Honda Bids Farewell to Current Civic with a 260HP Mugen-Tuned Type R 2.2 Special

With the world premiere of the all-new European Civic hatchback at the Frankfurt Motor Show right around the corner, Honda decided to bid farewell to the outgoing model with the development of a hardcore version of the limited run Type R Mugen that may be offered to the public.

Confused? Allows us to explain. Last year, in collaboration with its in-house tuning division Mugen, Honda built 20 examples of the Civic Type R Mugen that features an uprated 2.0-liter K20 four-cylinder engine producing 240-horsepower. Of the 20 cars built, four remain unsold.

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2011 Honda Civic Type R Euro Launched in Japan, Limited to 1,500 Units

Honda has introduced a new model year version of its British-built Civic Type R Euro in Japan. The 2011MY batch will be the last of this model series to make its way to Japan as production of the current generation three-door Civic Type R has been terminated in Europe because its 2.0-litre VTEC engine does not meet the Euro V emissions regulations.

The Japanese automaker had imported 1,850 examples of the Civic Type R Euro from Britain in late 2009. This time, Honda will bring a total of 1,500 units of the 2011MY version of its high-revving hot hatch. The only changes over the previous model year are the addition of a new Crystal Black Pearl color, some trim updates such as the different finish of the fuel cap and a new numbered plaque.

In Japan, prices for the 2011MY Civic Type R Euro start from 3,000,000 Yen [including consumption tax] or about US$37,200.

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2007 Honda Civic Type R : Coming this week - Preliminary spec

All you "Red liners" better start warming up those VTEC engines as on Thursday, the 14th of September, Honda's going to officially unveil the all-new 3door 2007 Civic Type R. Although unfortunately, there're no pictures floating around the net, I managed to get inside info on the preliminary specifications on the car.

Design: As you all probably know, the production version is based on the Civic Type R Concept we saw at this years Geneva Show in March. While the exterior remains virtually identical to the prototype (photos), we still haven't set eyes on the interior. According to my sources though, the Type R will differentiate itself from the base versions thanks to front bucket seats with characteristic red stitch lining and centre logo, two individual rear seats, special sport steering wheel, red illuminated dials on the console etc.

Under the hood: There's no significant changes here as the 2007 CTR (Civic Type R) will get a slightly updated version of Honda's high-revving 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine producing 201 Hp at 8.000 rpm (previous model 200 Hp at 7.400 rpm). Practically, that means that you won't hear the rev limiter stopping the course of the needle before 8.500 rpm !

Performance: Despite the slight increase in weight, thanks to the more responsive 2.0 i-VTEC engine and the closer ratios of the 6speed gearbox, the 2007 Civic Type R will retain its predecessors performance figures. So, the new CTR will nead around 6,6 sec for the 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) sprint while top speed will remain near the 235 km/h -146 mph range of the previous Civic Type R.

Special Editions: As it was announced at the British Motor Show in July, the new Type R will be available in various versions ranging from the "Lux" GT, which will offer extra equipment such as dual zone air conditioning and automatic rain and light sensors to a yet unnamed version, aimed at the "purists". The latter will defy any luxuries like radio, dual-zone ac -even insulation material, in an attempt to save weight.

According to my information, the stripped out Civic Type R will weigh about 50 to 60 kg (110 to 130 pounds) less than the base edition. Although the difference in performance isn't expected to be significant -a 0,1 sec gain on the 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sounds logical to me, it'll probably give the lighter Civic Type R better road handling credentials.

When is it coming? : After this week's "online" unveiling, the 2007 Civic Type R will make its world premiere at the Paris International Motor Show (28 September) with sales starting in Europe in February & March -depending on the country. Still, there's no word yet about an US version, but we'll know more about that after the Paris Motor Show.

Paris Show: 2007 Honda Civic Type R official specs & pictures

AS announced from this site a few days ago -seeing is believing so click here & take a look at what Carscoop wrote: 2007 Honda Civic Type R, Honda officially unveiled its top spec Civic, the Type R. No surprises as to the exterior appearance which retains nearly all the characteristics of the prototype. As for the interior the new Type R gets the usual red upholstery, bucket seats etc.

Power comes from a slightly revised version of the previous Type R's 2.0 i-VTEC which pumps out 201 Hp (from 200 Hp). According to Honda, 0-100 km/h (62 mph) and top speed figures are expected to remain identical to the previous version (6,6 sec & 235 km/h - 146 mph respectively). Apart from the "basic" version, the 2007 Civic Type R will be available in two other specs, a luxury GT and a lighter sportier one without audio systems, rear load cover etc.

The new Civic Type R will make its international show debut in Paris during September and sales are expected to begin in Europe in 2007. All the range of Type R and Type S, will be built exclusively alongside the Civic 5-door range at the Honda's UK manufacturing site in Swindon.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE : Honda Motor Europe Ltd today announced the eagerly awaited new Civic Type R, the successor to a model whose unique blend of affordability, exhilarating driving characteristics and everyday usability resulted in sales that exceeded all expectations.

