Next-Gen Civic Hot Hatch Set for Geneva Reveal

Honda Motor Co. will take the wraps off the production version of its next-generation Civic Type R hatchback next month at the Geneva auto show.

The hot hatchback is expected to be a slightly toned down version of the concept Type R (pictured) introduced last autumn at the Paris auto show. That vehicle featured a large hood scoop, front and rear spoilers, flared fenders and prominent creases.

Power will be delivered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated with a 6-speed manual transmission. Unlike many of its competitors that have switched to all-wheel drive, the Civic Type R will maintain a front-drive-only system.

Production is due to start this summer at Honda’s Swindon, U.K., plant. The new Type R will be exported to global markets, including the U.S. for the first time.