Hardcore performance!!!!! The exterior appearance of the Civic Type-R leaves nothing to the imagination: it is built for speed. The large rear spoiler and diffuser provide extra downforce while at the front, the sculpted grille and bumper enhance aerodynamic performance. A by-product of all this aerodynamic paraphernalia is a vehicle that looks decisively hardcore and, as a consequence, its styling may polarise opinion. But that’s okay, because the Civic Type-R is a performance machine above all else. And, it’s not for the faint-hearted. To match its overt boy racer looks, the Type-R packs a mighty punch with its newly developed 2.0-litre turbocharged VTEC engine. Enthusiasts are in for a treat with 228 kW and 400 Nm powering the front wheels through a short-throw 6-speed manual transmission. The rev-happy Type-R hits the red line at 7 000 rpm with peak power attained at 6 500 rpm. Maximum torque comes on tap from only 2 500 rpm. Using a mono-scroll turbocharger in conjunction with VTEC technology, the Civic Type-R is capable of achieving 100 kph from standstill in 5.7 seconds with a significant top speed of 270 kph. For enthusiasts, the +R mode button is an exciting addition to the new Civic Type-R. With the +R mode activated, the illumination of the instrument dials changes from white to glowing red and the Type-R perks up for maximum performance. The engine becomes noticeably more responsive and the torque-mapping is altered to allow for more grunt at lower engine speeds. The steering also becomes somewhat heavier and the suspension firms up in anticipation. A host of track tools such a G-force meter and lap and sprint timers are available to the driver as well.