2023 Civic Type R | Overview

A global high-performance icon revered by driving enthusiasts around the world, Type R is the pinnacle of Honda factory performance and the all-new 2023 Honda Civic Type R continues that legacy. The most powerful model in Type R's 30-year history, the 2023 Civic Type R has been engineered to deliver thrilling performance and the most rewarding driving experience in the hot hatch segment – both on road and on the racetrack.

Based on the all-new 11th generation Civic Hatchback, the 2023 Civic Type R embodies Honda's challenging spirit, leveraging its deep roots in competition with racetrack-proven engineering that maximizes performance without sacrificing Type R's civilized road manners.

An even more powerful version of Honda's award-winning turbocharged 2.0-liter (K20C1) engine produces 315 hp (SAE net @ 6,500 rpm), making the new Civic Type R the most powerful Honda-branded vehicle ever offered in the U.S. Horsepower, torque and response are improved by a new turbocharger, increased air intake flow rate and a new, more efficient exhaust system. Enhanced cooling ensures sustained, optimal performance during extreme driving.

Type R's smooth and precise six-speed manual transmission is improved for an even more intimate and rewarding connection with the driver. A lighter flywheel and a revised rev-match system delivers perfect rev-matching when shifting down through the gears to help maintain stability on corner entry.

A significantly more rigid body structure supports both improved dynamics and refinement. Civic Type R's scalpel-sharp responses and famously addictive driving feel are increased even further by enhanced suspension and steering performance. The upgraded Brembo braking system gives the driver a rock-solid sense of control and stability. Four driving modes, including a new Individual mode, enable drivers to truly customize the driving experience.

The new Civic Type R combines its class-leading, track-ready performance with a sleeker, more sophisticated look which beautifully integrates advanced aerodynamics for a powerful low and wide form. Its muscular exterior is more aerodynamically efficient, generating significantly more downforce to improve high speed stability.    

Type R is longer, lower and wider with brawny fenders flared out over wider tracks and lightweight 19-inch matte black alloy wheels wrapped in wider bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. A new more aggressive front bumper design features a sporty honeycomb grille mesh that echoes the intricate honeycomb trim inside the cabin. Its more aggressive stance is accentuated by wider rear doors exclusive to Type R and a reshaped rear bumper that reveals its updated signature three round exhaust outlets. A redesigned rear spoiler with aluminum stanchions and a new rear diffuser increase downforce and reduce drag.

The immersive cockpit of the new Type R enhances the exhilaration of driving with emotive, performance-focused details and features including Type R's iconic red seats, aluminum shift knob, and a serialized Type R plate on the dash. The instrument panel features a metal honeycomb panel, a high-quality styling detail that serves both form and function by also concealing the air vents.

Technology also has been smartly integrated into Type R's cabin. Standard features include a 10.2-inch digital instrument display, a larger HD 9-inch Color Touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and a Bose Centerpoint premium sound system.

Changes to the exterior and interior maximize driver performance and engagement. Thinner pillars, outer mirrors relocated to the doors, and a lower hood provide greatly improved visibility. Blind spots have been minimized and reflective elements reduced. New lightweight, heavily bolstered front sports seats with suede-effect upholstery offer exceptional support and comfort on the track and during long drives, helping drivers sharpen their concentration levels.

A redesigned digital gauge cluster includes a new +R driving mode exclusive meter design that allows the driver to obtain necessary information instantly. Engine rpm and gear position are placed at the top along with a racing-inspired, illuminated rev indicator.

Honda's powerful and improved LogR® data logger provides real-time information on the mechanical movements of the vehicle and vehicle behavior resulting from driver input. Other key features include a stopwatch to record lap times and the ability to share driving videos, lap times and other data with other Type R owners.

Civic Type R includes all the safety updates made to the 11th generation Civic Hatchback, including the Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver assistive technologies, improved with a new single-camera system. In fact, the new Type R boasts best-ever safety features and performance, with multiple new airbag designs that debuted on the 11th generation Civic Sedan, including a driver's airbag specifically designed to reduce head rotation in a collision, especially an oblique collision.

Civic Type R is celebrated around the world as a symbol of extreme performance and desirability with six different generations since the first variant debuted in Japan as a 1997 model. Only the second Civic Type R model ever sold in the United States, the all-new 2023 Civic Type R set a new production-car front-wheel drive track record at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, home to the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, securing its legacy as the best performing Civic Type R ever.

2023 Civic Type R | Powertrain

Key Powertrain Features

• Most powerful Civic Type R model ever – 315 hp
• New turbocharger, intake and exhaust increase power
• Improved engine cooling for sustained performance during extreme driving
• Improved 6-speed manual transmission with standard rev-matching system
• Lighter flywheel for quicker response
• Limited-slip differential maximizes available traction
• New Individual drive mode for a customized experience

Most Powerful Type R Ever
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R is the most powerful Type R ever. Under its new vented aluminum hood is an updated and refined version of Honda's award-winning turbocharged 2.0-liter K20C engine developing 315 horsepower (SAE net @ 6,500 rpm) and 310 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 2,600 to 4,000 rpm) – improvements of 9 hp and 15 lb.-ft.

The high-revving VTEC Turbo engine features direct injection, an electrical waste-gate and a low-inertia high-flow mono scroll turbocharger creating 25.2 psi of maximum boost.

