Few performance labels stand out as much as Honda’s signature "Type R". Colored in undeniable racing red, the label stands for the brand’s roots in competition. The first Civic to grace the Type R nameplate was the EK9 back in 1997. In the U.S., we didn’t have access to the Type R experience until 20 years later with the FK8 generation.

The tenth-generation FK8 Type R received mixed signals from enthusiasts across the board. Some disliked the aggressive boy-racer aesthetic it could not separate itself from. Others became disappointed with the on-track performance, and constant cooling issues plaguing the high-strung Civic. With the 11th-generation Civic Type R, Honda promises a matured performance package. With refinements made across the board, is the Type R reborn? The future halo Civic looks good and hopes to perform even better.

The turbocharged K20C1 remains the sole engine option for the new Type R. Yet, Honda has promised that this is the most powerful Civic ever. Actually, the most powerful Honda-brand vehicle ever offered in the U.S.

Now with more response and power, power figures should exceed the 306 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 295 pound-feet of torque made by the outgoing Civic. Although not announced, expect Honda to make a statement by pushing as much power as possible. They won’t want their competition to be anywhere near their power figure.

The K20C1 is a hell of an engine and can produce 350 horsepower with minor modifications. It would be disappointing to see any less than a 15-percent increase in power for the latest model. You don’t want comparisons to a Corolla with a smaller and more efficient engine.

Yet, the new Type R promises that performance is its main focus this time around. Setting the new production car FWD track record at the legendary Suzuka Circuit in Japan, the 11th-gen Type R has something to prove. The performance Civic also endured strenuous Nürburgring testing and tuning. Honda is ensuring the Civic can thrive under pressure in the most rigorous environments.

The standard six-speed manual gearbox has also seen refinement, along with suspension and steering. The 11th-gen Type R is longer, lower, and wider than before. This allows 30mm wider 265 section-width tires all around with smaller 19" wheels. Less weight is the guaranteed recipe for success on the track. With Brembo brakes standard, this Type R ticks off all the key performance boxes.

With official fuel economy numbers unavailable, expect the 2023 Civic Type R to match or better the previous generation’s 22 MPG City and 28 MPG Highway.

The new design of the 11th-gen Type R provides a restrained look compared to the previous model. The sharp body lines of the FK8 Type R looked more like Hot Wheels than anything. Now, the Civic discerns itself from a lesser model with subtle classy design cues.

Seeing one of these on the road, there is still no doubt it’s a pure-bred Type R, even with the new styling. Keeping hatchback tradition for this generation was the right choice.

While less radical, aerodynamic performance has increased with less drag. The body lines are smooth and sleek with a new rear spoiler taking up less space with more efficiency. While some fake vents still sour the Type R’s function-first mindset, it’s still the fastest Civic ever.

Finally, a true red interior like a Type R deserves? While the exterior may not make your eyes pop, the interior sure will. This is a driver-focused interior. With a complete new redesign, signature red suede seats, carpet, and floor mats grace the cabin. It’s simple; if you don’t like red, the Civic Type R is not for you.

A serialized nameplate on the dash shows off the exclusivity of the Type R variant. The dashboard now carries the new horizontal honeycomb design seen on the front bumper grill. There is no neglect of important touch points. The red leather-stitched steering wheel, aluminum shift knob, and aluminum pedals are all exclusive to the Type R.

A new +R driving mode further emphasizes the performance focus of the Type R. A unique RPM display, rev indicator lights, and gear position indicator keep the driver focused on what’s important.

Honda’s LogR data logger and lap timer provide every performance figure even the most track-focused driver could ever want. With the ability to record and save lap times, the new Type R knows its purpose well.

While official price figures are still unavailable, we reference the previous model’s $37,895 MSRP. Expect the 2023 Type R to start around $40,000 if you can find one at MSRP. Price-gouging practices by dealerships on exclusive models are currently commonplace. Have no surprise to see the new Type R selling for $10-20k over sticker value. Is it worth it at that price? Not even close. Yet, certain JDM fans will do anything to get their hands on one. It’s a strange market.

Even within the niche performance hot hatch market, Honda has stiff competition. A scary reality called the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla exists. The Toyota provides 300 horsepower from a smaller, more efficient engine. Combined with all-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual for almost $10,000 less, it presents an undeniable package.

Those with European tendencies will consider the Volkswagen Golf R, though more expensive at $45,185. Considering markups, these models will have crossover shopping. If you spent more than $50,000 on your Type R, you should have bought a BMW M2.

Though not half the driver’s car, the Hyundai Veloster N is a quirky competitor that offers amazing value at its low relative price of $33,595 MSRP. Yet, if you bleed Honda red, it is unlikely any other vehicle will fill that void. Back and better than ever, the 2023 Type R promises to be the best Civic to ever hit the market.

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