Even though Honda has yet to confirm production of the Mugen prepped Civic Type R as the model still retains its concept title, the Japanese firm shipped the car over to the UK for further development and while they were at it, they gave it to Autocar magazine for a test drive. Matt Prior, the journalist who sat behind the steering wheel of the prototype model, notes that Mugen’s engineers need to work more on the Civic Type R’s chassis, and especially the rear suspension, to make it competitive with other special hot hatches from Europe like the Renault Megane R26.R.

On the other hand, the Mugen Civic Type R’s modified 2,0-litre VTEC engine that has received a 29 kW boost producing a total output of 178 kW looks and sounds quite promising – see in the video how easily the naturally-aspirated in-line four cylinder hits the rev limiter at 8 500 rpm.

Other upgrades include a new aero kit with a huge rear wing and a high performance brake system. Mugen’s team has also incorporated a number of weight savings measures, such as stripping the interior of unnecessary items like the rear seats and using lighter alloy wheels wrapped in sport tyres.

Adapted from CarScoop

The potent Civic Type-R has received an aggressive overhaul from Honda’s in-house tuning division Mugen, destined for the UK market.

Inspired by the Japan-only Civic Mugen RR sedan, the new hatch boasts a wild aero kit, uprated engine, a few suspension tweaks and some racing goodies for the interior.

From the outside it is obvious that this is no normal Type-R with plenty of vents and flares, huge exhausts and an oversized wing to put a grin on any boy-racers face.

Exact details on changes to the engine are scarce, although it is likely to feature similar modifications to its Mugen RR sedan sibling – meaning around 179 kW at 8 000 rpm from the 2,0-litre VTEC powerplant.

Inside it should gain a pair of Recaro pews along with the obligatory Mugen branding.

It should also handle a lot better, with a limited slip differential as standard (as featured on all 2009 Civic Type-R models), wider tyres and sports tuned suspension.

The Mugen Civic Type-R will remain a UK-only model so it is unlikely we will see it in local showrooms any time soon.

Adapted from CarAdvice