The 2021 Honda Civic Type R is a controversial hot hatch, but it’s an indisputable performer. However, Honda updated its beloved Type R with more refined styling, revised aero, and some finer touches to modernize it. Furthermore, Honda claims that the upcoming 2023 Civic Type R will be the most powerful one yet. Still, does newer mean better for the hot hatchback?

How much horsepower does the 2021 Honda Civic Type R produce?

The last Civic Type R, the 2021 model from the 10th generation of the hot hatch, is no slouch. With an eager 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the FK8 car produces 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That’s no small amount for a practical hatchback. However, Honda is adamant that the upcoming 2023 model will have even more horsepower than the previous iteration. 

Better yet, with 315 horsepower, the 2023 Civic Type R might have Volkswagen Golf R in its sights. If the new Civic Type R can live up to the hype, it could dethrone the German king of hot hatch hill. Of course, the Volkswagen hatchback uses an all-wheel drive (AWD) system to launch, whereas the upcoming Type R will likely not offer an AWD option. 

What’s different about the styling? 

Fortunately for fans who found the FK8’s styling to be excessive and unattractive, the 11th generation car gets a complete design refresh. The lower, wider 2023 Type R features styling similar to the latest Honda Civic. Gone are the excessive vents and sharp edges of the 2021 Type R. It’s not just aesthetic changes, though. 

The 11th generation body is lightweight and rigid, allowing for what Honda calls “scalpel-sharp responses.” Wider tires, a drag-reducing construction, and more subtly integrated aero compliment the new styling. 

How much is a 2023 Honda Civic Type R?

Honda hasn’t released the price of the upcoming 11th generation Civic Type R yet. However, Car and Driver believes the forthcoming car will start at around $39,000. If that projection is correct, it suggests that the upcoming vehicle will be very similarly priced to the 2021 model’s starting price of $38,910. Frankly, both cars are bargains compared to the Golf R and its starting price of $44,640. 

Should you buy a 2023 Honda Civic Type R?

If you love the styling of the 10th generation FK8 car, there are used examples for you to seek out. Should you choose to hunt down a used option, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) states that a 2021 Civic Type R has a fair purchase price of $37,408. That means the previous iteration didn’t lose much value from its initial asking price. 

Regardless of the previous generation’s value and sports credentials, the 2023 Civic Type R is sharper, competitively priced, and more attractive than its predecessor. If you’re in the market for a hot hatch, the 11th-gen Type R should be on your radar. Scroll down to the following article to read more about the 2023 Honda Civic Type R!

Updated with the latest information on 9/1/2022