Engine: Given the outstanding performance credentials of its predecessor, Honda saw little purpose in increasing engine output. The new Type R therefore continues to be powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC engine with similar output, but 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).

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.

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.

Chassis - Wheels - Suspension : 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 Civic 5-door already offers one of the stiffest body structures in the C-segment; and the Type R's body is further enhanced, playing a key role in the particularly responsive chassis dynamics. Extra strengthening has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings, while the lower cross member just ahead of engine bay provides greater rigidity. The overall result is a chassis offering more predictable characteristics than the old model, with levels of responsiveness and stability that are some of the best in class. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced ride comfort in keeping with the increased refinement of the new Type R.

Design: 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. There's a distinct body coloured tailgate rear spoiler for added downforce that splits the rear tailgate glass rather than the raised glass profile featured on Civic 5-door and Type S models.

Other identifying features are deliberately discrete: Type R logos feature on the front brake callipers and the glass panel grille of the Civic Type S is replaced with a honeycomb mesh and central red 'H' logo.

Interior : Step over the stainless steel door sill inserts, complete with "Type R" logo, into the cabin, and again there is no mistaking that this is a car developed for driving excitement. Front seat occupants are gripped by bucket seats with large black Alcantara bolsters with red stitching and red fabric seat cushions and backs. Two distinct rear seats repeat the same colour coordination. The highly effective and strikingly stylish Dual Link concept fascia common to other Civic models naturally features in the Type R, but with red illuminated dials set off by gun metallic switch panels on either side of the meter display. The driver grips a black, perforated leather covered steering wheel with red stitching and central 'H' logo, while the matching gear shift knob with aluminium-finish has a black boot with red stitching.

And, as a finishing touch and for added exclusivity there is a plaque engraved with the car's unique serial number placed just ahead of the gear lever.

Lighter Sport & GT Versions : For those customers who want added convenience and an enhanced specification, there will be a fully equipped version available. Additional features include curtain SRS bags, cruise control, fog lights, automatic lights and wipers and dual zone air conditioning. A state-of-the-art Navigation system, with voice control functionality as well as RDS traffic monitoring, is offered as an option.

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.

Technorati: Honda+Civic+Type+R, I-Vtec, Press+Release, 2007, GT, tuning+news, tune, autos, news, Mondial+de+l'Automobile, 2006, automobile, cars, scoops, automotive, vehicles, Paris+International+Motor+Show

Official: 2007 Honda Civic TYPE S 3door

Ok, this is it Honda-boys: the new 3door Civic and in particularly, the second most sporty version of the range before the TYPE R comes to life, the TYPE S. Powered by either a 1.8 litre petrol engine or a 2.2 litre diesel engine, both of which produce 103kW/140PS and are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, the 3 door TYPE S will make its world debut at the British International Motor Show, to be held at ExCeL, London, in July 2006 while sales are expected to commence in Europe in early 2007.

More important for Honda fans is the fact that the 3door Civic TYPE S forms the basis for the forthcoming Civic TYPE R, which is also scheduled to be launched in early 2007. The brits will have the chance to see the Civic TYPE R Concept as it will make its UK debut at the Motor Show, but this time, Honda will preview the car in a sexy white color (in Geneva it was in yellow). More details about the production version will be provided when the Civic TYPE R makes its public debut at the Paris Motor Show later this year.

PRESS RELEASE

Sharing the same dynamic silhouette and overall dimensions as the acclaimed 5-door model, the Civic TYPE S further emphasizes the Civic's sporty and fun-to-drive direction to appeal to a young audience. The styling is therefore more assertive and the suspension is tuned for sharper chassis dynamics, with revised spring and damper settings and a 20mm wider rear track.

Further emphasising its sporty nature, the Civic TYPE S is powered by either a 1.8 litre petrol engine or a 2.2 litre diesel engine, both of which produce 103kW/140PS and are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Two model grades will be offered. The extensive specification of the standard TYPE S includes 17 inch alloys, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), air conditioning, cool box, remote audio controls and side curtain airbags. The TYPE S Plus adds dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, retractable mirrors, automatic wipers and automatic headlamps. Certain markets also gain HID headlamps, heated front seats and a panorama glass roof.

Sculpted and fully integrated side skirts flare outwards towards front and rear wheels and seamlessly blend into the wheel arch surrounds, familiar from the 5-door model. These in turn flow into the front and rear spoilers to complete the lower body structure, all of which is finished in a gun metallic colour for added visual appeal. The deep front air intake, together with the 17 inch alloy wheels and wider rear track provide the TYPE S with a particularly muscular and planted look.

Black Alcantara seating and a leather trimmed steering wheel, both with silver stitching, plus aluminium pedals, set the tone for the equally sporty interior. Large seat bolsters provide reassuring support during cornering.