Horsepower, torque and response are improved by a redesigned turbocharger, a 10-percent increase in intake air flow rate and new more efficient exhaust system. To improve efficiency, the size, shape and number of turbine blades have been optimized along with the flow path of the intake charge. The compressor blade size, shape and number have been optimized as well. These changes enable the turbocharger to generate pressure in a wider range of engine speeds and maximizes torque output in the mid-rpm range for greater response and drivability.

The Civic Type R features a new specially-designed high-flow exhaust system with a straight-through design and an active exhaust valve that increase exhaust flow by 13 percent. The system also features a new twist on Type R's signature three round exhaust outlets centered in the rear of the car: The larger center outlet is now a key factor in the sound of the exhaust note inside Type R. The system is engineered to offer a stirring exhaust note under acceleration, coupled with quiet cruising at low power settings.

Cylinder Block and Crankshaft
The Civic Type R's 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine has a lightweight die-cast aluminum block with reinforced main bearing caps to minimize weight. Centrifugally cast-iron cylinder sleeves provide long-lasting durability.

To optimize responsiveness, a specially developed, super lightweight, forged-steel crankshaft is exclusive to the Civic Type R. Each journal on the crankshaft is micropolished to reduce operating friction.

Pistons and Connecting Rods 
The 2.0-liter engine has a 9.8:1 compression ratio and pistons with cavity-shaped crowns that help maintain stable combustion and contribute to improved efficiency. The lightweight pistons also have a carefully optimized skirt design to minimize reciprocating weight, which reduces vibration and increases operating efficiency.

The pistons are cooled by oil jets directed at the underside of each piston crown and feature an internal cooling gallery that is designed to reduce the temperature in the piston ring area. Ion-plated piston rings help reduce friction for greater operating efficiency. Special, super lightweight, high-strength steel connecting rods are heat-forged in one piece and then “crack separated” to create a lighter and stronger rod with an optimally fitted bearing cap.

Cylinder Head and i-VTEC® Valvetrain
The direct-injected, 4-cylinder turbocharged VTEC Turbo engine in the Civic Type R has a lightweight pressure-cast aluminum alloy double overhead cam (DOHC) cylinder head. With exhaust ports cast directly into the cylinder head, the need for a traditional separate exhaust manifold is eliminated, reducing engine weight and simplifying the assembly. The manifold is liquid cooled to help keep heat in check, reduce emissions, increase fuel efficiency and power.

A low-friction, silent chain drives dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. The cam drive is maintenance free for the life of the engine. To further reduce weight, thin-wall hollow camshafts are used.

To benefit fuel efficiency, emissions and power, the exhaust valves are sodium-filled for enhanced cooling. Since the valve is internally cooled, it doesn't need the enriched fuel mixture that is generally used in turbo engines to help cool exhaust valves. The resultant leaner mixture reduces emissions, increases fuel efficiency and increases power.

The DOHC 16-valve Civic Type R engine uses an advanced valve control system to combine high power output with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Known as
i-VTEC®, the system combines intake and exhaust VTC (Variable Valve Timing Control), which continuously adjusts the intake and exhaust camshaft phase with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) for the exhaust valves which changes their lift, timing and opening duration.

The “i” (for intelligent) portion of the system is its ability to continuously vary the timing of the intake and exhaust camshafts using variable valve timing control (VTC). This helps increase power and also provides a smoother idle (allowing idle speed to be reduced). The cam timing is varied based on input from sensors that monitor rpm, timing, throttle opening, cam position and exhaust air-fuel ratio, resulting in increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

The cylinder head includes small M12 sparkplugs, down from the more common M14, primarily to improve combustion chamber cooling. The head also includes direct-injection multi-hole fuel injectors with a small-diameter bore. Higher-pressure direct injection optimizes fuel atomization, allowing for more efficient combustion. To provide a high-tumble intake charge that further enhances combustion efficiency, both the intake port and piston crown have special designs.

Improved Engine Cooling
A number of new measures work to improve engine cooling, including a 48-percent larger grille opening, and a larger radiator and new large-diameter fan, helping sustain on-track performance.

A large low-restriction intercooler is positioned low in the front of Type R where it receives unobstructed airflow when the vehicle is in motion. Intake air travels from the air filter to the turbo compressor, on to the intercooler, then to the engine's intake ports. The intercooler helps reduce the temperature of air entering the engine, making it denser for greater performance. To reduce weight, the turbo system is plumbed with rigid, lightweight resin composite inlet pipe to carry intake air to the intercooler.

Friction Reducing Technology 
A range of friction-reducing technologies are included in the new Civic Type R engine to improve efficiency:

• The outer skirts of the lightweight aluminum pistons feature a low-friction molybdenum coating applied in a dot pattern 
• Plateau honing of the cylinder walls removes microscopic high points to further reduce friction while improving the long-term wear characteristics of the engine.
• Other contributors to overall operating efficiency include:
• A special 2-stage oil pump relief valve
• Low-friction oil seals
• Special low-drag piston ring design
• low-friction cam chain
• A lightweight crankshaft 
• Low viscosity oil (0W-20)  

More Engaging Six-Speed Manual
To satisfy hardcore enthusiast drivers, every Civic Type R features a quick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission (6MT) with an automatic rev-matching system. Improved for the new Type R with a lighter flywheel and a revised rev-match system, the smooth and precise transmission delivers quicker rev-matched downshifts for an even more intimate and rewarding connection with the driver.

