Honda’s most extreme Type R yet – the Civic Type R Limited Edition – has set a new lap record at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan for Front-Wheel Drive cars, with a time of 2 mins and 23.993 seconds.
In case you’re wondering what is different with the Civic Type R Limited Edition, it features lightweight components, suspension and steering upgrades, and a stripped-back, driver-focused interior, making it lighter which of course means quicker.
The record-breaking lap was achieved by a Type R Limited Edition development car as it underwent its final performance evaluation in February 2020.
The development car featured the same technical specifications as the production version, with no modifications or performance enhancements.
Just 100 of the Type R Limited Edition will be built for Europe, each benefiting from the standard Type R’s outstanding driving dynamics and performance.
The new Limited Edition features lightweight 20-inch forged BBS alloy wheels with high grip Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres. These are designed exclusively for outstanding circuit performance but still deliver exceptional on-road performance, whilst providing a 10kg weight saving.
Modified dampers optimise this new wheel and tyre combination and, together with recalibrated steering, offer maximum control and feedback.
The Adaptive Damper System’s control software now evaluates road conditions faster, resulting in improved damper reactions for both better handling response and ride quality.
The new Limited Edition model retains the Type R’s 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine. Peak power output is 320PS at 6,500 rpm and peak torque is 400 Nm from 2,500 rpm to 4,500 rpm. 0-100 km/h is achieved in 5.7 seconds.
The striking Type R Limited Edition will be available in an exclusive new colour, ‘Sunlight Yellow’, and will feature an exclusive dark chrome Civic badge on the rear hatch and a contrasting gloss black roof.
Gloss black wing mirrors and an intake vent on the bonnet complete its aggressive styling.
The interior of the flagship Civic Type R Limited Edition echoes Honda’s sporting bloodline with red bucket seats and a plaque marking the build number of the car.
The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and a newly designed teardrop style gear knob provides the driver with a greater sense of oneness with the Type R even on the highly technical Suzuka Circuit.
The track-focused nature of the car means the infotainment and air conditioning systems are omitted to save weight, but the rear seats remain to ensure that that the Limited Edition retains the everyday usability for which the Civic is renowned.
The new tyres and wheels, together with new lightweight components and a stripped-back interior all contribute to a 47kg weight reduction compared to the Type R GT variant.
Meanwhile, the suspension set-up and Adaptive Damper System have also been improved across all Type R models for more responsive, sharper handling and improved ride quality.
