Always a time for big reveals, Honda has a few tricks up its sleeve for this year’s New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) with plans to unveil the new Plug-In Hybrid and Electric versions of their environmentally conscious concept car the Clarity, as well as debut the highly anticipated Civic Type R. So what can you expect?
Honda unveiled the production model of the 2017 Civic Type R at the Geneva Motor Show earlier in March, and U.S. fans of the Civic Type R could barely contain their excitement over plans for the sporty, high-performance version of the popular Honda model to be available for the sale in the U.S. for the first time.
The new Civic Type R is powered by an American-made 2.0-liter DOHC, direct-injected and turbocharged i-VTEC in-line 4-cylinder engine with peak ratings of 306 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 295 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. A 6-speed manual transmission is paired with rev-matching capability and a signature growl. Dynamic handling is in store: a new single-mass flywheel significantly reduces clutch inertia and a lower final gear ratio is employed ensure responsive acceleration. Three levels of control are at the driver’s fingertips with Comfort, Sport (default) and “+R” modes, which adjust ride comfort and dynamic handling response.
The Civic Type R shares the body style of the 10th gen Civic Hatchback, although the chassis builds on the major makeover with model-exclusive spring, damper and bushing settings, a new Dual-Axis front suspension setup; a new four-wheel Adaptive Suspension System with three-chamber dampers; and an adaptive dual-pinion electric power steering system.
The Type R’s body stiffness will enhance scalpel-sharp responses versus the previous Civic Type R – enhancing steering response and cornering stability while alleviating body vibration and cabin noise. The improvements are made possible by the application of structural adhesive throughout the body and a reduction in body weight versus both the previous Type R and the hatchback base.
The 2017 Civic Type R is slated to go on sale stateside later this spring with an MSRP in the mid-$30K range, with specific details to be provided closer to the release date. It will be the first ever Type R-badged Honda to be sold on American soil.
At the 2016 NYIAS, Honda gave the media and consumers a first look at the 2017 Clarity Fuel Cell sedan and promised “A Clear Path to the Future” which included the Electric and Plug-in versions to follow. One year later, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid and Honda Clarity Electric are set to make their worldwide debut at NYIAS as well. These additions to the Clarity trifecta solidify Honda’s intention to address environmental concerns in their lineup. All three sedans promise to be “fun to drive” with dynamic handling and a steady electric drive torque and acceleration, and passengers can enjoy a luxurious, comfortable interior made from approximately 80% eco-conscious material. While all three use an electric drive motor, each vehicle is adapted to suit different driving needs and lifestyles.
The Clarity Electric will be Honda’s first affordable, midsize, five-passenger battery electric vehicle and will be powered by electricity stored in batteries that require recharging via a power outlet. It produces no emissions and offers a range that can vary from 50-315 miles.
The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is set to maximize on fuel efficiency with driving range rating of 40 miles while using the gasoline-hybrid extended range mode. Plug-in Hybrid vehicles use a traditional gasoline engine as well as an electric motor with a battery, so the Plug-In Hybrid is best suited for long distance driving. When being driven in EV mode, it also produces zero emissions.
At this time, the Clarity Fuel Cell is only available for lease in California, but we eagerly anticipate its mainstream release in the coming years.
The 2017 New York International Auto Show will showcase an incredible collection of cutting-edge design and automotive concepts, with nearly 1,000 cars and trucks will be on display. NYIAS 2017 opens to the public on Friday, April 14th at the Jacob Javits Convention Center and ends Sunday, April 23rd. For more information, visit www.autoshowny.com.
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The Wait Is Nearly Over: New 2017 Honda Civic Type R Makes Global Debut at Geneva Motor Show