Topped with a solid aluminum shift knob, the 6-speed transmission has been engineered to deliver crisply-defined shift action with very low internal friction, tight internal tolerances and smooth synchronizers. A new lighter single-mass flywheel is used to sharpen engine response by minimizing rotational inertia. To keep temperature in check, the transmission incorporates a cooling fin case design, along with a liquid-cooled oil cooler.

Compared to 6-speed used in other Civic models, the Type R's transmission has a more rigid exterior case, high-strength bearing system, high-strength gears, and greater torque capacity. A constant-mesh helical reverse gear mechanism reduces noise when reverse is selected.

Automatic Rev Matching
The Civic Type R features standard automatic rev matching to optimally match engine rpm during upshifts and downshifts. When this selectable feature is enabled, the Drive-by-Wire throttle system automatically adjusts the engine rpm during gear changes to match the next gear the driver selects. Automatic rev matching makes the Type R more enjoyable to drive by minimizing driveline shock during shifts.

The automatic rev matching has two operational profiles: Comfort and Sport. In Comfort, the rev match system uses a seamless profile, designed to give the Type R a smooth, comfortable shift feel.  In Sport and +R modes, the system switches to a more aggressive, quick-revving profile designed to complement the faster paced shifting of performance driving. If the driver prefers not to use the rev match system, it can be disabled using the Type R's customizable settings menu.

Helical Limited-Slip Differential
The Civic Type R's helical-type limited-slip differential (LSD) helps minimize wheel spin, putting more of the engine's power effectively to the pavement. Under power, the limited-slip differential works to equalize the speed of the two drive wheels. The system never locks the speed of the two drive wheels together as would a locking differential, but instead allows different wheel speeds to accommodate the longer distance the outer wheel must travel when cornering.

The LSD enables the Type R to accelerate harder on surfaces with uneven traction, to reduce wheel spin when exiting corners, and to enhance the vehicle's responsiveness to throttle inputs in corners. The term "helical" describes the way the differential's gear teeth are cut – which is at an angle to the gear's shaft. Helical gears are quieter in operation and can transmit greater torque than straight-cut (or spur) gears.

Fuel Economy (MPG) Ratings

Trim	City / Highway / Combined1
Type R	22/ 28 / 24

2023 Civic Type R | Body and Chassis

Key Body and Chassis Features

• Significantly stiffer body structure improves dynamics and refinement
• 1.4-inch longer wheelbase
• 1-inch wider front track and 0.75-inch wider rear track
• Retuned suspension improves handling capabilities and ride quality and
• Newly-designed lightweight 19-inch wheels and wider high-performance summer tires
• Improved braking performance and stability
• Expanded drive mode availability for customized driving dynamics

Enhanced Architecture
The new Civic Type R is based on the 11th-generation Civic Hatchback using Honda's enhanced global architecture. The wheelbase has been extended 1.4-inches for a smoother ride. Now measuring 107.7 inches, it's the longest wheelbase in its class. The front and rear tracks are also significantly wider (+1.0 inches in the front and +0.75 inches in the rear). Together, these changes contribute to improved straight-line driving and steering stability.

Stronger Body 
The new Civic Type R features a stronger body with an 15-percent increase in rear torsional rigidity. This rigid, but lightweight structure further improves Type R's track-ready, yet street-civilized driving character by facilitating lower overall noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and enhancing its extraordinary dynamic capabilities. 

Expanded use of high-strength steel increases stiffness and reduces weight, and circular “frames” around the engine compartment strut towers and behind the rear seats stiffen these sections, improving the balance of front-rear rigidity, improving steering feel and precision. Floor strength is also improved with lattice frame members and by joining the front and rear ends of the center tunnel to the dashboard lower and rear crossmember.

The new Civic Type R uses 3.8 times more structural adhesive than the previous generation model. Applying the adhesives where spot welds are performed combines the strength of the weld and the broader surface area of the adhesive. This increases the stiffness of the joint.

Additional measures were taken to minimize weight gain, including a new lightweight resin hatch and a resin front bulkhead, and continued use of an aluminum hood—netting an improved the power-to-weight ratio.

Sharper Handling
Already the benchmark in ride, handling and steering performance, engineers have further improved Civic Type R's chassis after extensive development in Japan, and rigorous testing at racetracks in Japan, North America and Europe.  This includes Germany's infamous Nurburgring, the world's most challenging racetrack, and Honda's own Suzuka circuit in Japan. As a result, it's now more responsive, more comfortable and more thrilling-to-drive than ever before.

The dual-axis strut front suspension was designed especially for the Type R. It features aluminum knuckles, strut forks and lower arms, and has special geometry optimized for sport handling that includes more initial negative camber for crisper turn-in, and more caster, which adds stability.

The dual axis system also greatly reduces torque steer, primarily through a 0.75-inch reduction in steering axis offset, even though the front track is 3.5-inches wider than that of the Hatchback. The lower suspension arms are aluminum, and the Type R uses a 29.0 mm tubular stabilizer bar. The front spring rates are twice as stiff as those of the Civic Hatchback and the large diameter lightweight hollow stabilizer bar is 1.7-times stiffer.

