Lower (-8 mm) and wider (+90 mm) than the regular Civic, the all-new Civic Type R is built around the concept of “Ultimate Sports 2.0.” The design is purely functional, and with that, has a significantly reduced air resistance and drag co-efficient compared to the previous Civic Type R. Furthermore, designers opted for a uncluttered, “noiseless” design by better integrating elements such as the wider arches. The aluminum hood now has a vent for optimized airflow, while at the back, the new diffuser and spoiler work to increase downforce while suppressing air resistance.

Underneath the hood, the 2023 Civic Type R packs the most powerful VTEC Turbo engine made by Honda. A revised turbocharger, redesigned housing shape, and a straight exhaust system all contribute to stellar outputs: 320 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 420 Nm of torque from 2,200 rpm. This gives it a 0 to 100 km/h time of just 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 275 km/h. The radiator has also been upgraded and the air intake revised to enhance temperature control and air cooling.

The accompanying 6-speed manual has also been updated for improved shifting feel and load. Changes include a new lightweight flywheel (18 percent lighter) make it even more responsive, while the rev-match system with auto blip has been re-programmed to further help the Civic Type R on corner entry.

Using the latest Civic as its basis, the Civic Type R already has excellent levels of performance, responsiveness, and feedback. From there, engineers have upped the torsional rigidity (+15 percent) for cornering stability by increasing the use of structural adhesives through the car. Moreover, its undergone weight optimization with an even lighter aluminum hood and resin tailgate. Other suspension improvements have been done to the steering and even the bespoke 19-inch Michelin tires.

Inside, the 2023 Civic Type R maintains the base Civic’s high level of comfort, practicality, and everyday usability while enhancing the level of drama and sportiness. The driver, for example, is now positioned 8 mm lower thanks to lightweight sport bucket seats. The iconic red trim that has adorned many extreme Hondas in the past is present here from the seats down to the carpets. Plus, like the previous FK8 Civic Type R, a unique serial plate is present (now on the dashboard) to highlight the exclusivity of this model.

Features include an all-digital meter display with a dedicated +R mode, a touchscreen-based infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, and more. And like the regular Civic, the all-new Civic Type R comes with Honda Sensing. Its 100-degree monocular camera provides functionalities such as Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking, Cross Traffic Monitor, Lane Keep Assist, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Automatic High Beam.

The all-new Civic Type R arrives in the Philippines strictly in limited quantities (39 units initially) for P 3.880 million. Available colors are Championship White and Racing Blue Pearl.