The new lap time record: 7 minutes 44.881 seconds was achieved during the Civic Type R’s performance evaluation and further cements the dynamic performance improvements it has compared to its immediate predecessor.

For those with keen memories, it must be noted that the overall time is slower than the previous FK8’s 7 minutes 43.8 seconds. However, beginning in 2019, for the Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time to be counted, it now uses a slightly longer version of the circuit—20.832 kilometers versus 20.6 kilometers. Because it set its record in 2018, the FK8 used the shorter layout.

Going back to the FL5 Civic Type R, the goal is to achieve the “ultimate pure sports performance” by attaining the ultimate in both speed, which is the essential value of a sports model, and driving pleasure, which appeals to the emotion of the driver.

Based on the 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine inherited from the previous-generation Civic Type R, the engine performance was further improved to deliver maximum output of 320 horsepower and maximum torque of 420 Nm. Cooling performance along with heat management and aerodynamic performance were improved through various measures, such as the enlargement of the front grille opening area and the effective opening area of the radiator. Furthermore, by adopting detail-oriented body parts designs both in the front and rear of the vehicle, the downforce was enhanced effectively, which realized stability while driving at the vehicle’s full potential.

For the two-piece disc brake system, inherited from the previous-generation Civic Type R, the master power characteristics were modified to further improve controllability of the brake for the entire speed range, from low speed to high speed. In addition, by increasing the efficiency of air intake toward the brake system, an increase in brake temperature during continuous driving on a closed course was reduced, which realized solid braking effect and fade resistance.

The initial batch of 39 Honda Civic Type R units in the Philippines have all been sold, but Honda Cars Philippines says they are working to bring a second batch into the country soon. Read our First Drive review here.