Following its unveiling at the Tokyo Auto
Salon last month, Honda has staged the U.S. debut of the 2020 Civic Type R at
the Chicago Auto Show. Looking instantly recognizable, the model has a revised
grille which allows for improved engine cooling. Additional changes are
limited, but the hot hatch also has a revised color palette that now includes
Boost Blue.
Moving into the cabin, drivers will find a
new Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel. It’s joined by a new shifter which
features a restyled knob and shorter throws. The Type R also gains the Honda
Sensing suite of driver assistance systems. The company didn’t go into
specifics, but we can expect Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning,
Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation and Lane Keeping Assist.
Motivation is provided by a turbocharged
2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque. It is connected to a six-speed manual transmission
which sends power to the front wheels via a limited-slip differential. While
the engine carries over, the 2020 Civic Type R now has Active Sound Control.
It’s an engine sound enhancement system which adjusts depending on the selected
drive mode.
The suspension sees a host of changes
including updated dampers for better ride comfort and stiffer rear bushings for
improved grip. There’s also “revisions
to the front suspension and steering [system] for even better steering feel.”
The car has been
equipped with new brake pads and two-piece rotors. Honda says the changes help to reduce fade
and improve high-speed braking efficiency. The 2020 Honda Civic Type R will go
on sale this winter and full details will be announced closer to launch.