Whenever we see a concept or prototype that points us to a new model reveal, it’s likely we’re going to get disappointed with the real deal.
Prototypes and concepts are known to go a bit overboard with things – crazy paint, huge wheels, slim mirrors, and wings galore, while the production version needs more realistic proportions and must meet certain safety standards.
SEE ALSO: Production Honda Civic Type R Finally Debuts With 306 HP
When we first saw the Civic Type R prototype, we were blown away – the way Honda transformed the mainstream Civic compact sedan into something more sinister and bad-ass was jaw-dropping, but in the back of our minds, we knew not all of this would make the production version. Here’s how the prototype compares to the real thing.
2017 Geneva Motor Show Coverage
Paint:
The most obvious change between the real deal and the prototype is the paint used. When the prototype was unveiled last year at the Paris Motor Show, it was finished with this dark brushed aluminum paint job. While eye catching, it’s probably not feasible in the real world and it’s notably absent on the production version.
Side markers:
As you can see above, there’s a few slight changes between the production and prototype. First, is the amber corner lights found on the production model, were slick looking and tinted black on the prototype.
Front intake:
Additionally, the lower front intake is slightly smaller on the production version, or at least the lighter paint scheme makes it look less intimidating as the prototype models.
Bumper openings:
However, While the intakes seem smaller on the production model, the gills on the side of the intake seem larger and more pronounced on the prototype version.
Headlight washer:
While the other changes seem to be more stylish, this one is pure function. The production version has little bumps hiding headlight washers, while the more streamlined prototype doesn’t.
Ground Effects:
Both cars feature a serious ground effects package. However, on the prototype, Honda points out that the front splitter, rear diffuser and side skirts are all carbon fiber. Likely that has been dropped for the production version, with the car using a lookalike material now. The good news is that helps keep the price of the Type R to a reasonable mid-$30,000.
Red exhaust tip:
One sad omission on the production model is the tailpipes. While both production and prototypes featured three exhaust exits, the prototype sported a really badass looking metallic red center exhaust. This small detail is missing from the production version.
Similarities:
On the other hand, the production car sticks quite close to the prototype in a number of important ways. Both cars sport big 20 inch wheels, and the spoke design of the wheels are almost identical. Both cars also come with Brembo brakes. Up front, the big hood scoop that was previewed in the prototype made its debut on the real car as well, and around back, the big spoiler is also present.
With 306 horsepower, a slick six-speed manual with automatic rev matched downshifts, high performance rubber, brakes and a body that’s lighter than a base Civic Hatchback, the new Type R is going to be a blast to drive. And it certainly looks the part.
