The New Honda Civic Type R Could Get Automatic Gearbox

Honda is on track with its official release of the next-generationCivic Type R, which we can expect to see launched globally by the middle of this year. A new report out of Japan, however, suggests that the highly anticipated Japanese hot hatch will be offered with an unchanged power output from the current generation model.

AsBest Carreports, Honda still places a lot of faith and respect in its K20C1, which has already graced two generations of the Type R. The turbocharged gasoline 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine currently provides the hot hatch with 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, but something else could change.

To improve responsiveness and enhance engine characteristics, it is understood that the upcoming Civic Type R will have its 2,500-4,500-rpm torque band increased. It's also reported that this generation will steer clear of any electric hybrid systems, but catering to global market trends, an automatic transmission is being considered, which would be a first for the Civic Type R.

We don't know whether this will be a dual-clutch or torque converter, but the rumor states that it will have six cogs. Considering that the power figure remains the same, we could still expect the next-generation model to be a bit quicker thanks to a lower curb mass figure and increased body rigidity. As for the tires, we're still not sure which brand will be associated with the hatch, but it will wear a 265/30 set wrapped around 19-inch wheels. This is wider than before but houses a smaller wheel size.