Updated 2020 Honda Civic Type R Unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon

The 2020 Honda Civic Type R made its world debut last week at the Tokyo Auto Salon.

The new model year brings a number of changes and improvements such as revised styling, improved aerodynamic performance, and the addition of standard Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive technology.

Exterior design enhancements include a new larger front grille opening for improved engine cooling, as well as a new, Type R-exclusive “Boost Blue” colour.

In the cabin, drivers can expect added refinement, thanks to a new Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and a new shifter with a restyled knob and shorter shift throws.

The big news, however, is that the 2020 Civic Type R adds the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, marking the first time that Honda Sensing will be available as standard equipment on all Civic models and trims.

Also new are the two-piece brake rotors and new brake pads designed to reduce fade and improve high-speed braking efficiency, updated dampers for better ride comfort, stiffer rear bushings for better grip, and the modified front suspension which promise to offer reduced friction and improved steering feel.

Under the hood, the 2020 Civic Type R continues to draw power from a race-bred 2.0-liter direct-injected and turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with VTEC valvetrain putting out a peak 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque, with power to the front wheels delivered through a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential.

As before, drivers can choose between three driving modes – Comfort, Sport, and +R – that vary suspension firmness, steering and throttle response.

Another new addition for 2020 is the Active Sound Control feature, which modifies interior sound in concert with chosen drive mode.

That being said, more information about the 2020 Civic Type R will be available later this year.

Meanwhile, check out our review of the current Civic Type R here.