Specially tuned for the Type R, the multi-link rear suspension provides nimble handling in city driving, precise response for sport driving, and the ultimate in track performance in the +R drive mode. Mounted on a rigid subframe, the system incorporates stamped-steel control arms, aluminum hub carriers and a 20.5 mm solid stabilizer bar, which helps provide crisp turn-in along with body roll control.

Compared to the Civic Hatchback, unique rear suspension tuning for the new Civic Type R includes a 1.6-times higher spring rate and a 2.4-times higher stabilizer bar rate. In addition, the Type R rear control arms are supremely rigid, the rear track is 0.75-inches wider than the previous Type R, and more negative wheel camber is utilized – all to increase handling response, cornering agility and overall stability.

The specially tuned Adaptive Damper System helps the Type R excel on the street and track by allowing different, optimized damping curves that adjust automatically to suit driving conditions, based on steering input, lateral G and suspension stroke. The retuned system, along with updates to suspension geometry and hardware, improves handling and ride comfort over rough surfaces. This includes:

• Comfort – A civilized balance of ride & handling for everyday driving conditions.
• Sport – Default mode provides firmer damper settings that flatten and stabilize the vehicle body during rapid steering inputs and maneuvers, which noticeably improves tactile feel, handling precision and overall responsiveness.
• +R – Transforms the Civic Type R from balanced and a comfortable daily driver into a track-optimized performance machine. In +R, the driver can additionally choose to switch off VSA and traction control.

Handling is also improved by wider tires and wheels. A new lightweight 19-inch wheel is 0.5-inches wider and features a “reverse” rim design that gives the appearance of a larger diameter rim while reducing wheel distortion under lateral load and stabilizing the inner portion of the tire contact patch. The new wheels are wrapped in stickier 265/30 R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires that are 20 mm wider and specially developed for the new Type R.

For those looking to take their Type R on the track, a bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tire is available to order through Honda dealers.

Improved Dual Pinion Variable Ratio Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPS)
An upgraded Electric Power Steering (EPS) system with a stiffer torsion bar and improved software control resolution enhances steering feel and controllability. As before, the system incorporates dual pinion gears and a variable gear ratio for exceptional steering feel and handling performance. Compared to a traditional single-pinion steering system, the dual pinion EPS utilizes the physical steering input from the driver, assisted by a supplemental electric motor. A non-contact torque sensor measures the driver's steering effort and an ECU determines how much electric motor assist to add, with the result being seamless, natural feeling steering in all situations.

Uniquely tuned for the Civic Type R, the steering ratio is variable over a 17-percent range, with a final full off-center ratio of 11.6:1 and an on-center ratio of 14.9:1. This provides a quick 2.11 turns lock-to-lock, which minimizes hand movement and steering effort when turning, parking or maneuvering. High steering-mount stiffness and a 30 mm steering column diameter enhance steering precision and feel.

Like the Civic Si, the Civic Type R has a larger electric motor and unique EPS tuning in comparison to other Civic models. In Comfort mode, the Civic Type R's EPS delivers a smooth, natural turning and handling response. This transforms into a noticeably more direct and linear feel when the driving mode is set to Sport, and to a highly direct and fully racetrack-ready steering feel in +R mode.

Better Braking Performance
For exceptional braking performance, brake booster characteristics have been re-tuned to improve feel and controllability, while the big but lightweight two-piece front rotors receive improved cooling. The large front rotors measure 13.8-inch in diameter and are clamped by brawny Brembo four-piston aluminum calipers. The rear rotors have a 12.0-inch diameter.

Increased airflow through the front bumper, as well as functional front air ducts and the new split-5-spoke wheel design, improve brake cooling performance by routing more air to the rotors. This additional cooling helps sustain brake performance longer during high-performance driving.

Expanded Drive Modes
With four available drive modes, the 2023 Civic Type R is more customizable than ever before. The choice between Comfort, Sport, +R, and a new Individual mode allow the driver to customize engine response, steering assist, suspension damping, engine sound, rev-match speed, and the design of the gauge cluster.

• Comfort
  A more relaxed mode for the highest levels of comfort. Reduced throttle sensitivity, maximum amount of steering assist, and a decreased suspension damping for smoother ride

• Sport
  Designed for high-performance driving. Sport sharpens the throttle response. Suspension damping is increased for improved handling. Steering assist is decreased for better feel.

• +R
  For maximum performance, +R mode further increases throttle sensitivity, quickens rev-match speeds and reduces steering assist. It also features a dedicated gauge cluster layout and enhanced engine sound.

• Individual
  Allows for the selection of individual settings including engine responsiveness, suspension, gauges, and steering assist.

2023 Civic Type R | Exterior Design

Key Exterior Design Features

• Sleeker, more sophisticated exterior styling with advanced aerodynamics
• Longer, lower and wider exterior with a more muscular, aggressive stance
• New front and rear bumper design present a clean, highly functional look
• Powerful flared fenders fuse aerodynamic performance and beauty
• Slim, wide-set LED headlights and taillights emphasize stability

High Performance Exterior Design
Designed in Japan, Type R's new more muscular exterior is sleek and sophisticated with beautifully integrated advanced aerodynamics for a powerful, low, and wide form. Type R is 0.8-inches longer, 0.5-inches lower and 0.6-inches wider with brawny fenders flared out over wider tracks.

