The 2023 Honda Civic Type R marks the latest evolution in Honda’s legendary line of high-performance hatchbacks. Engineered for exhilarating performance both on the road and track, the Civic Type R boasts a potent powertrain, track-tuned chassis, and aggressive styling. Let’s dive into the detailed specifications that define this ultimate driving machine.
Power Unit: Heart of the Beast
At the core of the 2023 Civic Type R lies a formidable power unit, meticulously engineered to deliver thrilling performance:
- Engine Type: In-Line 4-Cylinder with Turbocharger. This turbocharged engine provides a significant power boost over naturally aspirated counterparts, ensuring rapid acceleration and responsiveness.
- Max. Boost Pressure: 25.2 psi. The high boost pressure is crucial for generating the engine’s impressive horsepower and torque figures.
- Displacement: 1,996 cc. A 2.0-liter displacement offers a great balance between power and efficiency.
- Horsepower (SAE net): 315 hp @ 6,500 rpm. This impressive horsepower figure, certified by SAE standards, places the Civic Type R among the most powerful front-wheel-drive cars on the market.
- Torque (SAE net): 310 lb.-ft. @ 2,600-4,000 rpm. The broad torque band, available from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm, ensures strong pulling power across a wide range of engine speeds, enhancing drivability in various conditions.
- Redline: 7,000 rpm. A high redline indicates the engine’s sporty character and willingness to rev, contributing to an exciting driving experience.
- Bore and Stroke: 86.0 mm x 85.9 mm. Near square bore and stroke dimensions often suggest a good balance between low-end torque and high-rpm power.
- Compression Ratio: 9.8 : 1. This compression ratio is optimized for a turbocharged engine, balancing performance and reliability.
- Valve Train: 16-Valve DOHC VTEC®. Honda’s renowned VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system enhances engine efficiency and performance across the rev range.
- CARB Emissions Rating: LEV3-ULEV50. This emission rating signifies the Civic Type R’s commitment to environmental standards, meeting stringent California emissions regulations.
- Honda LogR® Datalogger System: Included. This system allows drivers to record and analyze performance data, ideal for track days and performance enthusiasts.
- Integrated LED Shift Light Indicator: Included. A visual cue for optimal gear changes, especially useful during spirited driving.
- Active Sound Control (ASC): Included. ASC enhances the engine’s sound within the cabin, providing a more engaging auditory experience.
- 4-Mode Drive System: (Comfort/Sport/Individual/+R). Multiple drive modes allow drivers to tailor the car’s dynamics to different driving conditions and preferences, from relaxed cruising to aggressive track driving with the +R mode.
- Direct Injection: Included. Direct injection improves fuel efficiency and power delivery.
- Drive-by-Wire Throttle System: Included. Provides precise throttle control and enables advanced electronic engine management.
- Water-Cooled Oil Cooler: Included. Essential for maintaining optimal oil temperature, especially under high-performance driving conditions.
- Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold: Included. Convenient features for everyday driving.
- Hill Start Assist: Included. Prevents rollback when starting on an incline.
- Direct Ignition System with Immobilizer: Included. Enhances security and engine start reliability.
Drivetrain: Precision and Control
The drivetrain of the Civic Type R is engineered for maximum driver engagement and control:
- 6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) with Rev-Match Control: Included. A hallmark of the Type R, the 6-speed manual transmission provides a direct connection to the engine. Rev-match control ensures smooth downshifts, enhancing both performance and driver enjoyment.
- Gear Ratios (1st to 6th, Reverse, Final Drive): Detailed gear ratios (provided in the original document) are specifically chosen to optimize acceleration and responsiveness at various speeds.
- Lightweight Single-Mass Flywheel: Included. Reduces rotational inertia for quicker engine response and revving.
- Helical Limited-Slip Differential: Included. This crucial component maximizes traction during cornering and acceleration, especially in front-wheel-drive vehicles, by distributing torque to the wheel with more grip.
Fuel Economy: Balancing Power and Efficiency
While performance is paramount, the Civic Type R still offers respectable fuel economy for its class:
- 6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) (City/Highway/Combined): 22 / 28 / 24 mpg. EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings provide a realistic expectation of fuel consumption in different driving conditions.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.4 gallons. A decent fuel tank size for a performance hatchback, allowing for a reasonable driving range.
- Required Fuel: Regular Unleaded (91 Octane Recommended). While regular unleaded fuel can be used, 91 octane premium fuel is recommended to unleash the engine’s full potential and ensure optimal performance.
Chassis: Track-Ready Handling
The chassis of the Civic Type R is meticulously tuned for exceptional handling and agility:
- Adaptive Damper System: Included. Continuously adjusts damping force based on driving conditions and driver inputs, optimizing ride comfort and handling performance.
- Dual-Axis MacPherson Strut Front Suspension: Included. This advanced front suspension design minimizes torque steer and enhances steering precision, crucial for a high-performance front-wheel-drive car.
- Multi-Link Rear Suspension: Included. Provides superior rear wheel control and stability, contributing to excellent handling balance.
- Dual-Pinion, Variable-Ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS): Included. Offers precise and responsive steering feel, with the variable ratio adjusting steering sensitivity based on speed and driving situation.
- Stabilizer Bar (front/rear): 29.0 mm x 5.0 mm (tubular) / 20.5 mm (solid). Thick stabilizer bars reduce body roll during cornering, enhancing handling sharpness.
- Steering Wheel Turns, Lock-to-Lock: 2.10. A quick steering ratio allows for rapid directional changes.
- Steering Ratio: 11.6: 1. Contributes to the car’s responsive steering feel.
