IN 2017 Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) brought in for the first time the Civic Type R. All 100 units allocated locally were sold before the end of the year.
As a “response to the overwhelming market acceptance and persistent demand” for the model, HCPI said it is offering this year 100 more Civic Type Rs. The company explained cars wearing the Type R badge are the “highest performance version” of a Honda model, and are “racing-inspired road cars” that represent the concept of “minimizing weight while maximizing power, responsiveness, dynamic stability and braking performance.”
The Civic Type R, a nameplate that marks its 26th anniversary this year is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged VTEC engine that makes 306 hp at 6,500 rpm and 400 Nm at 2,500-4,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission (equipped with a rev match control system that can be switched on or off) that sends power to the front wheels through a limited-slip differential.
Other special items that differentiate the Civic Type R from the “normal” Civic are bespoke settings for its chassis, suspension and steering; Honda’s four-wheel Adaptive Damper System that adjusts itself to different driving conditions; Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers in front; variable-ratio electric power-assisted steering that adjusts according to the driving mode selected — +R, Sport, and Comfort; Type R grille, spoiler, vortex generators, carbon-fiber-like trim on the front and rear bumpers (as well as on the side skirts); and 20-inch Berlina Black alloys that are wrapped in 245/30 R20 tires. The car’s cabin gets bucket seats with suede-like red and black fabric trim; steering wheel with red leather inserts; carbon-fiber inlay; and an exclusive Type R serial number plate unique to every car.
For 2018, HCPI said the Civic Type R is available in Polished Metallic Metal paint job, along with the colors — Championship White and Rallye Red — it was previously offered in. The company added reservations can now be placed at any of its 37 dealerships, with deliveries beginning in October. No price has been announced. The 2017 models sold for P2.980 million.
