The Honda Civic Type R has long been celebrated as the pinnacle of front-wheel-drive performance, a hot hatch that consistently sets benchmarks for handling, power, and driving engagement. For enthusiasts and potential buyers alike, understanding the Honda Type R Specs is crucial to appreciating what makes this car so exceptional. This detailed guide dives deep into the specifications of the latest Honda Civic Type R, exploring every facet from its potent engine to its meticulously engineered chassis and driver-focused features.
Power Unit: The Heart of the Type R
At the core of the Honda Civic Type R lies a formidable powerplant, engineered for exhilarating performance. Let’s delve into the key engine specs:
Engine Specifications
- Engine Type: In-Line 4-Cylinder with Turbocharger
- Max. Boost Pressure: 25.2 psi
- Displacement: 1,996 cc
- Horsepower (SAE net): 315 hp @ 6,500 rpm
- Torque (SAE net): 310 lb.-ft. @ 2,600-4,000 rpm
- Redline: 7,000 rpm
- Bore and Stroke: 86.0 mm x 85.9 mm
- Compression Ratio: 9.8 : 1
- Valve Train: 16-Valve DOHC VTEC
- CARB Emissions Rating: LEV3-ULEV50
This advanced 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers a thrilling 315 horsepower, available at 6,500 rpm, and a robust 310 lb.-ft. of torque, accessible across a broad rev range from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm. The high redline of 7,000 rpm encourages drivers to explore the engine’s full potential, while features like the VTEC system optimize power delivery across the rev band. The direct injection system further enhances efficiency and responsiveness.
Alt text: Honda Civic Type R engine bay, highlighting the turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine and red valve cover, emphasizing performance engineering.
Engine Technology and Features
Beyond the raw numbers, the Honda Type R engine is packed with technology designed to enhance performance and driver engagement:
- Honda LogR® Datalogger System: Allows drivers to track and analyze vehicle performance data, providing valuable insights for improving driving technique on and off the track.
- Integrated LED Shift Light Indicator: Provides visual cues for optimal gear changes, maximizing performance during spirited driving.
- Active Sound Control (ASC): Enhances the engine’s natural sound within the cabin, creating a more immersive and exciting driving experience.
- 4-Mode Drive System (Comfort/Sport/Individual/+R): Allows drivers to tailor the car’s driving dynamics to different conditions and preferences, from comfortable daily driving to aggressive track performance in +R mode.
- Direct Injection: Improves fuel efficiency and engine responsiveness.
- Drive-by-Wire Throttle System: Provides precise throttle control and seamless integration with electronic driving aids.
- Water-Cooled Oil Cooler: Maintains optimal oil temperatures under demanding driving conditions, ensuring engine longevity and performance.
Drivetrain: Connecting Power to the Road
The potent engine is paired with a meticulously engineered drivetrain that is central to the Honda Type R’s engaging driving dynamics:
- 6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) with Rev-Match Control: A hallmark of the Type R, the precise and engaging 6-speed manual transmission is enhanced with a rev-match control system that automatically blips the throttle during downshifts for smoother gear changes.
- Gear Ratios:
- 1st: 3.625
- 2nd: 2.115
- 3rd: 1.529
- 4th: 1.125
- 5th: 0.911
- 6th: 0.734
- Reverse: 3.757
- Final Drive: 3.842
- Gear Ratios:
- Lightweight Single-Mass Flywheel: Enhances engine responsiveness and allows for quicker revving.
- Helical Limited-Slip Differential: Maximizes traction and cornering performance by distributing torque to the wheel with the most grip.
The close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is designed for quick and precise shifts, contributing significantly to the Type R’s sporty character. The inclusion of a helical limited-slip differential is crucial for putting the power down effectively, especially when exiting corners at high speeds.
Alt text: Honda Civic Type R in motion, side profile view emphasizing aerodynamic lines, red brake calipers, and performance summer tires.
Fuel Economy: Balancing Performance with Efficiency
While performance is paramount, the Honda Civic Type R also offers respectable fuel economy for a high-performance vehicle:
- 6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) (City/Highway/Combined): 22 / 28 / 24 mpg
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.4 gallons
- Required Fuel: Regular Unleaded (91 Octane Recommended)
These figures represent the EPA-estimated fuel economy. Real-world mileage may vary depending on driving style and conditions. The recommendation for 91 octane fuel underscores the high-performance nature of the engine, though it is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel.
Chassis: Engineered for Precision Handling
The chassis of the Honda Civic Type R is meticulously engineered to deliver exceptional handling and responsiveness:
- Adaptive Damper System: Continuously adjusts damper firmness based on driving conditions and selected drive mode, providing optimal balance between comfort and handling.
- Dual-Axis MacPherson Strut Front Suspension: Reduces torque steer and enhances steering precision.
