The 2023 Honda Civic Type R hath been divulged to the masses by Honda, albeit only partially. The intricacies of its forceful horsepower and the extent to which its chassis hath been altered remain elusive to us, except for the small indication that certain aspects have been “enhanced”.

However, what hath been made known to us is that this latest iteration of Honda’s fieriest hatchback is endowed with a mightier power than ever before. Furthermore, its semblance exudes an air of maturation, surpassing the aesthetic of its predecessor which, to the discerning eye, bore semblance to the majestic mobile suit, Gundam Wing from the annals of Japanese anime history.

This all-new 2023 Honda Civic Type R has been fashioned from the bottom up to offer an enthralling and irresistible driving encounter, whether on the thoroughfare or the racetrack. The sleek and refined design is imbued with highly integrated state-of-the-art aerodynamics. It is worth mentioning that this year Honda commemorates three decades of Type R and half a century of Civic, making this release an even more momentous event.

The 2023 Honda Civic Type R, a beloved exemplar of high-performance engineering and a coveted gem in the eyes of motoring enthusiasts worldwide, was ceremoniously revealed tonight in Los Angeles with none other than NTT INDYCAR SERIES prodigy driver Colton Herta at the helm.

This brand-new Honda Civic Type R has been meticulously crafted and purpose-built from the ground up to deliver a mesmerizing performance and an inebriating driving experience, both on the open roads and the racetrack, making it the most formidable vehicle in Type R’s illustrious 30-year chronicle. It’s no enigma that the aesthetic design of the previous Civic Type R has always sparked either adoration or repugnance. However, the latest CTR has garnered relatively fewer fervent reactions, be they positive or negative.

Notwithstanding, our estimations posit that the aesthetical prowess of the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is indeed remarkable, bedecked with a mere handful of provocative embellishments that, by no means, detract from the otherwise staid design.

It is true that there remain some counterfeit apertures designed solely to satiate one’s vanity, but the ones located aft of the front wheels have now been rendered functional. While the rear spoiler remains a salient characteristic, it no longer exemplifies the caricature of a juvenile racer.

Heralding from the city of Hawthorne, California, on the eve of July 20, 2022, the revelation of the 2023 Honda Civic Type R, a preeminent symbol of high performance venerated by automotive enthusiasts around the globe, was conducted at a ceremonious occasion in Los Angeles, with Colton Herta, a veritable superstar driver of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, at the helm.

The all-new Honda Civic Type R represents the apogee of the Type R legacy, boasting unparalleled potency and an intricately crafted design that evokes pure exhilaration, both on the thoroughfare and on the speedway. By engineering this vehicle from the ground up, Honda has produced a mechanical marvel, imbued with a compelling performance that will undoubtedly arouse the senses of even the most discerning drivers.

The outgoing iteration of the Civic Type R bequeaths its successor with unique bodywork, including flared fenders that exude a distinctively aggressive aesthetic and bestow an unparalleled appearance that transcends the conventionality of other Civics. Furthermore, Honda has equipped the new Type R with rear doors that are wider than those of the customary hatchback, thereby adding an extra element of exclusivity to this already superlative automobile.

The lateral sills represent an additional distinctive embellishment, and the posterior area displays a dusky diffuser endowed with the triple-tip, center-exit exhaust, which is emblematic of the Type R. The inception of our acquaintance with the 2023 Honda Civic Type R was more than a year ago when veiled prototypes caught our attention.

Honda’s official promotional campaign was launched half a year ago, showcasing diverse events ranging from automobile exhibitions to establishing lap records, all featuring cars still enshrouded in camouflage. Presently, the period of anticipation has culminated, and the revelation is now in full swing. Nonetheless, a few insignificant details such as the potential, proficiency, and price remain undisclosed.

Indubitably, it must be acknowledged that these are not trifling particulars, but Honda proffers the assurance that more data shall be forthcoming in due course. What we are presently able to disclose is that the latest Civic represents the most potent Type R ever crafted. Honda avers that this is the fastest and most robust Honda-labelled conveyance that has ever been proffered to US purchasers.

