2020 Honda Civic Type R Debuts at the Chicago Auto Show
A brand new color, subtle new styling, suspension updates, and upgraded stoppers make the 2020 Civic Type R better than ever.
Honda has some news for enthusiasts at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. We were on the scene with Honda as they announced the 2020 updates for their flagship Civic Type R. In fact, the mechanical and visual refreshing is the first update for the Type R since it hit the US market in 2017.
Mechanically, there’s an updated suspension. Dampers have been revised in order to make the car just a little bit more comfortable on a daily basis. As well, bushings are now stiffer for improved feedback through the steering, as well as better grip. Overall, the changes lead to better road-holding and improved ride quality.
Brakes have also been revised. While not larger, the components themselves have been greatly upgraded. The rotors are now a floating-rotor design. This helps dissipate heat and decrease fade at elevated driving speeds. As well, the pads are also new and assist the floating rotors in dissipating heat, a known issue Type R engineers needed to address. With these mechanical changes, Honda is paying attention to how its customers use their cars, and most notably how they stand up to track use.
Outside, only subtle changes have been made, but they are important. A revised grille allows more airflow and aids in cooling. The lower grilles no longer contain honeycomb, but instead are now matte black panels. They keep the aggressive look of the Type R and retain fog lights as well. Out back, the bumper has seen some subtle styling changes, too. It keeps the Type R’s signature triple outlet exhaust. Of course, you’ll have noticed the new color, too. Honda calls it Boost Blue Pearl.
You might also notice the totally blacked-out windows. That’s right, we weren’t allowed to see inside. Worry not, Honda will announce the interior updates soon. Honda did not give us any information on what the changes would be, whether subtle or extreme. As well, Honda did not announce official MSRP pricing. Speaking to a Honda representative, we were told, “expect pricing to increase a small amount as it normally does year-to-year.” With that non-answer from Honda, we anticipate their future updates on the interior and pricing.
Photos by Patrick Morgan for Honda-Tech
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