Honda is Already Working on an Updated Civic Type R
The 2017 Honda Civic Type R was only just introduced, but the Japanese automaker is already working on an updated version of the hot hatchback.
Our spy photographers caught a camouflaged Civic Type R prototype running around with a slightly modified front end and different rear fascia. The changes here are subtle, limited to a new pair of front side intake vents and a slightly redesigned rear fascia.
The interior of the updated Civic Type R may receive small changes as well, such as an updated version of Honda Connect infotainment system.
As is common with mid-cycle updates, the slightly revamped Civic Type R could also receive new exterior and interior colors and options, although this test prototype wears the Type R’s recognizable white exterior and red interior.
SEE ALSO: 2017 Honda Civic Type R Review
Honda has previously said it’s open to introducing different variants of the Type R, including a version with more horsepower and a version “focused more on the grand touring aspect” of driving, in order to keep customers interested and expand the vehicle’s appeal. It’s possible that this prototype is a development mule for either of these proposed model variants.
“We’re hoping that by gradually putting out more [variants] that we’ll be able to maintain a more stable sales volume,” Hideki Matsumoto, chief engineer for the Civic, told Automotive News in an interview last year.
Stay tuned for more information on this curious Civic Type R test mule as development continues.
Discuss this story on our Honda Civic Forum.
Sam McEachern holds a diploma in journalism from St. Clair College in Windsor, Ontario, and has been covering the automotive industry for over 5 years. He conducts reviews and writes AutoGuide's news content. He's a die-hard motorsports fan with a passion for performance cars of all sorts.
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It looks like they are getting rid of that square fake vent panel that a lot of people didn't like and replacing them with something with more angles and dips.
I wish they'd change the styling. No matter how great a drive this car is I can't get past the looks, especially that park bench spoiler. The Ford Focus RS and Volkswagen Golf R both look more grown up.