- Multi-Link Rear Suspension: Provides superior handling and stability.
- Dual-Pinion, Variable-Ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS): Offers precise and responsive steering feel with variable assist for different driving situations.
- Stabilizer Bar (front/rear): 29.0 mm x 5.0 mm (tubular) / 20.5 mm (solid)
- Steering Wheel Turns, Lock-to-Lock: 2.10
- Steering Ratio: 11.6: 1
- Turning Diameter, Curb-to-Curb: 39.9 ft.
- Power-Assisted, Ventilated, Two-Piece Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes (front/rear): 13.8 in. / 12.0 in.
- Brembo® 4-Piston Aluminum Front Brake Calipers: Provide exceptional braking performance and fade resistance.
- Wheels: 19 x 9.5J Matte Black Wheels
- Maximum-Performance Summer Tires: 265/30 R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
The advanced suspension system, including the adaptive dampers and dual-axis front suspension, works in harmony to provide the Type R with its legendary handling prowess. The Brembo brakes ensure powerful and consistent stopping performance, essential for both track days and spirited road driving. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires offer exceptional grip and contribute significantly to the car’s cornering capabilities.
Alt text: Front angle of Honda Civic Type R showcasing aggressive styling, red Brembo brake calipers, and 19-inch matte black wheels.
Dimensions and Weight: Sculpted for Performance
The dimensions and weight distribution of the Honda Civic Type R are carefully optimized for performance and agility:
Exterior Dimensions
- Wheelbase (in): 107.7
- Length (in): 180.9
- Height (in): 55.4
- Width (in): 74.4
- Ground Clearance (in): 4.8
- Track (in. front/rear): 64 / 63.5
Weight
- Curb Weight: 3,188 lbs
- Weight Distribution (front/rear): 62 / 38
The relatively low curb weight of 3,188 lbs, combined with a front-biased weight distribution typical of front-wheel-drive vehicles, contributes to the Type R’s nimble handling and quick acceleration.
Interior Dimensions
The Honda Civic Type R provides surprising practicality for a performance car, offering reasonable interior space:
- Headroom (front/rear) [in]: 39.3 / 37.1
- Legroom (front/rear) [in]: 42.3 / 37.4
- Shoulder Room (front/rear) [in]: 57 / 56
- Hiproom (front/rear) [in]: 54.3 / 48.9
- Cargo Volume (rear seat up) [cu. ft.]: 24.5
- Passenger Volume (cu. ft.): 99.0
Despite its sporty focus, the Type R maintains the Civic’s reputation for interior space and usability. The cargo volume is particularly impressive for a hatchback in this class.
Features: Technology and Convenience
Beyond performance, the Honda Civic Type R is equipped with a range of features focused on safety, technology, and driver comfort:
Honda Sensing® Safety & Driver-Assistance Technology
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Blind Spot Information System
- Backing Out Support
- Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Audio & Connectivity
- Bose Premium Audio System with 12 Speakers, including Subwoofer
- 9-Inch Display Audio with High-Resolution Electrostatic Touch-Screen
- 10.2″ Digital Instrument Cluster
- Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™
- HondaLink®
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® Compatibility
- Wireless Android Auto™ Compatibility
- SiriusXM®
- HD Radio™
- Wireless Charger
Comfort & Convenience
- Type R Serial Number Plate
- Leather 18″-wrapped steering wheel
- Sport Pedals
- Aluminum Shift Knob
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control System
- Push Button Start
- Power Windows and Door Locks
- Cruise Control
Seating
- Exclusively-Designed, High-Bolstered Sport Seats with Red/Black Suede-Effect Fabric
- Seating Capacity: 4
The inclusion of Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies adds a layer of practicality and safety to the Type R, making it suitable for daily driving as well as track days. The advanced infotainment system with wireless smartphone integration and premium Bose audio further enhances the driving experience.
Colors & Trims: Personalizing Your Type R
The Honda Civic Type R offers a selection of striking colors to match your personal style:
Standard Exterior Colors
- Rallye Red
- Crystal Black Pearl
Premium Exterior Colors
- Championship White
- Sonic Gray Pearl
- Boost Blue Pearl
All exterior colors are paired with a distinctive Black/Red interior color scheme, emphasizing the Type R’s sporty and aggressive character.
Conclusion: The Definitive Honda Type R Specs
The Honda Type R specs reveal a vehicle meticulously engineered for driving enthusiasts. From its high-revving turbocharged engine and slick 6-speed manual transmission to its advanced chassis and driver-focused technology, every aspect of the Type R is designed to deliver an unparalleled hot hatch experience. Whether you’re captivated by its raw performance figures or the intricate details of its engineering, understanding the specifications underscores why the Honda Civic Type R remains a benchmark in its class and a coveted car for drivers who demand the ultimate in front-wheel-drive thrills.
