US-Spec 2020 Honda Civic Type R Debuts at Chicago Auto Show

After its unveiling at the Tokyo Auto Salon last January, the 2020 Honda Civic Type R makes its way to the Chicago Auto Show. Ever the testosterone-driven car, numerous improvements make this boy racer all the more appealing.

Basically, it’s the same car that appeared in Tokyo, starting with the larger front grille and the Type R-exclusive Boost Blue paint finish. But more than an aesthetic enhancement, the new grille design also allows for better engine cooling under high demand.

Handling is improved by updated dampers, stiffer rear bushings, and revisions to the front suspension and steering systems, further refining the Type R’s world-beating driving dynamics. The brake system also receives an update via new two-piece brake rotors and brake pads designed to reduce fade and improve high-speed braking efficiency.

Inside, drivers can now enjoy a new Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, a new shifter with a restyled knob and shorter shift throws. Likewise, every 2020 Civic Type R comes with the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, making the Honda Sensing suite standard equipment on all Civic models and trims.

As for the 2020 Civic Type R powertrain, the car uses a 2.0-liter direct-injected and turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with VTEC valvetrain dishing 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.

Like before, drivers have three driving modes to choose from, providing varied suspension firmness, steering and throttle response to suit personal driving tastes as well as on-road driving conditions. These choices include the Comfort, Sport and +R modes.

New for 2020 is the Active Sound Control feature, which adapts the interior sound in accordance with the selected drive mode. From the mountain road to the racetrack The Type R's selectable drive modes and sophisticated design make it both a thrilling companion, as well as a remarkably civilized daily driver with a degree of flexibility unmatched in its competitive set, especially at the price.

Speaking of the price, Honda USA has not yet divulged how much the 2020 Honda Civic Type R is going to cost, but promises that additional information about the vehicle,  including pricing and all specifications, will be available later when it goes on sale later this winter.

PH currently has the 2019 Honda Civic Type R model on sale, priced at PHP 2,980,000.

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