Honda reveals specifications on new Civic Type R

Honda Europe has lifted the lid on the 2018 Civic Type R’s specifications ahead of its local launch later this year.

Detailing improved aerodynamics, a lighter chassis, and key suspension changes, the new R's specs reveal how it smashed the previous-generation Type R’s Nurburgring lap record by 6.8sec.

It's an interesting read, because while power's up 7kW torque from the turbo 2.0-litre four remains 400Nm. And even though its body has been stiffened and weighs 16kg less, the car’s only 2kg lighter overall at 1380kg.

Meanwhile, its 0-100km/h sprint takes, again, 5.7sec to 100km/h. So where did the brand find all the time on the ’Ring? The improvements begin at ground level.

The new Civic Type R sports 10mm wider tyres all round. Sized at 245/30 R20, Continental SportContact6 tyres provide compound and tread. Honda, however, hasn’t revealed if this is the rubber which delivered the scorching ’Ring time.

These footprints are spread across a longer wheelbase, which now stretches 2.69m long, 145mm more than before. An ‘all-new’ rear multi-link setup widens rear track by a hefty 65mm. While new aluminium arms swap into the front dual-axis strut system and close track by 6mm.

But wait, there’s more. By relocating the fuel tank, the centre of gravity’s now brought inward and helped drop it 1cm.

Honda’s kept Brembo on the books by re-using a four-piston calipers up front, but increased rear solid disc sizes by 9mm.

All those wings and vents aren’t for show, either. Honda boasts drag’s been slashed by 3 per cent and lift 1 per cent.

On the straights a 7 per cent shorter final drive ratio is used, yet its top speed has crept up from 269km/h to 272km/h.

Don't expect local variant mechanical specification to greatly differ from what's been outlined.

Other markets will benefit from a choice of two variants, a base and Civic Type R GT. But Aussies are most likely in for single car with a mix of equipment from both specs.

Local pricing will be revealed when MOTOR drives the car in Germany this month.

Engine 2.0-litre inline four, DOHC, 16v, turbo
Power 235kW @ 6500rpm
Torque 400Nm @ 2500rpm
Kerb weight (EU) 1380kg
Max speed 272km/h
Length/width/height 4557mm/1877mm/1434mm
Brakes four-piston calipers, 350mm ventilated (f); 305mm solid discs (r)
0-100km/h 5.7sec (claimed)
Fuel consumption 7.7 litres per 100km (claimed combined cycle)
Price TBC