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NEW CARS

2027 Honda Civic Type R Gets Sharper Looks, Better Cooling and More Technology

The 2027 Honda Civic Type R arrives with a sharper face, improved cooling, revised chassis tuning and a more sophisticated interior, while preserving the feature that has made Honda’s hottest Civic such a favorite among driving enthusiasts: a six-speed manual transmission.

Celebrating 30 years of the Civic Type R, the refreshed 2027 model builds on six generations of Honda performance engineering. With 315 horsepower, aggressive aerodynamics and a driver-focused chassis, the Civic Type R remains the most powerful Honda production vehicle ever sold in the United States.

The updated 2027 Honda Civic Type R is beginning to arrive at Honda dealerships in the U.S., with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $48,695.

2027 Honda Civic Type R: Sharper Design, Better Performance

Honda has resisted the temptation to radically reinvent the Civic Type R. Instead, the 2027 model receives a series of carefully targeted upgrades designed to make an already capable hot hatch even more effective on the road and racetrack.

The most obvious change is at the front. The redesigned front fascia features a deeper front splitter and a larger grille opening, giving the Type R a more aggressive appearance while serving a functional purpose.

Honda has also improved airflow through the front of the vehicle. Reduced turbulence increases airflow velocity and improves engine cooling, an important upgrade for sustained performance during demanding track sessions.

The changes underline the philosophy behind the Civic Type R: aerodynamic styling should serve a purpose rather than simply provide visual drama.

315-HP Turbocharged Engine and Six-Speed Manual Transmission

Power continues to come from Honda’s turbocharged 2.0-liter K20C four-cylinder engine, producing 315 horsepower.

The engine remains manufactured at Honda’s Anna Engine Plant in Ohio using both domestic and globally sourced components.

Perhaps more important to enthusiasts, the Civic Type R remains exclusively available with a manual transmission. At a time when dual-clutch and automatic transmissions dominate the performance-car market, Honda continues to offer the Type R with a traditional six-speed manual gearbox.

That makes the Civic Type R one of the few modern high-performance cars that puts the driver completely in charge of the gear changes.

Honda has also revised the Rev Match system for 2027. The system now delivers faster engine response, helping produce smoother and more precise downshifts.

Improved Suspension and Brake Feel

The 2027 Honda Civic Type R is not simply a cosmetic update.

Honda has revised the suspension damping in the car’s +R drive mode to improve road-following ability and reduce bouncing and impact harshness. The goal is greater stability and improved handling, particularly when the car is being driven aggressively.

Brake pedal feel has also been addressed. A new yoke spring helps suppress play in the brake-pedal linkage, creating a more direct connection between the driver’s foot and the braking system.

These are relatively small engineering changes, but they matter in a car such as the Civic Type R, where driver feedback is central to the experience.

A More Aggressive Type R Appearance

The revised front-end design gives the 2027 Civic Type R a more purposeful appearance, while the aerodynamic bodywork continues to distinguish it from the standard Civic hatchback.

A new Meteorite Gray Metallic exterior color joins the palette, adding a darker and more understated alternative to the model’s traditionally dramatic colors.

The 2027 Honda Civic Type R is available in four exterior colors:

  • Meteorite Gray Metallic
  • Boost Blue Pearl
  • Sonic Gray Pearl
  • Championship White

Championship White remains particularly significant to Honda enthusiasts, reflecting the brand’s long-running racing heritage and the visual identity associated with Type R models.

The engine cover has also been redesigned. Its appearance draws inspiration from the engines used in earlier generations of Type R models sold in Japan, adding another subtle link between the latest Civic Type R and its heritage.

Heated Sport Seats Bring More Everyday Comfort

While performance remains the priority, Honda has made the 2027 Civic Type R more comfortable to use every day.

For the first time, the front sport seats are heated. Three-level seat-heater controls are positioned within easy reach, making the Type R more practical during cold-weather driving.

The seats continue to use red high-friction suede-like upholstery, but the material now features a revised perforation pattern with distinctive black striping.

The high-friction surface helps hold occupants in place during high-G cornering, while improved breathability in high-contact areas is intended to reduce driver fatigue.

This is an important addition because the Civic Type R has always occupied an unusual position in the performance-car market. It is capable of serious track work, yet it is still expected to function as a practical daily driver.

More Premium and Driver-Focused Interior

Honda has also upgraded the Type R’s cabin with a number of visual and functional improvements.

A new diamond-pattern trim panel with a black surround adds visual interest, while black air-vent knobs and premium Ultrasuede material across the upper instrument panel and front doors give the cabin a more upscale character.

The Ultrasuede covering on the instrument panel has a functional benefit as well. According to Honda, it helps reduce glare and reflections on the windshield, potentially improving visibility during demanding driving conditions.

The aluminum shift knob, interior door handles and center-console trim now receive a darker gray finish. Black climate-control knobs and silver front-door-panel trim further differentiate the updated cabin.

A new auto-dimming rearview mirror is another welcome addition, reducing glare from vehicles approaching from behind during nighttime driving.

Google Built-In and Alexa Join the Type R

Technology has also received a significant upgrade.

