2023 Civic Type R Shows Off Honda Heritage

• Honda reveals its new Civic Type R without camouflage for the first time and in five different heritage colorways.

• An updated version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four from the previous Type R will drive the new model, though power figures are still unavailable.

• Designers at Honda pay tribute to former Type R models with stunning red seats and floor mats adorning the sleek and minimalistic interior.

After months of test mule shots and camouflage video snippets, Honda has finally dropped the disguises and released photos of the 2023 Civic Type R in production form. Shown in Type R exclusive Historic Championship White, the new performance sedan will be available in four additional colors: Rallye Red, Racing Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, and Sonic Grey Pearl. Honda has confirmed the Type R will be powered by an updated version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four from the previous Type R, noting this version will be the most powerful Honda product ever offered in the US.

That means we can expect power figures to rise above 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, though Honda has yet to disclose precise numbers. Purists will be relieved to hear that a slick 6-speed manual transmission is here to stay. The company's release hints at a track-ready suspension and wider Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, but details about adjustability and section width are still to come.

As far as looks go, this new Civic Type R will be longer, lower, and wider than the 11th-generation Civic chassis it's based on. Many of these changes are undeniably good-looking but purely cosmetic. Select pieces, such as the front fender grilles and rear wing, are genuinely functional, increasing airflow for cooling or downforce purposes. Specifically, the rear wing is mounted on lightweight die-cast aluminum stays that reduce aerodynamic drag while continuing to produce useable downforce.

Inside the new Type R is where the years of Honda heritage come together. Paying homage to historic legends like the Integra Type R, bright red microsuede seats and floor mats light up the cabin. The rest of the interior is set in deep black with silver accents. A single, dash-mounted screen features the infotainment and Honda's LogR™ data logger, displaying information like G forces and lap times. Further examination of the interior photos reveals a drive mode selector, dual-zone climate control, and a customizable gauge cluster.

As we learn more details about the new Civic Type R, a pivotal question remains: How soon does it arrive, and how much will it cost? The company has yet to say, though it's likely it won't stray far from its $45,000 predecessor. Honda hasn't opened orders for the Type R yet, but Nurburgring tested suspension, a revered power plant, and a hint of nostalgia is a great blueprint for an engaging, well-received enthusiast vehicle. If the new model's performance takes a step up from the previous Type R, Honda won't have much trouble selling it, even with current dealer markups.