Honda Civic Type R Gets Sharper and More Refined for 2020
As reported last fall, the 2020 model year brings several changes to the Honda Civic lineup. Following the sporty Si models and the entry-level Civic Hatchback, the fearsome Civic Type R receives a few updates of its own.
The world premiere took place yesterday at Tokyo Auto Salon in Japan. The car will go on sale in North America by the end of winter.
The refreshed 2020 Honda Civic Type R features a larger front grille that improves engine cooling and will be available in an exclusive new colour called Boost Blue.
With regard to performance, the brake discs and pads were upgraded to reduce fade and improve high-speed braking efficiency. The suspension includes updated dampers for better ride comfort, stiffer rear bushings for better grip, as well as modifications to the front suspension to reduce friction and improve steering feel.
Drivers can also expect more refinement in the form of a new Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel along with a new shifter featuring a restyled knob and shorter shift throws. Meanwhile, the company addressed a glaring safety issue by adding the Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance technologies as standard equipment.
Sadly for some, there are no changes to the direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which still sends 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission exclusively. However, engineers incorporated an Active Sound Control system that modifies interior sound in concert with the chosen drive mode (Comfort, Sport or +R).
Pricing for the 2020 Honda Civic Type R will be announced closer to launch.