Each body panel forward of the A-pillars is unique to Type R. A new front bumper design houses wide-set headlights and a sporty honeycomb grille mesh that echoes the intricate honeycomb trim inside the cabin. The vented aluminum hood has been lowered by an inch where it meets the A-pillars to create a “thin” profile, while the dynamic character-line that runs the length of the car emphasizes Type R's longer length. An upswept lower character line that begins right behind the front wheel, sweeps gradually upward toward the rear, adding a sense of motion.

Its more aggressive stance is accentuated by wider rear doors and fenders exclusive to Type R and an upswept and aerodynamically beneficial trailing edge on the trunk lid. A reshaped rear bumper with thin, wide-set LED taillights reveals Type R's signature three round exhaust outlets and a new rear diffuser.

Positioned lower on the body than the previous Type R to emphasize the sleek and lower proportions, a new rear spoiler with aluminum stanchions has been carefully designed not to block the driver's rear view. Also, hemmed wheel arches allow the wheels to be situated nearly flush with the fender without interfering with the body work when the suspension is compressed.

Advanced Aerodynamic Performance
Designed with input from aerodynamic development members of the HRC Sakura Super GT race team, Type R's muscular exterior is also more aerodynamically efficient, generating significantly more downforce, improving high speed stability.

Beautifully integrated advanced aerodynamics achieve well-balanced downforce in both the front and rear, as well as a reduction of drag. Up front, a new bumper reduces side wake, while functional front fender air outlets and a side sill garnish reduce pressure inside the wheel wells, enhancing efficiency and contributing to a lower overall coefficient of drag.

Integrating the wider rear doors and fenders helps guide air around the rear wheels without fluctuations in pressure. A redesigned rear spoiler with aluminum diecast upright supports and a new rear diffuser intensify downforce and reduce drag.

Exterior Design Details
Like the Civic Hatchback, the bottom of the Type R's windshield A-pillars have been pulled rearward by 1.96 inches to improve visibility, elongate the hood, and visually connect the pillars to the front wheel hub, creating a sense of stability. Additionally, the outside mirrors are now mounted on the door, rather than at the base of the A-pillar itself, improving outward visibility.

A large, glassy greenhouse delivers a feeling of space and an expansive outward view. Positioned directly above the hip point of the rear seat, the trailing edge of the rear side glass is 1.2 inches lower, creating an airy feeling for rear seat occupants and further accentuating Type R's horizontally-oriented styling.

Only the Civic Type R wears unique red and chrome Honda badges and Type R badges are found on the grille and tailgate.

• LED headlights are standard.
• The front grille and air intakes, exterior mirrors, window trim and rear diffuser and spoiler are gloss black, expressing the functional beauty of the high-performance design.
• New matte black 5-spoke 19-inch wheels feature black lug nuts, a first on Type R.

Laser brazing technology eliminates the need for roof molding for a smooth and clean roof line. Additionally, a new lightweight resin hatch allows the hinges to be moved down and to the side for a smooth and clean coupe-like profile.

The Civic Type R's door handles have been redesigned for a cleaner look. A touchpad has replaced the locking button seen on the previous generation, and the keyhole has been cleverly hidden behind the handle itself.

Exterior Colors
The 2023 Civic Type R will be available in five colors. This includes the return of the iconic racing-heritage color, Championship White, along with Rallye Red and Crystal Black Pearl, along with Boost Blue and Sonic Gray Pearl.  

2023 Civic Type R | Interior Design and Package

Key Interior Design Features Immersive high-performance cockpit experience

• Traditional Type R touches include high-contrast red seats and carpet
• All-new racing-inspired seats
• Unique serial number plate dash-mounted on each Type R
• High quality switchgear and weighted aluminum shift knob
• Open and airy greenhouse for exceptional outward visibility
• Improved comfort with 1.4 inches more rear seat legroom
• Wide hatch opening for loading larger cargo items

An Immersive Interior Experience
Designed to support intense driving experiences, the immersive cockpit of the new Type R enhances the exhilaration of driving with emotive, performance-focused details.

Interior ergonomics were developed along two core principles: “instantaneous recognition” and “intuitive operation,” which combines easy to understand information with natural-feeling controls. To this end, the new Type R places meters and the center display on the upper part of the instrument panel, allowing the driver to gain useful driving information with limited eye movement. All secondary controls are positioned in the driver's natural functional flow, allowing intuitive operation with minimal movement.

A new center console features deep and wide cupholders arranged behind its centrally located short-throw shifter and drive mode buttons. The drive mode and parking brake buttons are positioned to the left of the shifter and its center console bin is located behind the cupholders. In front of the shifter is a wireless charging pad. The USB ports in the front of the console is lit to make it easier to find at night.

Exclusive interior design features include Type R's iconic red front seats (redesigned), red carpet and trim, aluminum shift knob, and a serialized Type R plate on the dash. Type R's new racing-inspired front seats also feature "Type R" logos in the headrests to further set them apart. 

New Racing-Inspired Front Seats
Type R features all-new and driver-focused body-stabilizing sport seats with built in head restraints and more prominent shoulder and lower thigh side-supports. The new racing-inspired seats with new internal structures provide improved support across the entire body, enhancing holding power for sport driving and ride comfort on long drives.

The seat structure is optimized to reduce the overall weight of the seats by about 7 percent. An inner frame on the seat bottom stabilizes the hip to reduce movement and posture changes regardless of the various G forces the user may experience while driving. The seat also centers the upper body over the pelvis, helping to stabilize the upper arms and the eyesight of the driver, optimizing the driving position.