- Turning Diameter, Curb-to-Curb: 39.9 ft. Provides an indication of the car’s maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Power-Assisted, Ventilated, Two-Piece Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes (front/rear): 13.8 in. / 12.0 in. Large, high-performance brakes ensure strong stopping power and fade resistance, essential for track use.
- Brembo® 4-Piston Aluminum Front Brake Calipers: Included. High-performance Brembo brakes further enhance braking performance and durability.
- Wheels: 19 x 9.5J Matte Black Wheels. Lightweight and strong wheels designed to handle the stresses of high-performance driving.
- Maximum-Performance Summer Tires: 265/30 R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. High-grip summer tires are crucial for maximizing handling and traction in warm weather conditions.
- Tire Repair Kit (TRK) with 24-Hour Assistance: Included. Provides a temporary solution for flat tires.
Dimensions and Weight: Optimized for Agility
The Civic Type R’s dimensions and weight are carefully considered for optimal performance and handling:
Exterior Dimensions:
- Wheelbase (in): 107.7
- Length (in): 180.9
- Height (in): 55.4
- Width (in): 74.4
- Ground Clearance (in): 4.8
- Track (in. front/rear): 64 / 63.5
Weight:
- Curb Weight: 3,188 lbs. A relatively light curb weight for a performance hatchback, contributing to agility and acceleration.
- Weight Distribution (front/rear): 62 / 38. Front-biased weight distribution is typical for front-wheel-drive cars.
Interior Dimensions:
- Headroom (front/rear) [in]: 39.3 / 37.1
- Legroom (front/rear) [in]: 42.3 / 37.4
- Shoulder Room (front/rear) [in]: 57 / 56
- Hiproom (front/rear) [in]: 54.3 / 48.9
- Cargo Volume (rear seat up) [cu. ft.]: 24.5
- Passenger Volume (cu. ft.): 99.0
Features: Safety, Technology, and Convenience
Beyond performance, the 2023 Civic Type R is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features:
Honda Sensing® Safety & Driver-Assistance Technology:
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
- Short Distance Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Blind Spot Information System
- Backing Out Support
- Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Safety and Driver Assistive Technology:
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACETM) Body Structure
- Advanced Front Airbags (i-SRS)
- SmartVent® Front Side Airbags
- Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor
- 3-Point Seat Belts at all Seating Positions
- Front 3-Point Seat Belts with Automatic Tensioning System
- Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
- Driver’s and Front Passenger’s Seat-Belt Reminder
- Child-Proof Rear Door Locks
- Auto High-Beam Headlights
Audio & Connectivity:
- Bose Premium Audio System with 12 Speakers, including Subwoofer
- 9-Inch Display Audio with High-Resolution Electrostatic Touch-Screen
- 10.2″ Digital Instrument Cluster
- Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™
- HondaLink®
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® Compatibility
- Wireless Android Auto™ Compatibility
- SiriusXM®
- HD Radio™
- USB Audio Interfaces (Front and Center Console)
- Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and Streaming Audio
- SMS Text Message Function
- Radio Data System (RDS)
- Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC)
- Wireless Charger
Comfort & Convenience:
- Type R Serial Number Plate
- Leather 18″-wrapped steering wheel
- Sport Pedals
- Aluminum Shift Knob
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control System
- Push Button Start
- Power Windows with Auto-Up/Down
- Power Door Locks
- Illuminated Controls
- Cruise Control
- Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column
- LED Pocket Light
- Center Console with Sliding Armrest
- Sliding Sunvisors
- Illuminated Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls
- Illuminated Vanity Mirrors
- Door-Pocket Storage Bins
- Remote Trunk Release
- Headlights-On Reminder
- Capless Fuel Filler
- Map Lights
- Rear-Seat Heater Ducts
- Floor Mats
- 12-Volt Power Outlet (front)
- Rear-Window Defroster with Timer
- Cargo Area Light
- Beverage Holders
Seating:
- Exclusively-Designed, High-Bolstered Sport Seats with Red/Black Suede-Effect Fabric
- Adjustable Front Seat-Belt Anchors
- Adjustable Rear Head Restraints
- 60/40 Split Fold-Down Rear Seatback
- Seating Capacity: 4
Exterior Features:
- Red Honda “H” Badges (front/rear)
- Type R badges (front/rear)
- LED Headlights with Auto-On/Off
- LED Brake Lights
- Underbody Spoiler Kit
- Gloss Black Wing Spoiler
- Aluminum Hood
- Center-Mounted, Triple Outlet Exhaust
- Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock®
- Gloss Black Fin-Type Roof-Mounted Antenna
- Rear Window Wiper/Washer with Heated Wiper Zone
- Security System with Remote Entry
- Variable Intermittent Windshield Wipers
- Gloss Black Power Side Mirrors with LED Turn Indicators
- Body-Colored Door Handles
- Push-to-Release Fuel Filler Door
Colors & Trims: Personalize Your Type R
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R is available in a range of striking colors:
Standard Exterior Colors:
- Rallye Red (R-513)
- Crystal Black Pearl (NH-731P)
Premium Exterior Colors:
- Championship White (NH-0)
- Sonic Gray Pearl (NH-887P)
- Boost Blue Pearl (B-637P)
Available Interior Color:
- Black/Red
Conclusion: The Definitive Performance Hatch
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R Specs reveal a vehicle meticulously engineered for driving enthusiasts. From its high-revving turbocharged engine and precise manual transmission to its track-tuned chassis and comprehensive feature set, the Civic Type R delivers an unparalleled driving experience in the hot hatchback segment. It’s a testament to Honda’s commitment to performance and a worthy successor to the Type R legacy.