As Honda demonstrate the latest Civic Type R around its Tochigi Test Track they’ve revealed a few more details about the new range of VTEC TURBO engines which will power future models – including the 276 bhp Type R.

The Civic Type R will be the first model in Europe to have one of Honda’s all-new VTEC TURBO engines from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology range – the engines come in three capacities; 1.0 litre, 1.5 litre and 2.0 litre and use direct-injection petrol turbos utilising variable valve motion technology.

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They’re based on a completely new engine structure, with low friction internals and class-leading environmental performance, but it’s the high-output 2.0-litre version which will power the new Civic Type R, delivering in excess of 276bhp while still complying with Euro 6 emission standards.

Fans of the old VTEC Type R will be disappointed to see the new engine’s red line beginning at 7,000 rpm – it’s a very different driving experience with considerably more torque (up from 145 lb-ft to around 295 lb-ft) delivered much lower in the rev range.

It’s quicker and more fuel efficient, but no longer a high-revving screamer like its predecessor.

During a recent development test at at the 12.93 mile Nürburgring Nordschleife, Honda WTCC driver Gabriele Tarquini gave his first driving impressions; “The car is very pointed on the front and is fantastic on the change of direction, especially on the Carousel – I love this corner”.

“This car is very close to my racing car and you can feel really well the DNA of Type R.”

Last September Honda announced “the all-new Type R will aim to become the fastest front-wheel-drive vehicle on the Nürburgring race course.” The target they’re aiming for is 8-minutes or under, beating the current front-wheel drive record of 8 min 7.97 seconds held by the Megane Renaultsport 265.

There’s still a long way to go until 2015, time for one of their competitors to beat them to it.

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