Honda to Release a Lighter, Recalibrated Limited Edition Civic Type R

In 2017, Honda claimed the title for fastest lap from a front-wheel-drive at Germany’s Nürburgring Nordschleife racetrack with the Civic Type R, setting a record time of seven minutes and 43.8 seconds. Unfortunately for the Japanese automaker, the record was subsequently broken by French company Renault with its Megan RS Trophy-R, completing the lap a full four seconds faster. Now, in the hopes of reclaiming this title, Honda has reworked the Civic, bringing out a limited edition version — which will also be available for the US consumer market — to challenge the legendary track once again.

Based on the updated 2020 Type R, the 2021 Civic Type R Limited Edition unfortunately does not produce more power, as its equipped with the same 2.0-liter turbo-four engine, which pushes out 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. However, the Japanese automaker managed to make improvements elsewhere, such as a recalibrated steering system, dampers specially tuned for the car, and upgraded Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. It’s also made lighter than its predecessor by reducing the weight of its wheels, sound-proofing materials, and the outright removal of various unnecessary components. The US model will weigh 46 pounds lighter than the original Type R, while the European version will be another 30 pounds lighter than its American counterpart due to the further removal of parts like its audio system or air-conditioning.

As for availability, Honda will be producing a total of 1,000 units of the Limited Edition Type R, with 600 heading Stateside, 200 for domestic release in Japan, 100 for Europe, and another 100 for Canada. All of them will be dressed in a racing-ready Phoenix Yellow, with a release date some time this summer. Official pricing information will be announced closer to its release date.

Elsewhere in the automotive world, Lotus has offered a closer look at its production-ready Evija electric hypercar.