High-friction suede-like upholstery reduces body slippage in high-G driving situations, while increased breathability in high-contact areas decreases fatigue. Sculpted seat back covers reduce weight and are embossed with the Type R logo.

High Quality Trim
Type R's instrument panel features a metal honeycomb panel finished in gunmetal metallic, a high-quality styling detail that serves both form and function by also concealing the air vents. Every Type R has its own special serial number etched into a special number plate positioned on the honeycomb trim that highlights the Type R exclusivity. A weighted aluminum shifter and aluminum center console trim add to the cabin's high-performance experience.

The form and function of switches and other fixtures were carefully designed to be most suitable for each task, be it a twist, push or pull, with special attention to the feel and amount of spring force in controls. Such careful attention to detail included consistency between surface treatments, even on decorative parts, with the goal of creating an environment comparable to high-end tech devices.

Panoramic Visibility
The feeling of spaciousness is experienced immediately and shared by all occupants thanks to the low, flat beltline and uncluttered cabin design. The pulled-back A-pillars, low hood, flat dashboard and hidden windshield wipers result in a windshield with clearly defined corners for a panoramic view. This results in an increase of three degrees in the horizontal viewing angle (to 87 degrees) from the previous Type R.

Like Civic Sedan, Hatchback and Si, the outside mirrors are mounted on the doors aft of the base of the A-pillar, creating a space and sightline between the front pillar and side view mirror for improved peripheral visibility. The front side windowsills are essentially in line with the bottom of the windshield, contributing to the continuous, panoramic view.

In addition to featuring a square-shaped front glass, the flat instrumental panel was developed using computer aided design (CAD) and clay modeling to reduce the potential for visual noise in the form of windshield reflections from joints and seams. Additionally, the low cowl is the same height as the door windowsills for an uninterrupted and harmonious flow that extends from the dash all the way to the rear doors. Visibility to the rear is also improved, with new quarter glass behind the rear door windows.

Taken together, the enhanced visibility afforded by the exterior structure and interior design make it easier for the driver to understand the vehicle's position relative to its surroundings, whether traveling in a straight line or when cornering.

Outstanding Packaging and Versatility
Honda's interior packaging design efforts result in ample head, leg, shoulder and hip room for all passengers, with volume increased by 1.8 cu.-ft. for a maximum total of 99 cu.-ft. of passenger space.

The extended wheelbase adds 1.4 inches of rear-seat legroom. The generous interior headroom of the previous generation Type R has been maintained even though the vehicle height is now lower overall.

For all of its performance capability, the Civic Type R offers remarkable utility, with generous cargo capacity of 24.5 cu. ft. (with rear seats up) – spacious enough to easily accommodate several large bags. A low lift over height and the large hatch opening help make loading of bulky times easy. The standard split-folding 60/40 rear seatbacks allow an expansive max cargo area when folded flat.

2023 Civic Type R | HMI and Technology

Key HMI and Technology Features

• New 10.2-inch all-digital LCD instrument display
• Enhanced Honda LogR® Performance Datalogger
• Standard 9-inch Color Touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ compatibility
• New navigation system with smartphone integration
• Type R-first Bose premium sound system  
• New Qi-compatible wireless charging

Driver Focused Technology
To support performance driving, Type R's new digital instrumentation display features clean, easy-to-read graphics and an extensive selection of displays. The design features a large tachometer and gear-position display, plus a multi-information display. The system can display throttle and brake application in a graphic percentage format and turbocharger boost in pounds per square inch (psi). A graphical g-meter provides a representation of acceleration, braking and cornering forces. 

A new +R driving mode-exclusive meter design allows the driver to obtain necessary information instantly, with the engine rpm, and gear position placed at the top. A racing-inspired illuminated rev indicator located above the gauge cluster gives the driver an easy-to-read indication of engine rpm during performance driving.

Honda LogR® Performance Datalogger
Exclusive to Type R, a new enhanced version of the Honda LogR® Performance Dataogger combines the Type R's onboard computer and sensors with a new built-in vehicle app to help drivers monitor and record a variety of performance parameters in real time when driving on the road, on track and other closed courses, helping to improve driving skills.

Honda LogR® no longer requires a smartphone app, so drivers can use the on-board system or connect to their smartphone for data sharing. Key features include a stopwatch to record lap times, a tire friction circle 3D motion indicator that displays the tire force the vehicle achieves and an innovative scoring function that helps drivers improve their skills on the track. Users can also share their lap times and other data with other Type R owners.

Honda LogR® features three main functions: a Performance Monitor, a Data Log mode, and Auto Score mode. The Performance Monitor provides vehicle information to the driver on the Display Audio screen while the app is functioning. Log Mode records lap times on the track, helping drivers monitor improvements in their driving skills. The Auto Score function encourages smooth driving by monitoring the “go, stop, turn” functions (acceleration, braking and steering), and generating a score based on the smoothness algorithm.

While driving, all interaction with Honda LogR® occurs through the 9-inch Color Touchscreen, while Log Mode and Auto Score both offer more in-depth analysis after driving, including previous drives, performance traces and replays using maps, and detailed vehicle information.

