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Well, atleast there is some offical press on the car now...
Well, it all sounds great, but is it really any better than the American Si counterpart? I know I've brought that point up over and over again, but generally speaking, is it really that better?
Kinda I suppose... To answer my own question, the biggest upside to the Type-R is the hatchback design, which looks much better in Type-R guise. The added functionality of the larger rear is nice, but again, how much better is it going to be over the coupe?
...Either way, I'll stick to my VW guns here and go for the GTI in most circumstances. It may be a bit slower, but the higher levels of refinement and the additional "balance" of the car overall makes a strong case for sale.
That said, the Mazdaspeed 3 could change the game entirely...
LLN.comHonda today unveiled the 2007 Civic Type R, a high-performance version of the Civic hatchback for the European and Asian markets. Referred to by Honda as a "superhatch," the new Type R continues to be powered by the naturally-aspirated, high-revving 2.0-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine but the unit has been significantly reworked to improve responsiveness using a new balancer shaft and drive-by-wire throttle control. VTEC variable valve timing and VTC variable inlet camshaft technology continue to underpin the engine structure. Further development of the Type R unit means more useable torque, as the switch to high-lift, long duration valve timing (the cam change) now takes place at a lower 5,200rpm, and continues all the way to 8,000rpm. Max output is now 201 horsepower at 8,000 rpm, compared to 200 horsepower at 7,400 rpm. Acceleration to 62 mph takes 6.6 seconds identical to the previous car.
Like the Type S, its rear track is 20mm wider than that of the 5-door model, but otherwise damper, bush and spring characteristics are all unique to Type R.
Broad 225/40 ZR18 tyres provide added grip, while a 15mm reduction in ride height further reduces body roll. Firmer steering, a quicker ratio and stiffer steering box mountings all provide pin-sharp responses to steering wheel input, while the fuel tank's central location beneath the cabin floor helps to lower the centre of gravity and reduces the body's inertia moment.
Extra strengthening has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings, while the lower cross member (just ahead of the engine bay) provides greater rigidity. The overall result is a more predictable chassis, with levels of responsiveness and stability that are some of the best in class. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced ride comfort, so the Type R is easier to use in all conditions and on all surfaces.
Well, it all sounds great, but is it really any better than the American Si counterpart? I know I've brought that point up over and over again, but generally speaking, is it really that better?
Kinda I suppose... To answer my own question, the biggest upside to the Type-R is the hatchback design, which looks much better in Type-R guise. The added functionality of the larger rear is nice, but again, how much better is it going to be over the coupe?
...Either way, I'll stick to my VW guns here and go for the GTI in most circumstances. It may be a bit slower, but the higher levels of refinement and the additional "balance" of the car overall makes a strong case for sale.
That said, the Mazdaspeed 3 could change the game entirely...