Honda Civic Type R 2023

Honda Philippines initially showcased the Honda Civic Type R at the 2017 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) and did not confirm the introduction of the model until July 11, 2017. On January 19, 2023, HCPI launched the 6th generation Type R alongside HCPI’s thanksgiving dinner. Allocations for the new model however are extremely limited.

Designated as the FL5, the new Type R features an all-new chassis that is in line with the eleventh-generation Civic that comes in either a 4-door sedan or a 5-door hatchback in other countries. Honda designated the model code FL5 for the new Civic Type R. Chassis codes aside, the front and rear suspension features fully independent units all around, but with one key difference that sets apart this high-performance model from regular consumer variants. The front suspension features Honda's highly engineered dual-axis strut front suspension that can only be found on the Type R. The rear features a multi-link suspension that has a higher spring rate than normal models in the lineup. An active damper system also works in tandem with the multiple driving modes on offer for the model. Honda has also outfitted this model with cross-drilled Brembo brakes for the front wheels. The vehicle rolls on a set of 19-inch alloy wheels that allow the driver for more steering feel and stiffness.

The engine in the Civic Type R is the K20C1 motor from the Honda stable. It's a DOHC turbocharged motor that produces 315 hp with 400 Nm of torque. The engine layout of the Type R is transversely-mounted and delivers power to the front wheels.

The cockpit of the Honda Civic Type R is redesigned to be more modern and simple. The infotainment system sits on the top of the dashboard, aside from entertainment functions, the screen is also equipped with Honda’s LogR data logger. The head unit is equipped with Honda’s LogR data system. The data logger allows drivers to view information about the car in real-time, it also informs the driver of his performance if ever they go on track.

The gauge cluster is all-digital and can showcase different information with regards to performance such as boost, and even a shift indicator to help wring out the turbocharged motor to its full potential. 

Other technology features in the Type R include Dual Zone automatic climate control, keyless entry with push start, rear parking sensors, a backup camera, brake hold, cruise control, and several drive modes to select that influence the driving characteristics for the ride and handling of the vehicle.

The exterior of the Honda Civic Type R is much more mature and subtle in comparison to the previous model, you can still tell it apart from the normal Civic but its design is not as loud as before. The new Type R features a sleek, body-colored bumper with functional air vents that aid in cooling the engine. Compared to the standard Civic, the Type R sits lower and has a wider stance. 

Brake ducts also can be found on the side of the bumper and help cool the large cross-drilled Brembo brakes. It features a widened stance made possible by the 19-inch wheels and wider front fenders that add some nice bulk to the model. Also included is the black front lip found in the front that matches the black side skirts of the Type R.

The side profile of the Civic Type R is different from its sedan counterpart, mainly because of its hatchback design. It does not feature a trunk, but it has a liftgate that follows the fastback shape that Honda wants for its vehicles. The rear is also filled with many bits of bodywork that are not just for show. The Civic gets a big spoiler at the back for more downforce but unlike before, the 6th generation uses shorter metal struts unlike the large vertical end plates on the old Type R . Below the wing are taillights that are unique to the Type R which connected in the middle forming an unobstructed beam. Underneath sits the tri-tip exhaust, which is surrounded by the rear diffuser, cues taken from the previous model.

The interior of the Type R is streamlined and modern. The red semi-bucket seats feature extra bolstering and support for when drivers feel the need to fling this vehicle hard into corners. The seatbelts also receive a splash of color which is also in red, and the color has been carried onto the floor mats, in order to keep with the theme. The wheel has the iconic red ‘H’ emblem identifying it as a Type R Civic, the wheel is thick, with red stitching on the inside to contrast the black leather upholstery. Like the previous generation, the shift knob is made of milled aluminum.

The seating is ample and is not that different from a normal Honda Civic. Space is adequate for 5 passengers, and cargo is also on the larger side, meaning no compromise is really made for practicality. Generous amounts of storage may also be found throughout the cabin, with the center console capable of housing a large volume of miscellaneous items.