The customary turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant from the preceding Type R still maintains its position beneath the bonnet, transmitting its vigor to the front wheels through a modified six-speed manual transmission. One must note that there is neither a sequential gearbox, all-wheel drive, nor any exuberant hybrid technology. In terms of powertrain, it is an authentic classical hot hatchback.

It would be facile to neglect the fact that the R-rated Civic now features a novel wheel-and-tire ensemble, which is of paramount significance. The previous version was fitted with 20-inch rims sporting 245/30 Continental SportContact 6 summer tires, characterized by their insubstantial sidewalls.

Graciously, a smaller group of 19-inch lightweight rollers with more robust sidewalls is now included as standard. Nonetheless, be not disconcerted; Honda only reduces the diameter of the wheels. The CTR’s contact patch is now noticeably broader due to its spanking new 265/30 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires.

The all-new Honda Civic Type R Touring Manual 2023, the announcement of which would typically be accompanied by an ostentatious display of its performance specifications. Alas, such information is currently shrouded in secrecy, to be unveiled by Honda in due course closer to the car’s release this autumn.

However, let us not despair, for we possess some salient details regarding the powerhouse at its core that shall appease our curiosity. The forthcoming engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, with the reliable accomplice of a six-speed manual transmission endowed with a rev-match feature to complement its potential.

Honda has proclaimed this to be the “most powerful Type R ever,” surpassing its American counterpart which formerly possessed 306 horsepower, whilst those in Europe and Japanese markets boasted 316 horses. Can one conjecture that the 2023 Civic Type R will be endowed with no less than 317 horsepower?

The very phrasing used by Honda leads us to ponder this possibility, although it is wise to remember that corporate marketing can be an elusive acquaintance. Similarly, Honda has divulged that the suspension and steering shall be somehow enhanced, although further details shall be revealed at a later date.

The Honda Civic Type R Touring 2023 boasts Type R-specific front seats that are available in any hue of your choosing, albeit in a luminous red shade. We had the privilege of experiencing these novel seating apparatuses and are pleased to report that they are exceedingly comfortable. Furthermore, the U.S.-spec model is adorned with a crimson carpet for the first time, which was previously only found in other markets. At present, we are unsure whether Honda will offer an ebony-colored carpet or not.

Regarding the vehicle’s framework, Honda has not divulged any details on the underpinnings of the Civic Type R, aside from it being “enhanced.” The car is, however, lower, lengthier, and broader than its antecedent, and it sports a wider set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. These enhancements have contributed to the new Type R achieving a lap record for front-wheel-drive vehicles at Suzuka.

Aesthetically speaking, we finally have a comprehensive view of the Type R’s colossal rear wing. It’s not the sole upgrade; the front clip now sports a mesh grille and revised corner intakes, which lend it a slightly more aggressive demeanor. Subtle side sills can be observed on the fenders behind the front wheels, which enhance airflow efficiency around the vehicle.

The Type R’s wheels and tires adroitly fill bulging fender flares, and to maintain its athletic appearance, the hot hatch now features wider rear doors than its standard Civic counterpart. The exterior makeover is complete with a rounded rear fascia that boasts a diffuser and a triple-exit exhaust.

The interior of the hot hatch is similar to the top trims of the regular Civic hatchback. It is equipped with a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic dual-zone climate control, and a fully digital gauge cluster.

Performance-Focused Engineering

The advent of the 2023 Honda Civic Type R Touring showcases a paradigm shift in automotive engineering, wherein a novel lightweight and remarkably rigid body materializes to elevate the vehicle’s high-speed stability and augment its scalpel-sharp reflexes. The Nürburgring-tuned and rigorously tested Civic Type R, already renowned for its euphoric driving sensation, receives a further boost in its addictive driving feel through the enhancement of its suspension and steering performance.

