Just when you thought Honda was done with the Civic Type R after the announcement on the subtly updated 2020MY, the Japanese carmaker goes ahead and announces the Limited Edition special, due to arrive later this year. Billed as the “ultimate track-focus Type R”,  it will be offered in a limited run of just 600 units in the States with another 100 examples earmarked for Europe. You can have it any color you want, just as long as it’s the new to the series, Phoenix Yellow (called ‘Sunlight Yellow’ across the pond) .

We’ll break the changes into two parts, one for the U.S.-spec model and the other for the Euro variant, as they slightly differ. Starting with the American model, Honda says it shaved 20.9 kg over the regular model thanks to the new lightweight BBS wheels (18 lb. total unsprung weight reduction) and by reducing sound deadening materials and removing features such as the rear wiper, tonneau cover, and rear heater ducts.   


The Euro model is said to be a whopping 47 kg lighter than a Type R in GT specification – all while retaining its rear seats, unlike other track-focused hatchbacks like Renault’s Megane RS Trophy R. In addition to the changes made to the American model, the European Type R Limited Edition is stripped away of comfort features such as the infotainment and air conditioning systems.

On both sides of the Atlantic, owners of the Civic Type R Limited Edition will get a revised chassis with specially tuned dampers and a recalibrated steering for improved control and feedback. According to Honda, all these changes will make the special Type R the “most dynamic front wheel drive hatchback available” on the market.


Besides the exclusive yellow color, the Limited Edition is adorned with dark chrome badges, a contrasting gloss black paint on the roof, wing mirrors and intake vent on the hood, and an individually numbered serial plate denoting the vehicle’s original country of sale.

Honda’s North American arm has not disclosed any information or photos of the interior, but it’s safe to assume that it will get the same red bucket seats and red Alcantara steering wheel complemented by the teardrop gear knob as its Euro sibling.