2023 Honda Civic Type R arrived in Vietnam: What’s on offer

Touted as the most powerful Type R ever, the all-new sixth-gen Civic Type R made its global debut back in July. And now almost after three months, the latest iteration of the legendary hot hatch has landed on ASEAN shores. 

The first country which received the new Civic Type R in the Asia-Oceania region is none other than Vietnam. However, this came as a surprise to many as the Type R has always made its ASEAN debut in countries like Malaysia and Thailand because of its immense popularity in these markets. Well, Honda may have several reasons to choose Vietnam, including - the brand holds 80% of Vietnam’s motorcycle market; the same distributor for motorcycle and car divisions; the country has become the new investment hot spot in the region; or more.

Honda Vietnam introduced the new Civic Type R at the ongoing 2022 Vietnam Motor Show and is now accepting pre-orders for the car. It offers imported CBU from Japan in limited quantities. Pricing will be announced at the end of the year with deliveries scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2023.

Let’s check out what the Vietnam-spec Civic Type R has on offer -

Powertrain

The ultimate Type R comes equipped with a revamped 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four mill kicking out a maximum power of 315 hp at 6,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 420 Nm between 2,600 and 4,000 rpm. This is almost 9 hp and 20 Nm more than the output levels of the older mill. Along with the higher output levels, the revamped drivetrain offers an overall better response, says Honda. Among the main updates are a new turbocharger, an updated exhaust system, a new active valve, and more.

As for the transmitting power to the front wheels, the re-tuned engine is mated to an improved six-speed manual gearbox, which comes along with a helical-type limited-slip differential.

The available driving modes include - 

• Comfort mode - Offering a smooth and comfortable ride for everyday driving
• Sports mode - Offering a fun and sporty ride on twisty roads
• +R mode - Offering the maximum acceleration with the powerful engine sound to conquer the track 
• Individual mode: Offering customisation for six parameters - engine, steering, suspension, engine sound, rpm and gauges

Exterior

The unique sporty design of the new Type R looks absolutely stunning. On the front lies a restyled honeycomb grille with the Honda logo on a red background. It is coupled with an aggressive bumper, a new bonnet with a scoop, and bigger fender grilles. Stealing all the attention on the sides are new red-black 19-inch wheels paired with the Brembo brake system. 

The rear profile stands out with a large, fixed rear wing highlighting the car’s sporty spirit and strength. Also part of the rear kit is a cluster of three exhaust pipes with powerful sounds and a blacked-out diffuser.

Honda Vietnam offers the new Type R in five exterior shades - Championship White, Rallye Red, Sonic Grey Pearl, Racing Blue Pearl, and Crystal Black Pearl

Interior

Just like the exterior, the car’s interior also exudes sporty vibes with striking patterns, contrasting colours, and high-quality materials. It is equipped with the following bits -

• Suede-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching
• 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster with exclusive +R displays 
• Type R sports seats wrapped in red suede upholstery

• Pedal set positioned on the red carpet 
• 9.0-inch infotainment unit supporting wireless connectivity for smartphones
• Wireless charging pad
• 3-angle reversing camera offering assistance for reversing, stopping, and parking 
• A unique serial number positioned on the air-conditioning grille confirming the vehicle’s uniqueness

Safety

In terms of safety, the Vietnam-spec Type R is packed with ​​eight airbags (including knee units for front passengers) and the brand’s advanced safety driving technology system, the Honda Sensing. It comprises the following features -

• Forward Collision Warning
• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Automatic Adaptive High Beam
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low Speed Follow
• Lane Keep Assist System
• Lead Car Departure Notification
• Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning

That’s all about the new Type R up for grabs in the Vietnamese market. 

When will the new Honda Civic Type R come to Malaysia? 

There is no official information yet available as to when the new Honda Civic Type R will come to Malaysia. However, we expect a soon arrival. 

Also read: Here’s your first official glimpse of the 2023 Honda Accord