2020 Honda Civic Type R pricing & specification

Honda Australia has announced the pricing and specification for its updated 2020 Honda Civic Type R ahead of its local showroom debut on October 1.

Focusing firmly on performance the MY2020 model brings a number of changes and improvements to the Type R, including upgrades to its ride and handling, braking performance, engine cooling, as ell as Honda’s first-ever performance LogR data-logging application, which is exclusive to the Civic Type R.

First shown on the Civic Type R Limited Edition, the LogR system combines the Type R’s onboard computer and sensors with a smartphone app that allows drivers to monitor and record a variety of performance parameters.

The LogR provides three main functions:

• Performance Monitoring which provides vehicle information to the driver on the infotainment screen.
• Log Mode which records lap times on the track to enable drivers to improve their driving skills in a circuit environment.
• Auto Score, which encourages smooth day-to-day driving by monitoring braking, acceleration, steering and straight line driving and provide a score based on the smoothness algorithm.

Under the bonnet, power from the 2.0-litre VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine remains unchanged, churning out 228kW of power and 400Nm of torque. Power is transferred to the front wheels via a close-ratio six-speed manual with rev-matching function.

Honda says drivers can better harness the power, as the software in the active dampers has been tweaked for improved ride and handling.

There are also new rubber bushings in the suspension control arms to provide greater lateral grip, while low-friction ball-joints have improved steering characteristics.

For improved brake performance, the 2020 Civic Type R features an upgraded braking system with new two-piece floating front discs and new brake pads with a more fade-resistant pad material. The new brakes are said to lower unsprung weight by 2.3kg.

Brake pedal feel has also been improved with reduced brake pedal stroke compared to the outgoing model.

The larger front grille along with a thinner grille beam delivers a 13 per cent larger air intake opening, while the redesigned radiator core contributes to a 10-degree decrease in engine temperature under high-load conditions, such as track driving.

The larger front grille meant the Civic Type R suffered from front-end lift at speed. To counter this, a slightly deeper front under-bumper air dam with new ribbed sections on each end increase downforce.

Changes inside includes an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and a new teardrop-style aluminium gear knob which includes a 90kg internal counterweight to help improve shift feel and accuracy.

There’s also a revised 7.0-inch touchscreen with integrated ventilation system controls and hard keys for commonly used functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard.

The new 2020 Honda Civic Type R is priced from $54,990 plus on-road costs, a $3,000 increase over the outgoing model.