For starters, the package looks less fussy—freed from the current generation’s gaping vents and crisscrossing lines. That said, it’ll still appeal to hot hatch enthusiasts with its larger front grille that’s joined by what looks to be covered up “intakes” similar to the current Civic Type R. From the shots, it’s also clear that the front fenders protrude more now, matched by the same treatment at the back. Oh, and speaking about the rear, the triple center exhaust has been retained though the center pipe is now bigger diameter than the one on the sides. Also, the large rear wing is now supported by stanchions ala the Porsche 911 GT3.

Honda still hasn’t revealed what will power the all-new Civic Type R due in 2022 (as a 2023 model year offering). However, money is on the 2.0-liter VTEC turbo tweaked to push more than the current 306 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. The likely transmission will still be the 6-speed manual.

As with the previous generation Civic Type R, it’s now headed to the Nürburgring for further tests. This means the launch shouldn’t be that far away.