2023 Honda Civic Type R
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R is here, and drivers everywhere are excited to access this incredibly cool sports car. While there's still much to be learned about the newest generation of the iconic Civic Type R, what we have seen so far is impressive. It still has a standard manual transmission, its historic classic red upholstery, and an even more powerful turbocharged I-4 engine. This generation also has upgraded brakes and an improved chassis for an even more performance-oriented ride.
All great cars must include a touch of the old while still improving with each new release. Honda does a great job of making this a reality. The new 2023 Civic Type R comes with Honda's latest infotainment system, but with a positive twist––it still offers traditional volume and climate control knobs. It also has much less polarizing looks than its predecessor, appealing to a wider, more mature array of drivers.
Since it's a Honda, it's safe to say that the new Civic Type R doesn't sacrifice safety for fun. Like any good Honda vehicle, the new model includes standard safety features to help protect you and yours. There's a lot to say about this new generation, but what we love most about the 2023 Civic Type R is its ability to act as both a sports car and an everyday commuter.
Starting MSRP: $39,000 [a]
Engine: 2.0L Turbo I-4
Transmission: 6-speed Manual
Screen Size (in): 9
Performance
Faster Than Ever
We don't know everything about the new Civic Type R's performance. But we do know that it can go even faster than the previous model due to its updated chassis and more powerful engine. For perspective, keep in mind that the most recent Civic Type R prior to the 2023 model produced 306 hp, and Honda has stated that the new model will offer even more. The good news is that this power increase doesn't come with drastic changes––the 2023 Civic Type R will still be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine.
Sports car fans will also be happy to know that the new version of this Honda car still comes with a six-speed manual transmission. While having a stick shift isn't always considered a good thing by average sedan drivers, sports car enthusiasts enjoy the manual transmission for the additional control it provides. It's much more fun to go from zero to 60 in less than six seconds when you've got full control of the gears. However, Honda did include an automatic rev-matching feature that will help make downshifts smoother.
Honda has stated that the new chassis is evolved, not changed. This indicates that the model still uses its proven dual-axis strut front suspension but with some unconfirmed improvements. This is great news since Honda's dual-axis strut front suspension has been a fan favorite for years as it drastically reduces torque steer and improves handling during high-speed turns. Honda isn't messing with a good thing; it is simply polishing what's already been perfected.
Tech
Tech-Oriented
Sports cars are typically more performance-driven than tech-oriented, but the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is more up-to-date than you may think. The infotainment system is easy to use and comes with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Whether you have an iPhone or an Android device, you can seamlessly connect your phone to your car. Maps, Spotify, Apple Music, and even hands-free phone calls are right at your fingertips. You can manually access these features and view your options via the standard nine-inch touchscreen infotainment center or use voice controls to send hands-free commands.
Advanced driver-assist technologies are also present to help keep you safe on the track and on the highway. Standard safety features include Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). FCW alerts drivers when a front-end collision is likely, while CMBS stops the car when the driver can't or doesn't hit the brakes quickly enough. LDW and LKAS help keep the car safely in the appropriate lane. ACC maintains an appropriate distance between you and the vehicle ahead, removing the need to set, cancel, and reset cruise control whenever speeds change.
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R also includes an improved multi-mode driving system. These modes allow drivers to customize everything from the engine's sound to the steering feel. The +R Mode allows for faster downshifting and more track-ready responses. It also includes a special screen for the digital driver display that highlights important performance information. Sport Mode is standard, of course, but you can activate +R Mode or Comfort Mode at the push of a button.
Design
Cleaner Appearance
As fun as the Civic Type R's classic red accent color is for some, the design of the previous generation received backlash over the years. It was often accused of being too "immature" with unrealistic video-game-esque vibes. Honda has clearly taken this criticism into consideration, massively toning down the new design for a cleaner appearance. The 2023 model still offers the same red accents that many fans love, but it comes across in a more "mature" manner.
Previously, the Civic Type R came with 20-inch wheels, but it now includes black 19-inch wheels to allow for more tire sidewall than before. The new wheels are paired with wider and grippier Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tires. The car comes with Type R badging on the inside and out, red seats and carpeting, and a center storage section next to two front cup holders. It also houses a digital instrument cluster for the driver and an infotainment center on the center dash. Its overall design is shorter height-wise, looking less like a hatchback and more like a sporty sedan. Not only does this improve its looks, but it will also help its aerodynamics.
The exterior includes three rear pipes, a rear wing and diffuser, and sporty side moldings. It has a redesigned grille and front bumper that stand out from the standard Civic without being over the top. There are five exterior color options to choose from, including Historic Championship White, Rallye Red, Boost Blue, Crystal Black, and Sonic Gray. The Historic Championship White shade is unique to the Civic Type R.
History
Looking Back 30 Years
The Honda Civic Type R has undergone many changes over the 30 years it has been on the market. What started as a three-door hatchback with 182 hp quickly developed into a 300-plus hp turbocharged machine.
Let's talk a bit about the Type R label. Honda's "Type R" badging dates back before the first of these Honda vehicles. It has also been found on the Accord, the NSX, and the Integra. It's essentially a racing badge that certifies certain Honda models as track-ready racers. When you search "Honda Type R," you'll see more than just the Civic––however, the Civic Type R is the most notable and prevalent Type R model out there.
Coming to America
For its first four generations, the Civic Type R was only available in Japan and Europe. It wasn't until 2017 that the iconic car was first exported to the United States. This meant that American drivers could finally get to own the Civic Type R first-hand and drive it in real life, a much cooler alternative to the only available option before this––a simulated driving experience in Forza Motorsports.
Exclusivity is common for the Civic Type R. For example, the 2007 to 2011 model years came in two different designs: one for Japan and one for Europe. A unique "Black Edition" was created for European drivers in 2017, with only 100 models available. Put simply, American buyers will want to snatch up a 2023 Civic Type R while they can.
Find Your 2023 Civic Type R!
We understand that it's not easy to trust a car dealer. Vehicles are expensive, and the last thing you want is to see additional charges and hidden fees. That's why we're here to help you. Classic Honda of Midland puts your needs first. We understand that expenses are higher than ever before, especially when you're caring for more than just yourself. That's why we offer transparent pricing, even on exciting sports cars like the new 2023 Honda Civic Type R.
Our vehicle financing team will help you get the vehicle you want with a monthly payment you can afford. But we don't just push you out the door and forget about you once you've signed those papers. Our Honda service center is open at convenient hours throughout the week, and we make sure to offer Saturday hours for customers who are on that nine to five grind. We also don't hide our service coupons. When you schedule maintenance with us online (which is just as simple as it sounds), be sure to see what deals we're running and take advantage of them.
We want to be your automotive go-to for life. We'll help you cross every hurdle that stands in the way of bringing home your dream car. It doesn't matter if you're looking to hit the race track or just want to look cool in the city; we'll help you secure that new 2023 Civic Type R. Call or visit Classic Honda of Midland today to reserve your car. We look forward to working with you!