When connected and using the app, the 9-inch Color Touchscreen on the Type R shows a Performance Monitor, which allows the driver to keep track of vehicle systems in real-time. These include:

• Coolant temperature
• Engine oil temperature
• Engine oil pressure
• Intake air temperature
• Atmospheric pressure
• Accelerator opening angle
• Steering angle
• Yaw rate
• Brake pressure
• Gear position
• Clutch pedal operation
• Turbo boost pressure

Additionally, drivers can switch between two different views:

1. G-Meter view indicates acceleration, braking, and cornering G forces on a “bowl” graph.
2. 3-D view provides a graphical representation of the car's behavior, using a bird's eye view from above and behind the car, showing its approximate pitch, roll and yaw, similar to what one might see in a high-end racing video game.

The Performance Monitor also shows the Type R's current drive mode (Comfort, Sport or +R).

Intuitive Technology with a Larger Touchscreen
Technology has been smartly integrated into the Civic Type R's new cabin with a focus on the driver, including a new digital instrument display and a new 9-inch Color Touchscreen – the largest touchscreen ever in a Type R – with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Qi-compatible wireless charging is also standard.

The touchscreen is placed nearly 4 inches higher on the dash for better visibility and ease of use. The audio system is designed with an eye toward simplicity of operation with additional hard buttons, including a volume knob, and a simplified menu structure.

The physical buttons on the audio system are large and easy to use, and the system uses a fast processor for quick response with virtually no lag after inputs. To make it easier to use the switches and touchscreen when the vehicle is in motion, the screen is recessed slightly from the edge of the dash, resulting in a 0.8-inch finger rest that allows the user to steady their hand while making selections.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the 9-inch system features user-defined shortcuts at the bottom of the screen, with Type R offering six easily programmable shortcuts. Making phone calls with a Bluetooth® connected phone is easier through both a reduced number of layers and screen layout. The system also features Wi-Fi hotspot capability, activated through a subscription.

It also uses Smart Shortcuts, an automatic assistant function that enables the user to execute frequently used actions quicker and with fewer steps. The system uses machine learning to predict and propose user preferences based on the track record of the user's actions and behaviors.

By pressing the icon on the home screen, the system displays frequently used commands, such as the "home" address, frequently visited places, a list of favorite radio programs, redials for received calls, or calling a person on the "favorite" list. For example, with one action, the system can call up the names of people the user calls frequently, eliminating the need to use a directory. These shortcuts are stored on the Smart Shortcut menu, and a unique profile is created for each respective user.

Bose Premium Sound
A Bose Centerpoint premium sound system is standard on the new Type R. The new system was custom-engineered precisely for the interior of the 11th Generation Civic so drivers and passengers – regardless of their seating position – are placed in the middle of the music, with a clear listening experience for all audio content.

Bose audio engineers developed the sound system with advanced components and technologies, working closely with Honda to integrate the system into the interior design for optimal performance. Clear, impactful sound is delivered through high-performance Bose speakers, strategically placed throughout the interior for exceptional music reproduction across all frequencies, low to high.

Helping to preserve the quality of the listening experience, Dynamic Speed Compensation technology automatically adjusts volume and tone based on vehicle speed, reducing the need for drivers to manually adjust settings while on the road.
Bose Centerpoint System Details:

• A 3.25-inch (80 mm) Bose Twiddler mid/high-range speaker sits in the center of the instrument panel.
• 1-inch (25 mm) lightweight neodymium tweeters are housed in each A-pillar and in each rear door
• 6.5-inch (165 mm) wide-range speakers are located in each of the front doors.
• Two 5.25-inch (130 mm) wide-range speakers are housed in each rear door.
• 3.25-inch (80 mm) Bose Twiddler mid/high-range speakers are located on each side of the rear deck.
• One 8-inch (200 mm) subwoofer is built into the center of the rear deck.
• A Bose digital amplifier with 12 channels of custom equalization and advanced digital signal processing.

2023 Civic Type R | Safety & Driver-Assistive Technology

Key Safety and Driver-Assistive Features

• Next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure optimized for oblique collisions
• The 11th-generation Civic's world-first use of a new driver airbag design, plus a segment-first passenger front airbag, are designed to cradle the head and control rotation; both are standard in the new Civic Type R
• New knee airbags
• New rear seat side-impact airbags
• All-new standard wide-view, single-camera Honda Sensing® system
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) added to Honda Sensing®
• Updated Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
• New blind spot information system (BSI)

Advanced Airbag and Seatbelt Technologies
Reflecting Honda's Safety for Everyone approach, Civic has been a consistent leader in advancing small-car safety performance and the new Civic Type R sets a new standard in its class for both active and passive safety technology, the same long list of new active and passive safety systems as the rest of the 11th-generation Civic lineup.

Safety technology new to the 2023 Civic Type R includes driver and passenger frontal airbags designed to better reduce the likelihood of injuries from severe brain trauma associated with angled frontal collisions.

The Type R uses an all-new driver's airbag specifically designed to reduce head rotation in a collision, especially an oblique collision. Using an innovative donut-shaped structure, the new airbag cradles and holds the head, mitigating rotation and reducing the likelihood of brain injury.

On the passenger side, a new three-chamber airbag design achieves a similar result. The three chambers inflate separately, with the two outer chambers that extend above the main chamber designed to cradle the head and control rotation.

In addition to these two next-generation airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags are used for the first time in Type R, and new rear side impact airbags are standard as well. Also standard are side curtain airbags, and side impact airbags for both driver and front passenger, for a total of 10 airbags.

