Driving New Honda Civic R 2022 in Snow
1"Driving feel comes first. The legendary R badge returns for the 11th generation Civic."
The sixth version of the Civic Type R was introduced one year and three months after the world premiere of the base model, the 11th-generation "FL" Civic, which was introduced as the "Sokai (Exhilarating) Civic."
The Type R is based on the 5-door hatchback configuration. Compared to previous standard models, the FL has done away with flashy tuning car stylings. While it retains the essential elements of a sports model, such front and rear aero parts and widened fenders, it has adopted simpler, refined design.
The power unit is the definitive Type R engine, a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 K20C unit, which after an overhaul of its turbo system and other improvements, now produces 9.9 HP and 14.5 ft-lb more than the previous model for a maximum output of 325.4 HP and 309.6 ft-lb of torque. The engine ECU map has also been meticulously tuned to improve throttle response and low-end torque.
The suspension uses an evolution of the same 4-wheel independent Adaptive Damper System first introduced in the 2015 FK2 model Civic Type R. On the FL5, the system controls not only pitch and roll, but also introduces considerations for the vertical acceleration of unsprung components. Through this system, Honda aims to offer the same direct handling feeling on the smooth surfaces of the racing circuit as it does on uneven public roads.
Additionally, by linking the car with their smartphone, drivers can review their drive data and share videos of their trips allowing them to enjoy the Type R experience even when they're not behind the wheel.
Brand Central (GT7)
If you like sports cars at all, you can't help but get excited at the unveiling of[1] a new Honda Type R. I actually got to test-drive the predecessor of this model—the FK8 Civic Type R. The track was a high-speed winding road, with sharp corners that seemed to distort my field of vision. But in spite of the strong vertical and lateral Gs, I was able to brake hard into each corner with ease. I remember thinking to myself, 'Wow! The Honda Civic Type R is really next-level stuff!' But just when I thought the Civic Type R had hit its peak... Out came this FL5, which far surpassed the FK8, both technically and in terms of driving experience.