, 350mm rotors up front clamped down by Brembo calipers and 305mm at the rear. There are now a plethora of functional cooling vents for the various heat exchangers to provide thermal stability for the Type-R, a weakness that was easily apparent in its predecessor, the previous-generation FK8 Civic Type-R which was prone to overheating through prolonged hard use on the track even when it was completely stock.
With Honda Cars Philippines ending 2022 with a very strong and positive sales performance of 14,000 units, the brand is optimistic for 2023’s prospects with amazing products such as the Civic Type-R.
