Honda Civic 2022: Type R set for summer reveal

Say hello to the new-and-improved Honda Civic Type R. The new Civic range gets a new look, improved infotainment and will be available with several hybrid drivetrains. The Type R, however, features several sporting enhancements.

Here’s everything we know so far.

Honda Civic 2022 fast facts

• Tweaked styling across the range
• Hybrid drivetrains across the range
• New infotainment system
• Order books to open later this year
• Type R set for 2023 launch

Honda Civic exterior

Externally, the pictures reveal the next Honda Civic will very much be a development of the current car. Going somewhat against the grain, the new car appears to have gained a smoother and less angular appearance.

Unlike the Honda Civic e:HEV, the Civic Type R adopts a sportier look and feel, sitting lower to the road and having a wider stance ties in the unique driving experience the Civic has always promised to provide.

As standard, the Type R is given 19-inch alloy wheels in matte black, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. Impressive Brembo braking system comes standard with the Type R.

The headlights are slightly softer but combined with the grille designed to maximise airflow (with additional bonnet vent) and rear diffuser (designed to increase aerodynamics and contributes to downforce) it’s still obvious that it is related to the current Civic Type R, just much less ‘busy’.

Round the back, a full-width light bar has been added, as has a new bumper. Honda also increased the wheelbase by more than an inch. This will boost legroom and allows the car to have a more fastback look.

You can choose from the following paint options:

• Championship White
• Rallye Red
• Racing Blue
• Crystal Black
• Sonic Grey Pearls

Honda Civic Type R interior

The inside continues the Type R red trim on finishes and has a freestanding 7in touchscreen infotainment system – likely a development of the current car’s which is compatible with Android Auto and Apple Car Play. A 9in upgraded unit will also be available.

The driver can now sit much lower to the floor which is sure to give you that immersive experience. Front Sport seats are upholstered with a suede-effect fabric. They’ve been carefully considered and designed to support the driver’s posture and comfortability to match even the fussiest of driving personalities.

The driver now benefits from a 10in digital display as standard, while the steering wheel and buttons have been updated too. There is a new driving mode to choose from too, called ‘Individual Mode’ and can be selected instead of Comfort, Sport and +R modes. The new mode is said to allow a personalised experience with the option of customisation.

The dashboard design means the infotainment has moved – in the middle portion, you’ll now find a stylish trim piece that incorporates the air vents in the centre and passenger side.

Honda Civic Type R drivetrains

Continuing from its previous engine, the new Civic Type R will utilise the 17YM engine which has been refined to deliver the fastest drive in the history of the Civic. The turbo has received its own housing which is said to improve the overall unit efficiency.

The six-speed manual transmission helps the driver to feel more in control of the vehicle, with a rev-match system integrated to aid in perfect revs when shifting down.

Honda Civic Type R

The hot Type R snapped above is set to launch after the standard range, and will feature the same 2.0-litre turbo VTEC engine used in the current model. However, enhancements could include mild-hybrid tech and more power – up to 350hp according to sources. It’ll be revealed on 23 July.

The images don’t give much away, but you can expect a seriously aggressive bodykit to feature, along with internal tweaks that make the Type R model special than the standard car. The new Type R has already been setting lap records, having taken top position for front-wheel drive laps at Japan’s Suzuka circuit.

Honda Civic release date

The Type R will be available to order in Europe in early 2023. We’ll bring you leasing plans as soon as they are available.