The 2021 Honda Civic Type R has finally touched down in Australia sporting the same updates as in other markets. One of the key upgrades made to the 2021 Civic Type R is new software for the Adaptive Damper System that evaluates road conditions ten times faster than before, resulting in improved damper reactions for better handling and ride quality.
Additionally, the rear bushings for the lower B-arm have been stiffened to provide an eight per cent improvement in lateral loads and the front features new compliance bushings and new lower-friction ball joints that trigger sharper steering feel. Honda’s engineers have also improved braking performance with the fitment of new two-piece floating front brake discs and brake pads with a more fade-resistant pad material.
Powering the class-leading hot hatch is a
2.0-liter turbocharged VTEC four-cylinder that pumps out 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque. While these figures are the same as previous
model years, the 2021 model’s larger grille decreases coolant temperature by up
to 10 degrees Celsius in high-demand situations, such as track days. Coupled to
this engine is a six-speed manual transmission with a rev-matching function and
a new teardrop-style gear knob.
New for 2021 is an Active Sound Control
feature that enhances the engine note during Sport and +R modes. The hot hatch
also launches with the new Honda LogR performance datalogger that combines the
car’s onboard computer and sensors with a smartphone application to help
drivers monitor and record various performance parameters.
In addition to receiving a new gear knob,
the cabin also includes an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel. The Racing Blue
paint pictured is also a new addition to the range and joins Rally Red, Crystal
Black and Championship White. Aussie pricing for the 2021 Civic Type R starts
at AU$ 54,990 (US$ 41,797) before on-road costs and delivery fees, representing a
AU$ 3,000 (US$ 2,280) price hike over the outgoing model.
