The hotly-anticipated Honda Civic Type R goes on sale in March 2007, and it's been well worth the wait…

While it's just as exhilarating to drive as the outgoing Type R, the latest high performance Civic is a more refined 'superhatch', with improved comfort levels, integrated styling and handling tuned for enhanced responsiveness and predictability.

The new Type R continues to be powered by the naturally-aspirated, high-revving 2.0-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine but the unit has been significantly reworked to improve responsiveness using a new balancer shaft and drive-by-wire throttle control. VTEC variable valve timing and VTC variable inlet camshaft technology continue to underpin the engine structure.

Further development of the Type R unit means more useable torque, as the switch to high-lift, long duration valve timing (the cam change) now takes place at a lower 5,200rpm, and continues all the way to 8,000rpm. So that screaming, high rpm VTEC range is broader and more accessible.

To mark the entry to this 'power band' a new i-VTEC indicator just to the right of the digital speedometer is illuminated once the revs rise above 5,200rpm.

Maximum power is now 201PS, reached at 8,000rpm (previously 200PS at 7,400rpm) and the car is more responsive generally, while improved aerodynamics ensure the new car cuts through the air more cleanly. Slightly lower gearing compensates for a small increase in kerb weight.

Acceleration figures are expected to be virtually identical to the 6.6-second 0-62mph time of the outgoing car - and the new car should match its top speed too, powering on to 146mph.

The chassis of the Civic 5-door - already widely praised for its handling balance - forms the basis for all 3-door models and provides an ideal platform for the Type R.

Building on the Civic Type S suspension, which is fine-tuned for sharper chassis dynamics, the Type R takes those modifications to the next level. Like the Type S, its rear track is 20mm wider than that of the 5-door model, but otherwise damper, bush and spring characteristics are all unique to Type R.

Broad 225/40 ZR18 tyres provide added grip, while a 15mm reduction in ride height further reduces body roll. Firmer steering, a quicker ratio and stiffer steering box mountings all provide pin-sharp responses to steering wheel input, while the fuel tank's central location beneath the cabin floor helps to lower the centre of gravity and reduces the body's inertia moment.

The Type R also builds on the Civic's body structure - one of the stiffest in the C-sector - and that rigidity plays a key role in the responsive chassis dynamics.

Extra strengthening has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings, while the lower cross member (just ahead of the engine bay) provides greater rigidity. The overall result is a more predictable chassis, with levels of responsiveness and stability that are some of the best in class. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced ride comfort, so the Type R is easier to use in all conditions and on all surfaces.

While the styling of previous Civic Type Rs has almost been an after-thought, the latest car enhances the already-bold appearance of the Civic to build an incredibly assertive look. Seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard and - helped by the car's low ride height - these tuck neatly under the body coloured arches.

The deep front spoiler incorporates a larger air intake to channel air to the induction system, as well as triangular foglamps. There's no missing the distinct body-coloured tailgate rear spoiler, which follows the kick-up line from the rear quarter windows, and provides added down-force. At the front, a black honeycomb mesh grille replaces the glass panel of other Civics, sporting - of course - the infamous red 'H' badge.

While more discreet than on the outgoing car, Type R logos feature throughout. Firstly, the front brake callipers wear the insignia, and stainless steel inserts on the door sills also carry the badge.

Inside, it's all about the driving experience. Front seats are racing-style buckets with large black Alcantara bolsters and red stitching, red fabric seat cushions and backs. The seat bench in the back repeats the same colour combination.

The effective Dual Zone, two tier dash - common to other Civic models - also features in the latest Type R, but with red illuminated dials set off by gun-metal effect switch panels on either side of the central display. The driver grips a black, leather-covered steering wheel with red stitching and central 'H' logo, while the gear shift knob with aluminium-finish has a black boot with red stitching.

And, to make each Type R even more exclusive, a plaque engraved with the car's unique serial number is placed just ahead of the gear lever.

Also available will be a fully-equipped GT version, with additional features such as cruise control, dual zone air conditioning, fog lights, automatic lights and wipers and curtain SRS bags. A voice-activated, state-of-the-art navigation system is offered as an option.

Further development of the Type R unit means more useable torque, as the switch to high-lift, long duration valve timing (the cam change) now takes place at a lower 5,200rpm, and continues all the way to 8,000rpm.

Honda has released official photographs of the Civic Type R three-door hatch that will make its global debut later this month at the Paris Motor Show. Sales begin in Europe in 2007.

American Honda officials say the company has no plans to import the pocket rocket special to the United States. But sources indicate a final decision on U.S. sales may still be subject of discussions within the company.

There will be different levels of equipment available, ranging from a fully equipped car to one that even has the rear parcel shelf removed.

The new Type R continues to be powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine producing 198 hp at 8000 rpm, similar to the previous model which topped out at 197 hp at 7400 rpm. The revised engine is smoother and more responsive, Honda says, due to a new balance shaft and drive-by-wire throttle.

Widely praised for its ride and handling balance, the chassis of the Civic five-door forms the basis for all three-door models and provides an ideal platform for a high performance derivative. Building on the Civic Type S suspension which is fine-tuned for sharper chassis dynamics to match its sportier profile, the Type R takes those modifications on to the next level. Like the Type S, its rear track is 20mm wider than that of the five-door model, but otherwise damper, bush and spring characteristics are all unique to Type R. Firmer steering, a quicker ratio and stiffer steering box mountings in combination provide sharper steering response.

Extra strengthening has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings, while the lower cross member just ahead of engine bay provides greater rigidity. The overall result is a chassis offering more predictable characteristics than the old model, with levels of responsiveness and stability that are some of the best in class. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced ride comfort in keeping with the increased refinement of the new Type R.

Type R uses a series of fully integrated aerodynamic parts that together with a 15mm reduced ride height and standard seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, are a clear indication of the car's potent nature. The deep front spoiler incorporates a larger air intake as well as triangular foglamps whose shape mirrors the large exhaust tailpipes at the rear. There's a distinct body colored tailgate rear spoiler for added downforce that splits the rear tailgate glass rather than the raised glass profile featured on Civic five-door and Type S models.

Inside, front seat occupants are gripped by bucket seats with large black Alcantara bolsters with red stitching and red fabric seat cushions and backs. Two distinct rear seats repeat the same color coordination. Red illuminated dials are set off by gun metallic switch panels on either side of the center instrument display. The driver grips a black, perforated leather covered steering wheel with red stitching, while the matching gear shift knob with aluminum-finish has a black boot with red stitching. A plaque engraved with the car's unique serial number is placed just ahead of the gear lever.

Additional features include curtain SRS bags, cruise control, fog lights, automatic lights and wipers and dual zone air conditioning. A state-of-the-art navigation system, with voice control functionality as well as RDS traffic monitoring, is offered as an option.

Taking the Type R philosophy to its logical conclusion, a lighter Civic Type R will be available. The deletion of items such as the audio system, rear load cover, engine under cover and reduced noise insulation material brings weight down by 88 lbs. Like its predecessor, the new Type R will also be homologated for racing (FIA Group N and Group A), meeting a large demand from existing customers. A full range of competitive racing parts and racing service will also be made available.

All the range of Type R and Type S, are to be built exclusively alongside the Civic five-door range at the Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd. in Swindon, England.