Furthermore, an upgraded iteration of Honda’s highly lauded turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, possessing increased potency and responsiveness, is adjoined to an ameliorated six-speed manual transmission and rev-matching system, allowing for an even more intimate and rewarding connection with the driver.

Powerful Aerodynamic Design

The Honda Civic Type R Touring for the year 2023 boasts an elongated, diminished, and expanded structure, adorned with an imposing yet graceful and sophisticated form that seamlessly amalgamates refined aerodynamics to deliver an impeccably balanced downforce and a reduction in drag.

Moreover, broader tires are perched on lithe wheels with robust fenders that protrude conspicuously. A sporty mesh grille, patterned after the intricate honeycomb trimming within the interior, constitutes a constituent of a novel, more assertive front bumper layout. Augmented aerodynamic efficacy is accomplished through larger front fender grilles and an overhauled side sill design located behind the front wheels. Furthermore, wider rear doors that are exclusive to the Type R, a newly-fashioned rear spoiler, a revamped rear bumper that exhibits its singular three-circular exhaust outlets, and a freshly crafted rear diffuser, all work in tandem to highlight the vehicle’s more belligerent stance.

Immersive Cockpit Experience

The 2023 iteration of the Honda Civic Type R Touring boasts an all-new cockpit that facilitates the most challenging driving experiences with its expressive, performance-oriented touches and amenities. The aforementioned cabin now features a plethora of new additions such as the famed red seats, carpet, trim, and stamped Type R plate that add a sense of novelty to the driving experience. Moreover, in high-G driving scenarios, the risk of body sliding is significantly mitigated through the implementation of upholstery that bears a striking resemblance to suede and boasts an impressive friction coefficient.

A distinct and innovative +R driving mode meter design adorns the interior, which situates a graphic engine rpm display, rev indication lights, and gear position indicator atop the display. This strategic arrangement enables the driver to rapidly acquire the pertinent information they require to achieve peak performance on the road. Additionally, drivers have the freedom to select which vehicle information they wish to display on the lower multi-information display, thus enhancing the overall level of customization and control at their disposal.

Where This Vehicle Ranks

Vehicle	Starting Price
Honda Civic Type R	$44,390
Volkswagen Golf R	$45,835
Hyundai Elantra N	$34,015
Toyota GR Corolla	$36,995
Volkswagen Golf GTI	$31,625
Honda Civic Si	$29,595

What’s New for 2023?

The upcoming iteration of the Honda Civic Type R Touring aims to provide the same degree of pleasure as its antecedent while also boasting heightened potency and a more alluring countenance. Despite the enlarged frame of the novel CTR, its sinews have burgeoned to accommodate diminutive 19-inch wheels shod in broader Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. Furthermore, the front and rear tread widths have been augmented, ameliorating brake ventilation.

This CTR’s output has been raised by nine horsepower and fifteen pound-feet of torque by virtue of a newfangled 315 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and a six-speed manual gearbox. Furthermore, the Type R’s onboard datalogger is now accessible through the 9.0-inch infotainment screen, obviating the need for a smartphone app to record lap times and access performance metrics.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Behold, the Honda Civic Type R Touring 2023, is a marvel of automotive engineering that exudes both dynamism and grandeur. The pricing of this automobile is a subject of keen interest to those with discerning tastes and a penchant for the finer things in life.

The Civic Type R comes in two flavors, each commanding a price of $44,390. However, the true splendor of this vehicle is that it leaves no room for uncertainty when it comes to additional expenses, for it requires no further expenditure beyond its initial MSRP.

In terms of value proposition, the Civic Type R easily outshines its closest competitors, such as the Volkswagen Golf R. In fact, it stands on equal footing with the entry-level Toyota Supra in terms of pricing. While opinions may differ on the subject of seating capacity, it is a universally acknowledged fact that this prodigious five-door sports car is an affordable embodiment of speed and performance.

