2020 Honda Civic Type R: Performance, Safety Upgrades Promise Hotter Hot Hatch
Honda has spent the last two years rolling out light updates to most versions of its popular Civic line, but the Type R has been left out — until now. The automaker announced that the hot hatch is receiving a light refresh for the 2020 model year that includes performance upgrades and more standard safety features.
Outside, the 2020 Type R has a larger front grille opening and will be available in a new, Type R-exclusive Boost Blue exterior paint color.
On the performance front, Honda says it’s adding new two-piece brake rotors and new brake pads designed to reduce fade and improve high-speed braking efficiency. Other updates include revised dampers, stiffer rear bushings and modifications to the front suspension.
Its powertrain carries over: The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is good for 306 horsepower and 295 pounds-feet of torque; it’s paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
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In safety, the news for 2020 is big. The Type R is finally getting the Honda Sensing safety system standard, bringing it in line with the rest of the Civic lineup. The suite of safety and driver-assistance features includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-centering steering at higher speeds and adaptive cruise control that operates all the way to a stop.
The 2020 Type R made its debut this week in Japan, and Honda said additional information about the U.S.-spec version, including pricing, will be available closer to the vehicle’s on-sale date later this year.
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