UK-built Honda R heads for Japan

Today, in his inaugural speech as Honda Motor Company CEO, Takahiro Hachigo said the new British-built Civic Type R is heading for customers in Japan.

The first units to be shipped from Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) are due to arrive in Japanese showrooms from autumn this year.

This news is a further boost for the 3,000 associates working at the UK-based plant in Swindon, as it follows the recent announcement of new investment at the plant of £200 million, with HUM becoming the global production hub for the next generation Civic five door model.

The first Civic Type R rolled off the production line at HUM only last week. Speaking at the start of volume production, HUM's managing director, Mr. Takizawa commented, "The new Civic Type R is a significant model for Honda, representing our racing spirit and demonstrating our commitment to innovation and passion. Here at HUM, we are extremely proud to be the only manufacturer of the Civic Type R in the world. Our high standards have earned us this privilege and this is testament to the continued commitment of our associates."

The new Honda Civic Type R is the most extreme and high-performing model so far built. With a high-revving all-new 2-litre VTEC TURBO engine, advanced new suspension systems, stand-out function-led styling and a new +R track mode Honda claims it is set to bring new standards to Europe's high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment. Peak power output is 310PS, with the engine red-lining at 7,000 rev/min, delivering a class-leading top speed of 167mph.

The announcement made in March that HUM would become the global production hub for the Civic five door model. The investment of £200 million for the plant brings total investment to £2.2 billion since 1985 and confirming “Honda's long-term commitment to manufacturing in the UK and Europe”, according to the company.