Engine and Performance

The Honda Civic Type R Touring of 2023 remains driven by the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine; however, its configuration has undergone a series of updates. Notably, the turbocharger has been subject to revision, and the exhaust system has been enhanced to yield greater efficiency. These alterations have resulted in an awe-inspiring augmentation of the engine’s output, with a remarkable 315 horsepower being generated at 6500 revolutions per minute (rpm) and 310 pound-feet of torque being produced between 2600 and 4000 rpm.

In addition, the vehicle has benefited from further enhancements, including a more sizable radiator and an improved brake cooling system. The Civic Type R’s dynamic exhaust valve has also undergone refinement, and it now opens at a higher rpm, thereby enhancing the sonorous four-cylinder symphony it exudes. Further, the vehicle has been equipped with a lighter flywheel and a revamped rev-match mechanism, providing additional advantages when engaging with the car’s powertrain.

This front-wheel-drive Honda vehicle is equipped with an ingenious dual-axis strut front suspension that expertly minimizes torque steer. Though the new Civic Type R may not be as visually radical as its predecessor, it still features a conspicuous rear wing, as well as other aerodynamic additions and 19-inch wheels that are enveloped by sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tires. During our test run, the CTR impressively reached 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and crossed the quarter-mile marker in 13.5 seconds at 106 mph. Even more remarkably, it achieved a 1.02 g on our skidpad.

Fuel Economy

Per the Environmental Protection Agency’s assessment, the modest augmentation in horsepower discernible in the 2017 Honda Civic Type R Touring does not impinge upon fuel efficiency. The esteemed regulatory agency’s calculations for this fervid hatchback’s metropolis and expressway fuel economy are 22 and 28 miles per gallon, respectively. Upon installation of the six-speed manual transmission, the aforementioned figures are commensurate with the EPA’s evaluation of the all-wheel-drive Volkswagen Golf R. However, the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic provides the Golf R with a two-mile-per-gallon surplus on the interstate. Upon conscientiously scrutinizing the Type R’s genuine fuel economy on our exacting and arduous 75 miles per hour thoroughfare, as part of our stringent examination procedure, this segment shall be revised accordingly.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2023 iteration of the Honda Civic Type R Touring evinces a marked departure from its antecedent, the 2017 model. Whilst the interior may be deemed more rudimentary in comparison, the seductive aesthetic remains unimpaired. The ersatz carbon fiber garnish, crimson highlights, and the unaltered comfortable and supportive front seats all feature conspicuously.

Nevertheless, caution must be exercised when grasping the metallic gear knob to avoid scorching one’s palm, cognizant of the ambient temperature. The new digital cluster exhibits an array of shift light indicators atop to preclude overshooting the redline whilst transiting between gear shifts. As the Civic Type R Touring maintains parity with the standard Civic hatchback with regard to both passenger and baggage capacity, it is well-suited to function as an exemplary dual-purpose vehicle.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2023 iteration of the Honda Civic Type R Touring boasts a state-of-the-art infotainment system, which operates through a sizeable 9.0-inch touchscreen that is tastefully embedded within the vehicle’s dashboard. This cutting-edge system is furnished with ubiquitous characteristics, including wireless compatibility with the widely-used Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot that is offered via a subscription-based model. The system also supports wireless charging for smartphones, enhancing convenience and elevating the driving experience to unprecedented heights.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2023 iteration of the Honda Civic Type R Touring has yet to be subjected to crash testing by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It is our fervent expectation, however, that this esteemed model shall persist in incorporating a comprehensive array of ubiquitous driver-assistance technology.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Honda Civic Type R Touring 2023, albeit a remarkable automotive creation, proffers a standard limited and powertrain warranty, which regrettably falls short in terms of complimentary maintenance. For individuals who yearn for more comprehensive protection, Hyundai’s plans, which outshine their Honda counterparts in all three categories, are certainly worth perusing.

The limited warranty, which encompasses a duration of three years or 36,000 miles, provides some measure of security. Moreover, the powertrain warranty, which spans five years or 60,000 miles, affords a degree of reassurance. However, it should be noted that no free scheduled maintenance is offered by Honda.

