The first production units of the all-new Honda Civic Type R hot hatches have rolled off the line at the car maker’s UK-based production plant. These cars are now being shipped back to where the Type R was first conceived, as the first batch is destined for the Japanese Domestic Market.

The fact that Honda relies on their UK plant to supply cars that will be sold in Japan speaks volumes about the capacity and the quality of their UK-based operation. Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) underwent a £200 million upgrade recently to become ready for the production of the new generation Civic as well the Type R variant, bringing total investment to £2.2billion since 1985.

The new Honda Civic Type R is a hugely important model for Honda, not so much in terms of sales figures, since it’s a high-end hot hatch not a mainstream model, but mostly regarding the company’s prestige. That is why they crammed the new hot hatch full of goodies, including a 310 PS 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, advanced new suspension systems, stand-out function-led styling and a new +R track mode. The new Type R is the only car in its class capable of doing 167mph.

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.”