Honda shows the sharpest Civic Type R yet as HRC version moves from circuit to road
Honda released a development video of the Civic Type R HRC, a sharper and more circuit focused version of its hot hatch. The new model goes further than the standard Type R, with Honda Racing Corporation using experience from motorsport and feedback from racing drivers to shape the car.
Type R gets the HRC treatment
Honda showed the new Civic Type R HRC in a development video centred on aerodynamics, suspension tuning and handling. Japanese racing driver Takuma Sato also appears in the film, which gives the whole thing rather more credibility than the usual slow motion test track theatre.
HRC stands for Honda Racing Corporation. According to Honda, the Civic Type R HRC Concept was created to bring track proven technology and driver feedback closer to a road car.
The changes focus on aerodynamics and chassis tuning
The video shows a revised front end, a more aggressive aero package and a new rear wing. Road & Track also points to a deeper front spoiler, extra details around the front wings, altered side skirts and an Akrapovic exhaust with three tailpipes.
Honda has not yet released the final technical figures. The engine may also receive changes. The video briefly shows the power unit, cooling system and exhaust, but official output figures remain under wraps for now.
The racing car is more than background noise
HRC is also using the Civic Type R HRC Concept as a development car in the Super Taikyu series. According to Honda.Racing, the car competes in the ST Q class, where manufacturers can test development models. The data gathered there will feed into HRC Performance Parts development.
That matters. The new HRC version is not simply a cosmetic special edition with a louder exhaust and a bigger wing. Honda is testing aerodynamic parts, chassis settings and circuit hardware in a real racing environment.
Europe is unlikely to get it
The new Civic Type R HRC could make its full debut in the coming months, but its chances in Europe look slim. Honda’s European press material said the Civic Type R Ultimate Edition marked the end of the model’s sales in Europe, with just 40 examples built.
That means the HRC version will most likely remain a story for Japan and North America. Its wider meaning is more interesting. Honda is showing that development of the combustion engined Civic Type R is not finished yet, and that the brand’s sporting DNA is not drifting only towards electric concepts.