Specifications

The forthcoming Honda Civic Type R Touring of the year 2023, exquisitely flaunts a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with the capacity to ferry a limited count of four passengers, through its prodigious 4-door hatchback form.

As for the monetary aspects, the Base model of this vehicular marvel would set one back a significant sum of $43,990, while the As Tested version, loaded with additional enhancements and augmentations, would dent the wallet by $44,385. However, the Championship White paint option, obtainable for a meager $395, bestows an alluring and resplendent appeal to this already illustrious machine.

Underneath the hood of this illustrious vehicle, resides a turbocharged and inter-cooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4 engine, featuring an aluminum block and head with direct fuel injection. The engine’s displacement amounts to a grandiose 122 cubic inches, which roughly translates to an astronomical 1996 cubic centimeters.

Furthermore, this automotive masterpiece houses a breathtakingly mighty engine, which can generate an awe-inspiring power of 315 horsepower, at an impressive 6500 revolutions per minute. The torque capacity of this vehicular stunner is equally astounding, with an immense 310 pound-feet of force, attainable at a relatively lower rpm of 2600.

The Honda Civic Type R Touring 2023 boasts of a transmission system that entails a 6-speed manual, which affords the driver a heightened level of control and precision while operating the vehicle.

Concerning the chassis, the suspension system comprises struts at the front and a multilink arrangement at the rear, which promotes superior handling and stability. Additionally, the brakes are of a vented disc type at the front, measuring 13.8 inches, while the rear brakes measure 12.0 inches in diameter. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, measuring 265/30ZR-19 (93Y) DT1, offer unparalleled grip and traction.

In terms of dimensions, the Honda Civic Type R Touring 2023 has a wheelbase of 107.7 inches, a length of 180.9 inches, a width of 74.4 inches, and a height of 55.4 inches. The passenger volume of the car is a whopping 99 cubic feet, while the cargo volume is an impressive 25 cubic feet. The curb weight of the vehicle is a relatively light 3183 pounds.

The latest iteration of the Honda Civic Type R Touring for the year 2023, as tested by C/D, has yielded some awe-inspiring results. Let us delve into the intricacies of its performance metrics, utilizing the most bombastic and sophisticated English vocabulary to fully grasp its potential.

Starting with the acceleration, this beastly machine is capable of catapulting from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.9 seconds, with a jaw-dropping 100 mph being achieved in 12.1 seconds. The quarter-mile run was accomplished in a blistering time of 13.5 seconds, attaining a top speed of 106 mph. Furthermore, the Honda Civic Type R Touring can hit an impressive 140 mph in 28.3 seconds, albeit not taking into account the 1-ft rollout of 0.3 seconds.

When tested under rolling start conditions, the Honda Civic Type R Touring displayed exceptional capabilities with a 5-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. Its prowess was further exhibited in top gear performance, with the 30-50 mph range taking a mere 9.4 seconds to cover, and the 50-70 mph range only requiring 6.4 seconds of its attention. The manufacturer’s claim of a top speed of 169 mph appears to be no empty boast.

In terms of braking, the Honda Civic Type R Touring did not disappoint, stopping from 70-0 mph in an impressive 153 feet, with a 100-0 mph stopping distance of 308 feet. Additionally, the Honda Civic Type R Touring exhibited exceptional road-holding capabilities, achieving a skidpad rating of 1.02 g over a distance of 300 feet.

Fuel economy, although not the main priority of this speed demon, yielded a respectable observed average of 20 mpg. However, when cruising at a steady 75 mph, the Honda Civic Type R Touring displayed greater efficiency, achieving a fuel economy of 30 mpg and boasting an impressive highway range of 370 miles.

