The new Honda Civic Type R means the new TCR Type R race car is coming. Seen here in camouflage for the first time, Honda is promising a proper debut in 2023 before hitting the track in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge.
Of course there’s no mystery about the road version of the Civic Type R. Honda is launching the turbocharged hot hatch in July 2022, though we won’t get details on the powertrain until late August. The Type R TCR is clearly based on the same production FL5 car, although it brings significant changes to the exterior for better downforce, stability, cooling and cornering power. At this early stage, Honda isn’t ready to share details about the race car just yet, but the teaser image below provides a glimpse of what’s to come.
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It’s impossible to miss the aggressive cut-outs behind the rear wheels and the huge wings at the back. There’s another big spoiler up front, and Alcon brakes are visible behind the wheels. The side skirts give the impression the car is sitting on the ground, and of course it will ride lower thanks to the suspension system which is tuned for races. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine will also get a racing upgrade, along with the transmission. The interior is race-ready with a multi-channel driver display, additional driver cooling and FIA approval for safety.
Honda Performance Development (HPD) and JAS Motorsports are responsible for its creation. This is the same team that created the previous generation TCR Type R which successfully campaigned with multiple race and championship wins. The 2023 model already has three teams signed up for action with IMSA in North America – HART, LA Honda World and the Victor Gonzales Racing Team (VGRT).
“The Civic Type R is one of Honda’s most iconic and desirable cars,” said HPD Commercial Manager John Whiteman. “Being an icon and a race car worthy of global homologation, it’s no surprise that the TCR is one of HPD’s most popular cars. We at HPD are extremely proud to continue our partnership with JAS and offer the Honda Civic Type R FL5 TCR to North America. in 2023.”
Full details of the new TCR Civic Type R along with its price will be announced in the first quarter of 2023. Rambling About Cars podcast for winners of different natures at the 2022 Motor1.com Star Awards.
