It's been at least a week since the last
Civic Type R
news, right? Honda has confirmed its new BTCC car will be derived from the new Type R, rather than the estate as used last year. Appropriately enough, that means the
Civic Tourer BTCC car
also ran for only one season, just like the old 850 Estate did 20 years earlier.
Looks quite smart without the livery...
The new racer has been in development since September, with the hatch apparently providing increased downforce, less drag and "more effective air flow management." Who'd have thought?!
Honda Yuasa Racing says the BTCC car will produce 355hp and 295lb ft. An unchanged driver line-up of Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal will race the Civic, with three-time champ Neal keen to get started: "We are as excited as anybody to start running the Civic Type R, which is a massive step forward from last year's Tourer - from the engine to the handling and aerodynamics."
This year's BTCC begins, as ever, on Easter weekend (April 4 and 5). We will be again be sending PHers along as roving reporters - keep your eyes peeled for more details soon!
Track photos: Gary Hawkins