Civic Manual Type R Package Includes

Category	Specification
EPA Classification	Large Cars
Drivetrain	Front Wheel Drive
Engine	Engine Order Code: NA
	Engine Type and Required Fuel: Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
	Displacement (liters/cubic inches): 2.0 L/122
	Fuel System: Gasoline Direct Injection
	Maximum Horsepower @ RPM: 315 @ 6500
	Maximum Torque @ RPM: 310 @ 2600
	Cooling System Capacity (quarts): NA
Transmission	Transmission Order Code: NA
	Transmission Description: Manual w/OD
	Number of Transmission Speeds: 6
	First Gear Ratio (:1): 3.62
	Second Gear Ratio (:1): 2.12
	Third Gear Ratio (:1): 1.53
	Fourth Gear Ratio (:1): 1.12
	Fifth Gear Ratio (:1): 0.91
	Sixth Gear Ratio (:1): 0.73
	Reverse Ratio (:1): 3.76
	Final Drive Axle Ratio (:1): 3.84
	Clutch Size: NA
Fuel Economy and Range	EPA Greenhouse Gas Score: NA
	CO2 Emissions, 15K mi/year (tons): NA
	Range, city/highway (miles): 272.80 / 347.20
	EPA Fuel Economy, combined/city/highway (mpg): 24 (Est) / 22 (Est) / 28 (Est)
	EPA Fuel Economy Equivalent (for hybrid and electric vehicles), combined/city/highway (MPGe): N/A / N/A / N/A

Specification	Value
Fuel Capacity / Gas Tank Size	12.4
Aux Fuel Tank Capacity (gallons)	NA
Exterior Dimensions
Wheelbase (inches)	107.7
Length (inches)	180.8
Width, without mirrors (inches)	74.4
Height (inches)	55.4
Front Track Width (inches)	64
Rear Track Width (inches)	63.5
Minimum Ground Clearance (inches)	4.8
Liftover Height (inches)	NA
Interior Dimensions
Passenger / Seating Capacity	4
Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet)	99
Front Head Room (inches)	39.3
Front Leg Room (inches)	42.3
Front Shoulder Room (inches)	NA
Front Hip Room (inches)	NA
Second Row Head Room (inches)	37.1
Second Row Leg Room (inches)	37.4
Second Row Shoulder Room (inches)	56
Second Row Hip Room (inches)	48.9

Category	Specification
Trunk Space (cubic feet)	NA
Cargo Space/Area with Rear Seat Down	NA
Cargo Space/Area with Rear Seat Up	24.5
Steering
Steering Type	Rack-Pinion
Steering Ratio (:1)	NA
Turns, lock to lock	NA
Turning Diameter / Radius, curb to curb (feet)	NA
Turning Diameter / Radius, wall to wall (feet)	NA
Suspension
Front Suspension Type	Strut
Rear Suspension Type	Multi-Link
Front Shock Absorber Diameter (mm)	NA
Rear Shock Absorber Diameter (mm)	NA
Front Anti-Roll Bar Diameter (inches)	NA
Rear Anti-Roll Bar Diameter (inches)	NA
Brakes
Brake Type	4-Wheel Disc
Anti-Lock-Braking System	4-Wheel
Front Brake Rotors, diameter x thickness (inches)	13.8 x NA
Rear Brake Rotors, diameter x thickness (inches)	12 x NA
Rear Drums, diameter x width (inches)	NA
Wheels and Tires
Front Wheel Size (inches)	19 X 9.5
Front Wheel Material	Aluminum
Front Tire Size	P265/30YR19
Rear Wheel Size (inches)	19 X 9.5
Rear Wheel Material	Aluminum
Rear Tire Size	P265/30YR19
Spare Wheel Size (inches)	NA
Spare Wheel Material	NA
Spare Tire Size	NA
Towing
Maximum Trailer Weight, dead weight hitch (pounds)	NA
Maximum Tongue Weight, dead weight hitch (pounds)	NA
Maximum Trailer Weight, weight distributing hitch (pounds)	NA
Maximum Tongue Weight, weight distributing hitch (pounds)	NA
Weight Information
Base Curb Weight (pounds)	3188
Electrical
Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F	NA
Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)	NA