American hot-hatch enthusiasts are suitably stoked by the arrival of the new Honda Civic Type R in the United States. But the model now reaching showrooms is just the start.
Speaking through an interpreter to Automotive News, the Civic’s chief engineer Hideki Matsumoto said that more versions of the 306-horsepower hot hatch are on their way.
“We’re hoping that by gradually putting out more [variants] that we’ll be able to maintain a more stable sales volume,” he said.
That’s slated to include a cheaper version, but the budget Type R may not be the only one. Matsumoto-san suggested a more powerful version could be in the works, as well as the potential inclusion of all-wheel drive to better take on the likes of the VW Golf R, Ford Focus RS, and Subaru WRX STI. Those turned off by the Type R’s hardcore approach could enjoy a more toned-down version oriented towards touring instead of lap times as well.
No word, however, on the prospect of applying the Type R treatment to other body-styles, like the coupe or sedan – both of which are now offered in sporty Si spec, pictured below in red and blue respectively, alongside the white Type R hatch.
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