On the racetrack with 201 horsepower....

Estoril – There are many different opinions about New Civic Type R: somebody like it and somedoy do not, because this is not a common car, but quite a peculiar one which wants to distinguish from all its competitors. New Honda Civic Type-R is powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC engine with similar output, the car is reworked for greater refinement and responsiveness thanks to a new balancer shaft and a drive-by-wire throttle. The 201 PS maximum power output is now reached at 8,000 rpm (previously 200 PS at 7,400 rpm).

Performance
While the headline performance figures are expected to be virtually identical to the 6.6 second 0-100 km/h time and 235 km/h top speed of the Type R in its previous incarnation, the engine enhancements mean the new car is more responsive generally, while improved aerodynamics ensures the new car cuts through the air more cleanly. Slightly lower gearing compensates for a small increase in kerb weight.
VTEC variable valve timing and VTC variable inlet camshaft technology continue to underpin the engine architecture. Its exhilarating, high revving nature is retained, but the switch to high lift, long duration valve timing now takes place at a lower 5,200 rpm, and continues all the way to the 8,000 rpm red line. There is a new i-VTEC indicator just to the right of the digital speedometer which is illuminated within this rev range.

Design
Widely praised for its ride and handling balance, the chassis of the Civic 5-door forms the basis for all 3-door models and provides an ideal platform for a high performance derivative. Building on the Civic Type S suspension which is fine-tuned for sharper chassis dynamics to match its sportier profile, the Type R takes those modifications on to the next level. Like the Type S, its rear track is 20 mm wider than that of the 5-door model, but otherwise damper, bush and spring characteristics are all unique to Type R.
225/40 ZR18 tyres provide added grip, while the 15 mm reduction in ride height further reduces body roll. What's more, the fuel tank's central location beneath the cabin floor lowers the centre of gravity and the body's inertia moment. Firmer steering, a quicker ratio and stiffer steering box mountings in combination provide pin-sharp responses to steering wheel input.
The new Type R's bold styling is undeniably assertive in its appearance. The aggressive looking body has a series of fully integrated aerodynamic parts that together with a 15 mm reduced ride height – compared to 5-door and Type S models – and standard seven-spoke 18" alloy wheels, are a clear indication of the car's potent nature. The deep front spoiler incorporates a larger air intake as well as triangular foglamps whose shape mirrors the large exhaust tailpipes at the rear.
Taking the Type R philosophy to its logical conclusion, a lighter Civic Type R will be available. The deletion of items such as the audio system, rear load cover, engine under cover and reduced noise insulation material brings weight down by 40 kg. This version forms the basis for receiving FIA Group A homologated prepared parts. In addition, the Civic Type R itself will be homologated to FIA Group N and Group A as well as the forthcoming Group R.
The new Civic Type R will receive its international show debut in Paris during September and sales are expected to begin in 2007.

On the road
As soon as we enter the cab, we notice a sports environment: wrapping seats, “Racing Red” coloured Honda logo, sport steering-wheel, a futuristic bridge.
Moreover, when we start driving and we meet some bends, we also understand how good and precise this Honda Civic is on the road. Stiff chassis, great suspension geometry, a stiff and precise steering wheel: everything allows thic car offering outstandig dynamics.

What is more, the breaking system is perfect for such a “playmate”, also thanks to wide 300 mm front discs.
The car can go from 0 to 100 in just 6”6, the peak torque is 196 Nm at 5900 RPM , and it is easy to understnad that maximum speed can also reach 230 km/h...
It is really nice to drive this car on Portuguese roads, here in Estoril.
Wet roads do not scare us, as safety is very high: Twe can say Type R is definately an interesting sport car!