Seatbelt technology also has been updated, with an outer lap belt pretensioner used on front seatbelts, with a load limiter used on the driver's side to prevent chest injuries. In the rear, pretensioners also are used in both outboard positions, along with load limiters.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure
Honda introduced the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure nearly two decades ago, designed to protect vehicle occupants and improve frontal crash compatibility between vehicles of varying sizes, such as an SUV and a small car, and has been continuously advanced.

The latest version of the ACE™ structure in the new Civic Type R has been updated to meet the future National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) oblique frontal crash test standard. To that end, the front end features a new upper member, pillar structure, side frame and lower firewall structure all designed to route crash energy around the cabin.

This includes improved occupant protection in angled frontal collisions, with a new upper A-pillar structure, side frame and lower firewall structure – all engineered to route crash energy around the cabin. Side impact protection has been improved, with stiffer structures in the roof, side sill and B-pillar, doors, and the rear wheel arch and C-pillar.

Improved Pedestrian Protection
The new Civic Type R has been designed to prevent and mitigate pedestrian injuries through both collision mitigation and collision avoidance. The standard Honda Sensing® suite of driver assistive and safety technologies has been engineered to detect pedestrians, warning the driver or even applying the brakes to help prevent a collision (see below for more details).

Honda has been an industry leader in designing its vehicles to mitigate pedestrian injuries should a collision occur. The new Civic front end includes a redesigned front bumper to prevent or reduce lower leg fractures, and ligament injuries to the knee.

Enhanced Honda Sensing®
The standard Honda Sensing® suite of driver assistive and safety technologies has been thoroughly reengineered for the 2023 Civic Type R. Rather than separate millimeter-wave radar and camera systems, the new system uses a single camera mounted behind the windshield, coupled with an exceptionally fast processor and eight sonar sensors (four in the front and four in the rear).

The new single-camera system features a field of view that is twice as wide (100 degrees vs. 50 degrees) and can see farther down the road. The camera detects feature points of a target and recognizes attributes of objects such as a vehicle or pedestrian. The sonar sensor system detects objects, including other vehicles, located near the front or rear of your vehicle.

With the use of the fast processor, the system measures distance and the lateral position of objects based on the change in the size of the target object, how long it took for the change to occur, and the speed of the vehicle. This enables the camera to recognize white lines, road boundaries such as curbs, other vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists and road signs.

In foul weather, the system parameters have been changed so it will operate even when the windshield wiper is on at mid or high speeds, as long as the camera can detect objects. In addition, a heater was installed to prevent fogging of the windshield in front of the camera in cold weather. The system software has also been programmed to continue providing assistance in foggy weather.

Honda Sensing® functions include:

• New to Type R: Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR): The new camera automatically recognizes traffic speed limit signs, displaying the information on the digital meter immediately after the sign is passed.
• New to Type R: Blind Spot Information System (BSI): A new radar installed on the rear corners of the vehicle detects vehicles approaching from the rear, signaling the driver with a visual and audible warning. It will alert the driver when it comes into a range of approximately 25 meters.
• Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): The new camera system and more advanced software enables the use of CMBS in more situations. If no corrective action is taken when FCW signals an alert, CMBS can apply different levels of braking action to help reduce vehicle speed and eventual collision forces, and therefore to help reduce the severity of a collision.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): The new camera system improves ACC with more natural brake feel and quicker reactions to changes in traffic. It also responds more quickly when changing into an open lane from behind a slower car, and when a slower car moves out of the lane ahead.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS): LKAS reduces the need for steering correction movements and driving effort. LKAS has been improved with more linear and natural feeling steering assist, better line tracing in corners, and improved resistance to crosswinds.
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM): Identifies solid or dashed painted lane lines, Botts' dots and cat's-eye markers to find the edge of the road, and uses steering force to keep the vehicle from departing the lane or roadway altogether.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) integrated with RDM: Operates at speeds from 40 to 90 mph and is designed to alert the driver if the vehicle is leaving a detected lane without the turn signal being activated.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW, integrated with CMBS™): When the system determines a collision is possible with a detected vehicle, visual and audible alerts from the FCW system prompt the driver to take corrective actions.

2023 Civic Type R | Manufacturing

The new Civic Type R is built at the Yorii Plant in Japan. The Type R's K20C engine continues to be built at Honda's Anna Engine Plant in Sidney, Ohio, using domestic and globally-sourced parts.

2023 Honda Civic Type R | Trims and Features

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine

315 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque

High-capacity six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching

Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, including: New: Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) New: Blind Spot Information system (BSI) New: Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) Lane Departure Warning (LDW) integrated with RDM Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

19-inch alloy wheels with 265/30 high-performance summer tires

LED headlights and taillights

Smart entry

Push-button start

10.2-inch digital instrument cluster

9-inch Color Touchscreen HMI system

12-speaker Bose Centerpoint premium sound system

Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility

Qi-compatible wireless phone charging

Bluetooth® phone and streaming audio

Dash-mounted USB port (2.5A)

Four Drive Modes: Comfort, Sport, +R, and a new Individual mode

Advanced front airbags

Front knee airbags

Front side impact airbags

Side curtain airbags

Rear side-impact airbags

Rear seatbelt reminder

Rear seat reminder

 

# # #

1.Based on 2023 EPA mileage ratings; use for comparison purposes only; your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery condition (hybrid grades), and other factors.