The cabin is focused around the unique and visually arresting Dual Link concept fascia introduced on the 5-door model. Key driving information, including vehicle speed, is displayed in the upper part of the instrument panel, while other information is provided in the lower section. This design is particularly effective in presenting information without compromising the driver's concentration on the road.

The Civic's coupe-like styling has not compromised the cabin space. The interior instead succeeds in providing a high degree of flexibility and passenger accommodation. The distance between the hip point of front and rear passengers at 803 mm, for example, equates to that in higher segment cars.

The rear seats also incorporate Honda's familiar one-motion, dive-down feature that instantaneously creates a flat loading space of a spacious 485 litres, mirroring that of the 5-door model. The cargo floor can also be dropped down to reveal an under-floor compartment. A centrally positioned fuel tank located beneath the front seats, rather than impinging on the luggage area, plays a key role in achieving this packaging efficiency.

The comprehensive safety features include ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution with brake assist, VSA, front and side SRS airbags, full length side curtain airbags, double seatbelt pre-tensioners on both front seats and active headrests. The instrument display also features an innovative seatbelt reminder for both front and rear seat passengers. Honda anticipates a Euro NCAP result of 5 stars for front and side impact safety, 3 stars for pedestrian safety and 4 stars for child protection safety, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

Official: 2007 Honda Civic TYPE S 3door

Ok, this is it Honda-boys: the new 3door Civic and in particularly, the second most sporty version of the range before the TYPE R comes to life, the TYPE S. Powered by either a 1.8 litre petrol engine or a 2.2 litre diesel engine, both of which produce 103kW/140PS and are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, the 3 door TYPE S will make its world debut at the British International Motor Show, to be held at ExCeL, London, in July 2006 while sales are expected to commence in Europe in early 2007.

More important for Honda fans is the fact that the 3door Civic TYPE S forms the basis for the forthcoming Civic TYPE R, which is also scheduled to be launched in early 2007. The brits will have the chance to see the Civic TYPE R Concept as it will make its UK debut at the Motor Show, but this time, Honda will preview the car in a sexy white color (in Geneva it was in yellow). More details about the production version will be provided when the Civic TYPE R makes its public debut at the Paris Motor Show later this year.

PRESS RELEASE

Sharing the same dynamic silhouette and overall dimensions as the acclaimed 5-door model, the Civic TYPE S further emphasizes the Civic's sporty and fun-to-drive direction to appeal to a young audience. The styling is therefore more assertive and the suspension is tuned for sharper chassis dynamics, with revised spring and damper settings and a 20mm wider rear track.

Further emphasising its sporty nature, the Civic TYPE S is powered by either a 1.8 litre petrol engine or a 2.2 litre diesel engine, both of which produce 103kW/140PS and are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Two model grades will be offered. The extensive specification of the standard TYPE S includes 17 inch alloys, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), air conditioning, cool box, remote audio controls and side curtain airbags. The TYPE S Plus adds dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, retractable mirrors, automatic wipers and automatic headlamps. Certain markets also gain HID headlamps, heated front seats and a panorama glass roof.

Sculpted and fully integrated side skirts flare outwards towards front and rear wheels and seamlessly blend into the wheel arch surrounds, familiar from the 5-door model. These in turn flow into the front and rear spoilers to complete the lower body structure, all of which is finished in a gun metallic colour for added visual appeal. The deep front air intake, together with the 17 inch alloy wheels and wider rear track provide the TYPE S with a particularly muscular and planted look.

Black Alcantara seating and a leather trimmed steering wheel, both with silver stitching, plus aluminium pedals, set the tone for the equally sporty interior. Large seat bolsters provide reassuring support during cornering.

The cabin is focused around the unique and visually arresting Dual Link concept fascia introduced on the 5-door model. Key driving information, including vehicle speed, is displayed in the upper part of the instrument panel, while other information is provided in the lower section. This design is particularly effective in presenting information without compromising the driver's concentration on the road.

The Civic's coupe-like styling has not compromised the cabin space. The interior instead succeeds in providing a high degree of flexibility and passenger accommodation. The distance between the hip point of front and rear passengers at 803 mm, for example, equates to that in higher segment cars.

The rear seats also incorporate Honda's familiar one-motion, dive-down feature that instantaneously creates a flat loading space of a spacious 485 litres, mirroring that of the 5-door model. The cargo floor can also be dropped down to reveal an under-floor compartment. A centrally positioned fuel tank located beneath the front seats, rather than impinging on the luggage area, plays a key role in achieving this packaging efficiency.

The comprehensive safety features include ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution with brake assist, VSA, front and side SRS airbags, full length side curtain airbags, double seatbelt pre-tensioners on both front seats and active headrests. The instrument display also features an innovative seatbelt reminder for both front and rear seat passengers. Honda anticipates a Euro NCAP result of 5 stars for front and side impact safety, 3 stars for pedestrian safety and 4 stars for child protection safety, making it one of the safest cars in its class.