Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
IN order for the 2017 Civic Type R customers to try out their vehicle’s remarkable driving performance, Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) recently hosted an exclusive event held in Clark International Speedway, where select members of the motoring beat, together with 45 owners, attended the first-ever Civic Type R Track Experience. Truth be told, the vehicle’s overwhelming reception from the enthusiasts resulted to the reservation of the initial 100 units only after 48 hours from its official release last year.
None other than HCPI President and General Manager Noriyuki Takakura humbly shared the great news, including all the various automotive awards. “And it is for this reason, that Honda in the Philippines is now highly considering to bring another batch of the Civic Type R in the future,” he revealed.
The latest generation’s radically sporty exterior boasts notable design elements all over the frame, which are intended for its high-performance character. All those sharp profiles, roof fins, carbon fiber chin, side skirts and rear diffusers (all with red line accent), including the rear spoiler, contributed to the remarkable aero dynamic frame. The wider and athletic stance, meantime, was emphasized by the extended arcs along with the 20-inch Type R Berlina Black alloy wheels wrapped in 245/30 series Continental tires.
As for the interior, the driver-centric civic cockpit was further enhanced by several components exclusive to the Type R model. These are the instrument cluster, three-spoke leather draped helm, titanium shift knob, serial number plate, bucket seats, floor mats and sports pedals, among others. Of course, one of the remarkable electronic features is the selectable driving modes, such as “Comfort,” “Sport” and the extreme “+R” settings. By simply toggling the switch, these modes specifically adjust the adaptive dampers, steering force and throttle response in order to alter the vehicle dynamics suited for the situation. In this particular event, +R mode was the default setting.
Perhaps considered as the new-generation Type R’s pinnacle of performance, is its new 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine. This four-banger is capable of generating 305 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and a massive 400 N-m of maximum torque available between 2,500 to 4,500 rpm range. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission with electronic rev match control system, that outstanding output is then transferred to the to the front wheels through an exceptionally responsive limited-slip differential (LSD).
Subjecting Honda’s ultimate racing machine in a series of comprehensive and technical run-through inside the race track was the best way to showcase its full capacity.
Braking and evading
WHILE the other owners were doing slalom drills with their respective vehicles, we utilized two HCPI test units and accompanied by instructors for the series of acceleration and braking with evading tests. Onboard for the first time, the seating position was more to the sports car and racing configuration. You can absolutely feel the firm and snug fit of the seat and the chunky grip of the helm.
During the initial launch, the vehicle effortlessly achieved a short-stopping distance after a quick spurt from first gear. But during the succeeding take-off, the turbocharged motor displayed its acceleration might at second gear. When braking was applied, it decelerated abruptly and went to a full stop easily. The next assessment demonstrated the mechanism’s ability avoid potential collision coming from a high speed by braking and evading at the same time. Surprisingly, the moment forceful braking was applied with a quick maneuver, the vehicle didn’t even pose any untoward movements at all.
The entire immersion only proved that having a whopping 350-mm ventilated and cross-drilled front brakes discs paired with four-piston Brembo Calipers and 305-mm solid rear disc with calipers, along with other electronic controls, will definitely give you peace of mind. As long as you’re engaging it at the right time, of course, all the brakes, combined with the suspension set up and electronic functions, will aid you to keep the vehicle in total control with confidence.
Circuit lap time
MEANWHILE, it was time for everybody to experience the Civic Type R on the track. Given the vehicles high output, the instructors took time to carefully explain the markers for braking, acceleration and turning points more specifically for entering and exiting corners.
Divided into groups, we proceeded with the guided lap following a pace car up front. Soon, we were instructed to step on it and speed increments swiftly soared on stretches and wide open bends. But realizing that the burst of speed was way too fast to anticipate each marker, opting to take it easy was necessary during the run. From there, coming in and out on apexes became more manageable as the car still amazingly corresponds to any adjustment.
The dual piston variable-ratio electric steering, meantime, along with the front unique dual-axis lower-arm-type and rear multilink suspension setup paired with variable dampers, demonstrated superb and balanced handling. Cornering was absolutely stable with almost the absence of any body roll. In fact, even when missing out on several markers, it was untroublesome to get back on track in order to tackle the next one. The crisp and responsive steering, on the other hand, amazingly corresponded to every stroke and maneuver to the direction you want to go. Shifting was also smooth and even adjusted engine revs automatically while downshifting.
But onboard as a passenger to a more determined driver was another story. Even when pushed hard, the car still managed to easily sliced through high-speed curves and hairpins. Grabbing on to something was the only thing to worry about in order to hold on.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino