Type R Is No More In Europe, But What Follows Might Surprise You | Carscoops

      Honda is not committed to maintaining the Type R as a turbocharged vehicle, or even as one powered by a traditional engine.

      The Type R branding will be removed from all new Honda models sold in Europe starting next year.

      A Honda executive has indicated that the Type R formula may evolve based on market needs.

      This statement aligns with CES speculation suggesting that an electric Type R may already be in development.

      The Honda Civic Type R is set to be phased out in Europe. However, instead of lamenting the loss of this badge, Honda appears to be looking toward the future, which may involve electrification.

      It remains uncertain whether this electrification will take the form of a hybrid or a fully electric vehicle, similar to Hyundai’s Ioniq 5N. At present, the Civic Type R is exiting European markets due to its failure to comply with the new EU GSR2 legislation, which mandates driver monitoring technology.

      An Electric Future Could Be in Sight

      While the FL5-generation Type R is coming to an end in Europe, it will still be available in the US and Japan for the foreseeable future. Should it return, likely as a new generation, could it transition to electric power?

      During a recent discussion with AutoExpress at the debut of Honda's new Prelude, project leader Tomoyuki Yamagami suggested that the future of Type R need not be constrained by its internal combustion engine lineage. He stated, “Type R can be anything in the future, depending on what the market demands…Type R is not dependent on a turbo powertrain,” stressing that the core of the badge is rooted in enhancing dynamic performance rather than solely relying on the specifics of its engine setup.

      This perspective aligns with insights shared by Honda’s BEV Center at CES earlier this year. Toshihiro Akiwa, head of Honda’s BEV Development, discussed the potential characteristics of an electric Type R. Electric motors present a new challenge, as they lack the high-revving VTEC, turbocharger sounds, and other auditory signals that enthusiasts typically associate with performance vehicles. Akiwa remarked that the real challenge lies in how to convey these traits in a thrilling driving experience that honors the Type R spirit: “It’s not just about power, it’s about the sound, vibration, acceleration, and human experience. These are the joys of driving.”

      Next-Gen Platform Development Is Underway

      Honda’s commitment to electrification begins in earnest with the introduction of two new electric vehicles, the 0 Series saloon and a midsize SUV, slated for production in 2026. These will be the first of seven new models built upon Honda’s next-generation electric platform.

      Although Type R variants of these upcoming models have not been officially announced, the platform is anticipated to accommodate power outputs of up to 480 hp, suggesting there is ample potential for a future electric hot hatch to make an impact.