After five long years the new Honda Civic Type R is here! The hatch was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show two days ago, thus giving all fans (me as well) the pleasure of viewing one of the most anticipated cars. And the question is simple: Is the wait worth it?  I'm going to talk about this in a minute after previewing what's new in the Type R.

First and foremost, the red ‘H' badged car will be driven by the 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, which finds its world-first application here. In fact, in Type R's 22 years of history this is the most extreme and high-performing engine used.

Regarding the details, the maximum power that this unit can produce is 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm, and the optimum torque is 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. And if you are a Honda fan than you'll definitely know that these numbers are higher than any previous ones. Although I did expect more from the performance of this car, it is still satisfactory for a front-wheel driven hatch.

The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).

In terms of styling we see the typical Civic Type R form, but there are some details that need to be mentioned and I find very intriguing. First, the car was subject to substantial aerodynamic analysis and testing. As a result the development of the car continued via computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing, and later with extensive prototype testing on the road and on track.

Rear diffuser and rear wing have been both redesigned as well as the wide front splitter and deep side skirts. Heat is managed via the enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper, while the airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels.

Speaking of wheels, the car rides on lightweight 19-inch alloys fitted with 235/35R19 tyres that were specially made for the Type R. Brembo brake package is what takes car for the stopping power of the car. At the front there are four-piston calipers with 350 mm drilled discs.

Besides the Championship White exterior color, this Civic will be also offered in the pearlescent Crystal Black, metallic Polished Metal and Brilliant Sporty Blue as well as in Milano Red.

In terms of interior, we have nothing much different than the previous generation model. And this is where I am little disappointed, because I have obviously expected more. Take for instance the gear lever knob which is made from machined aluminium alloy. The black sports seats and the red double stitching are also present.

Nevertheless two innovative things about this Honda immediately grab the attention. The first one is the ‘+R'button and the second is the GT Pack. The ‘+R' button increases the response of the chassis and drivetrain systems. As a result the driver will get better driving experience. But before we test the car we can't say if this is true.

Also exclusive to the Type R is the GT Pack which gives those needed individual enhancements. Here are included front red highlights and rear splitters, rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors, and many more.

Honda Civic Type R (2016)
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Video Source: YouTube 

Source: Honda