Honda unveils refreshed 2020 Civic Type R

Honda unveiled its 2020 Civic Type R refresh during the Tokyo Auto Salon. The refresh brought about several improvements to the vehicle, such as revised aerodynamic performance, plus the addition of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assist technology. 

For the 2020 model year, the performance hatchback has a few more tricks up its sleeve with the addition of new modifications. These include two-piece brake rotors and new brake pads. The brake pads are designed to reduce the effects of brake fade on the vehicle, as well as improve high-speed braking efficiency. 

Aside from the brake upgrade, the Japanese performance hatchback comes with suspension revisions as well as new exterior design elements. The suspension now comes with updated dampers for better ride comfort. New stiffer rear bushings have been added to the vehicle for improved grip. Modifications have also been done to the front suspension of the vehicle. Honda says that these were done in order to reduce friction and to improve steering feel for the Civic Type R. 

Outside, the refreshed Civic Type R gets a larger front grille opening that allows for more airflow to enter the vehicle, which allows better cooling. A new color option, called Boost Blue, has been added as well.

Changes can also be seen inside the Honda Civic Type R. The steering wheel is now wrapped in Alcantara, while the short-throw shifter has been redesigned.

As for safety, the Japanese performance hatchback geta Honda Sensing. The safety system includes collision braking mitigation, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and traffic sign recognition. The addition of the driver-assist and safety technology also marks the first time that the Honda Sensing system will be standard across the entire Civic lineup in the United States.

Power for the vehicle remains the same, coming from a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. It puts out the same 310 hp and produces 400 Nm of torque. The drivetrain also remains unchanged as power is still sent to the front wheels of the vehicle.