More Civic News: Type-R Prototype and Civic Racer

Sue Jeong

Could Type-R Prototype Be CSX Type-S?

Following the launch of the European-market Civic Type-R in Paris (see “Honda Brings Back Type-R With European Civic”, September 18, 2006), Honda has just announced another variant of the Type-R for its domestic market. The Civic Type-R Prototype is based off the Japanese Honda Civic, which, like our North American Civic Sedan features a multi-link rear suspension and a proper trunk, but in contrast gets a slightly less futuristic nose and taillight design. In terms of its appearance, the Type-R Prototype is finished in the hallmark Type-R colors - Championship White paint with black accents, and an aggressive body kit.

Another difference between the European Type-R and the Japanese Type-R comes from the power department. Though both cars feature the same 2.0-liter DOHC I-VTEC engine, the Prototype pumps out 220+ horsepower, where the Type-R hatch makes 200. It has been hinted that the production version of the Type-R Prototype could become the Type-S variant of Acuras Canadian-market CSX. The CSX in itself is more or less identical to the Japanese Civic, sharing the same front clip (headlamps, grille, bumper), and the same taillights and trunk lid. If the car were capable of producing 220 horsepower, it would be enough to separate it from the standard CSXs 150 horsepower, RSX-derived engine, and could potentially act as a successor to the soon to be discontinued RSX Type-S.

Rather than showcasing the Civic Type-R Prototype on a stand, or at a special presentation, Honda has chosen to show the dynamic side of the car by using it as the official (red flag) car for this years F1 Japan Grand Prix during the event. The F1 race runs at the Suzuka Circuit on October 6 through 8 (yes, this weekend). Honda plans to have a production version of this car on the road by spring of next year.

Where Honda has produced one Civic to pace, its also introduced one designed to race. Italy-based JAS Motorsports, Hondas official partner in customer racing support, worked with Honda to create a race-ready Civic Type-R. The racer is a non-road legal vehicle, designed to compete in FIA GrN, GrA and GrR specifications, for 2007. The powerplant of the racer produces 200 horsepower, just like the production model, though, JAS extensively tested and re-developed the motor with re-profiled camshafts and other components for race use. These parts have been endurance tested for durability in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring race.

Aside from the engine, the JAS Civic Type-R has all sorts of other goodies found in proper racing cars. The six-speed gearbox has been upgraded to a sequential unit, and the drivetrain has a reinforced driveshaft, plus an advanced limited slip differential with adjustable preload forces. Underneath, the suspension, springs, brakes and shocks have all been replaced for race-grade components, the interior gutted for a carbon-fiber dash, door panels and floor panels, plus a roll cage for safety. All in all, the JAS Civic Type-R racer should be a force to be reckoned with on the track.