Honda is surprising the Paris motor show, revealing a concept pointing to the next Civic Type R performance hatchback.
The Type R Prototype is based on the tenth-generation Civic, which also debuts at the show. The production version of the Civic Type R will launch in the second half of 2017 as a range-topper.
Performance details have yet to be revealed, though the car is expected to use an updated version of the 2.0-litre petrol engine of 310hp in the current Type R, that only went on sale in 2015.
The new model boasts the more aggressive body styling that has become typical of previous Type R models for both styling and aerodynamic purposes.
Notable at the front end is a winged splitter in carbon fibre and slatted ducts on either side of the bumper, with diamond-mesh inserts in the air intakes.
A new air vent is added to the nose, above which sits the red H badge, while the bonnet also gains an extra air scoop.
Additional body mouldings include carbon fibre side skirts, while the car sits on 20-inch piano black alloy wheels with trademark red detailing, and 245-section tyres, squeezed under larger arches.
There are three exhaust tailpipes – the central one of smaller diameter and in red – under a large carbon fibre rear diffuser, while the equally trademark rear wing is retained.
Honda says that the next Type R, built like the rest of the Civic range in Swindon, UK, will be exported to global markets including for the first time as a Honda the USA.
