It appears increasingly likely that Honda will start selling an entry-level Civic Type R model in the U.S. for the 2018 model year. The Truth About Cars has uncovered NHTSA certification papers which American Honda recently filed. The papers list the current Civic Type R, exclusively available in Touring guise, under the model code FK8G7.

Interestingly, the papers show a second model, simply listed as ‘Type R’ with the same engine and 6-speed manual transmission of the Civic Type R Touring but under the FK8G3 model code. These details mimic information which first emerged in April, solidifying reports that Honda is looking to make the hot hatch just that little bit more affordable.

At this stage, it is difficult to know what the Japanese automaker intends on removing from the Civic Type R Touring to make a more affordable version. However, it is probable that they’ll be smaller wheels and more affordable tires, simplified seats, a cheaper audio system and potentially, no towering rear wing.

Prices for the current Civic Type R Touring start at US$ 34,775 and it seems probable that the no-frills version will be priced closer to the US$ 30,000 mark.