ONE of the most explosive – and exclusive – hot hatches in recent times has been infused with an extra dose of Mugen power.
The Honda Civic Type R MUGEN was unveiled last year when a 20-strong limited edition production run of the hand-built, motorsport-derived machines went on sale to UK enthusiasts.
Now the engineers at Northampton-based MUGEN Euro have worked their magic again, producing a version with even more of a knockout punch.
The cylinder bore and stroke have been increased to create an overall capacity of 2,156cc - so the car has been christened the Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 2.2.
Not only is there is a boost in engine output from 240PS to 260PS, but there’s additional torque too. In fact compared to a standard Civic Type R, both power and torque are up 30 per cent.
And when coupled to motorsport-derived components like sports suspension, uprated brakes and a performance body kit the MUGEN 2.2 represents the ultimate expression of the Type R philosophy.
It has been created as a tribute to the Honda K20 2.0-litre petrol engine, which has ceased production in Japan, but that has been at the heart of everything MUGEN Euro has achieved since the company was formed in 2006.
Its engineers have built or tuned almost 400 examples for race and rally competitors around the world.
MUGEN Euro’s vice-president Hiro Toyoda said: “Environmental pressures mean naturally aspirated engines are rapidly being superseded by other engine architectures and technologies.
“We may never see the like of the K20 in a mainstream production car again, so felt it only fitting we mark the occasion with this special 2.2 version of the Honda Civic Type R”.
Plans for the 2.2 car have yet to be finalised, but four of the 20 limited edition 2.0-litre cars launched in 2010 remain unsold and it’s possible they may be offered with the reworked engine.
Meanwhile, Honda will unveil a cleaner, higher quality Insight hybrid at next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show.
The revised five-door hatchback will have lower CO2 emissions of 96g/km, while reduced engine friction, changes to the CVT transmission and improved air conditioning all contribute to lower fuel consumption.
The changes mean the 2012 Insight again qualifies for congestion charge exemption and falls into the lowest VED band, meaning owners will pay no annual road tax. The new figures also ensure that Insight remains in one of the lowest groups for Benefit in Kind taxation.
Styling-wise the Insight also receives a new front grille, while at the back visibility is increased through a slimmer spoiler, modified tailgate and a reduction in the size of the wiper motor.