The next-generation Honda Civic Type R was tested again ahead of its scheduled debut in 2022, revealing new design details for final production.
The rival of the Renault Mégane RS remains strongly camouflaged on these pictures but it is clear that it does not appear radically different from its predecessor on the outside. The general body shape, with its low and wide stance, sedan-style trunk and large rear spoiler is familiar, while a more production-ready rear end sports distinctive triple-tailpipes and tailpipes. Red brake calipers provide another nod to its performance potential.
Close examination reveals that the spoiler has a new raised bracket, while the smaller lip spoiler on the trunk no longer appears to dissect the rear window. Other visible changes include a lower shoulder line, lower bonnet line, and lower headlights, as predicted by the reveal of the standard Civic hatchback last month ahead of its European market launch in 2022.
An interior view shows what different steering wheel and dashboard designs look like, as well as a dash-mounted touchscreen, though it’s hard to draw conclusions from this early prototype.
Autocar understands that the upcoming Civic Type R will receive a hybrid powertrain as part of Honda’s electrification plans, which were accelerated last year with the aim of electrifying all of the brand’s European sales by 2025.
It is also suggested that it will use a powertrain linked in its concept to that of the NSX supercar, which combines a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with three electric motors. It’s not clear if that means four-wheel drive, but it’s likely Honda will go fully hybrid in this way.
Such a development would also give Honda more performance potential, as engineers have already hinted that the current car is close to the realistic limit in terms of power delivered only to the front wheels.
One thing is certain: the new Civic will not be built at Honda’s Swindon plant, as it will close in 2021. It is not known where the Japanese company intends to produce the next-generation family car.
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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-07-23 13:34:52
