New Honda Civic Type R Caught Testing In Full Camo

• It looks less boy-racer, from what we can tell.

• Rumour has it that it will be electrified, AWD, and with 400-horsepower.

• It’s not expected to come before the 2023 model year.

We are absolutely terrified that Honda’s going to mess up again. And by again, we are referring to the current Acura NSX. On paper, everything about Honda’s supercar reads perfectly however the final product is wrong. The recently updated Honda Civic Type R is without a shadow of a doubt the best-driving hot-hatch, FWD or AWD, and this new car may change this. The spy shots seem to show that the next Type R will be visually more civilized but that’s not the problem.

The “problem” is that, given that Honda has plans to electrify everything it sells before long, the next Civic Type R will likely be hybridized. While that may not be an issue per se, it’s the extra weight of the batteries and electric motors that has us concerned. Obviously, Honda engineers will ensure that there’s plenty of power to overcome the burden but even with a rumoured 400-horsepower, it won’t be the same…

Anyhow, the spy shots you see here, shared by HondaPro Jason on Twitter, show a car that is less flamboyant, and more cohesive visually. The current Type R’s styling has been the most criticized aspect of the car but it also makes it unique. Even if this new car seems more subtle, the rear basket-handle spoiler is still accounted for although it looks thin and smooth. The front end’s BMW-like grille displays an evolutionary design of the 2020’s front fascia and the same can be said for the rear. Oh, and we hope the long tailpipe makes it to production…

Physically, we’ll end up loving the new Honda Civic Type R but only if it drives the way a Type R must drive. Any variation on the theme, we promise you, will explode in Honda’s face. Truth be told, if Honda engineers are allowed to work their magic unimpeded, it will once more be the best of the best.

The new 11^th generation Honda Civic is expected for the 2022 model year. The Type R will come shortly thereafter.