The updated version of the Honda Civic Type R will be the quickest front wheel drive hot hatch available to UK drivers – with a top speed of 167mph.
Thanks to an "almost completely flat underside", an aerodynamic body shape and a rear diffuser, the new Type R will boast “exceptional high speed stability and high levels of downforce”, according to the Japanese car giant.
Rumour has it that the Type R will produce around 300bhp from its 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine, although exact data is yet to be released. Teaser images of the car's dials reveal a 7,000rpm redline, suggesting that the 300bhp figure could well be an accurate estimate.
The Type R will also feature an Italian-built Brembo brake set-up, comprising four-piston calipers and 350mm front brake discs.
Despite the fact that the car has yet to appear on production lines, Honda has said 100 orders have been taken for the Type R in the UK already. It has also not yet appeared in any motor show; Geneva will be its first, on March 3.
The new car will be built in Honda's Swindon plant, securing many UK jobs – both in direct manufacture and in supplier-side operations.
The Swindon plant has built 12,000 Civic Type Rs to date. The UK remains the factory’s biggest market, although it has exported cars to locations as far away as Japan and Australia.
Those among our vehicle recovery customers keen to find out more can register their interest at http://www.honda.co.uk/cars/campaigns/2014/heist/
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