The 2027 Civic Type R gains Alexa built-in and, for the first time, Google built-in. The latter includes Google Gemini, Google Maps and Google Play.

Gemini is designed to provide more conversational interactions than traditional voice assistants, maintaining context across multiple exchanges and allowing drivers to interact with the system more naturally.

The goal is to make the technology useful without taking attention away from driving.

Honda has also added two USB-C ports to the center console, positioned above the standard wireless smartphone charger.

For a car designed around analog driving involvement, the addition of modern connectivity creates an interesting contrast: the gearbox and engine remain resolutely mechanical and driver-focused, while the cabin becomes considerably more connected.

Enhanced Honda Sensing Safety Technology

Despite its performance focus, the Civic Type R continues to receive Honda’s full suite of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistance technologies.

For 2027, the Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection gains improved visibility of motorcycles and bicycles.

Adaptive Cruise Control receives revised braking and acceleration responses, while the Lane Keeping Assist System gains improved control over road camber and other disturbances for smoother operation.

Another significant addition is Post-Collision Braking, which becomes standard on every 2027 Civic Type R. The system is designed to help reduce the potential damage associated with multiple collisions following an initial impact.

The standard Honda Sensing package includes:

  • Collision Mitigation Braking System
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Lane Keeping Assist System
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Road Departure Mitigation
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Blind Spot Information System
  • Cross Traffic Monitor
  • Driver Attention Monitor
  • Traffic Sign Recognition
  • Auto High-Beam Headlights

Honda says more than 10 million vehicles in the United States have been equipped with Honda Sensing since the technology suite was introduced in 2014.

30 Years of Honda Civic Type R

The timing of the refreshed model is significant. Honda is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Civic Type R in 2026, marking three decades since the performance badge first appeared on a Civic in Japan.

The original Civic Type R debuted as a 1997 model, establishing a formula that has remained remarkably consistent through six generations: a lightweight, front-wheel-drive performance car combining motorsport-inspired engineering with the practicality of a Civic.

The modern Type R has evolved dramatically in terms of power, aerodynamic sophistication and technology, but its fundamental philosophy remains intact.

The 2027 model continues that tradition with a turbocharged engine, sophisticated suspension, aggressive aerodynamics and a manual transmission.

2027 Honda Civic Type R Price

The 2027 Honda Civic Type R starts at $48,695 in the United States.

That price places the Civic Type R firmly in the premium end of the modern hot-hatch segment, but Honda is offering considerably more than outright performance. The latest model combines 315 horsepower and a manual transmission with improved cooling, revised suspension tuning, upgraded brakes, heated sport seats, expanded connectivity and a comprehensive suite of safety technology.

Source: Honda

NEW CARS

New Audi A6 allroad Arrives With Smarter quattro Ultra All-Wheel Drive and Plug-In Hybrid Power

The new Audi A6 allroad has arrived at Audi dealerships, combining the familiar strengths of the allroad formula with more sophisticated all-wheel-drive technology and an expanded electrified powertrain lineup. Prices start at €77,250 for the six-cylinder diesel, while the new plug-in hybrid version starts at €80,250.

Designed to bridge the gap between a premium estate and a more capable all-weather vehicle, the Audi A6 allroad continues to focus on long-distance comfort, confident handling and traction across changing road conditions. At the heart of the latest model is Audi’s quattro ultra all-wheel-drive system, which is designed to deliver the traction benefits of quattro while reducing drivetrain losses when four-wheel drive is not required.

Audi A6 allroad gets a new plug-in hybrid option

The latest Audi A6 allroad is available with a 3.0-liter V6 TDI featuring MHEV plus technology and an electrically powered compressor. For the first time, however, customers can also choose a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

That addition broadens the A6 allroad’s appeal by combining electrification with the model’s established focus on long-distance versatility. Both the V6 TDI and plug-in hybrid versions use quattro ultra technology, giving the A6 allroad the ability to optimize power distribution according to the conditions.

The result is a drivetrain designed to balance efficiency with the instant availability of all-wheel-drive traction.

How Audi quattro ultra works

Unlike a conventional permanent all-wheel-drive system that continuously drives both axles, quattro ultra can temporarily disconnect the rear drivetrain when additional traction is not required.

The system uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch at the transmission output together with a second decoupling clutch integrated into the rear axle differential. When the vehicle is cruising under low load and there is little risk of wheel slip, both clutches can open.

This disconnects the driveshaft and rear drivetrain components, reducing mechanical friction and helping improve efficiency.

But the important point is that the Audi A6 allroad does not simply wait for the wheels to lose traction before engaging the rear axle. quattro ultra works predictively, constantly analyzing the vehicle’s behavior and the road ahead to determine when all-wheel drive will be advantageous.

Predictive all-wheel drive can react before wheel slip occurs

Audi’s quattro ultra system continuously evaluates a wide range of parameters, including steering angle, accelerator demand, transmission setting, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, body movements and the estimated coefficient of friction between the tires and road.

It also learns from the driver’s behavior and takes the selected Audi drive select mode into account.

The system can predict approximately 0.5 seconds in advance when all-wheel drive is likely to be required. Once a decision is made to engage the rear axle, the complete process takes around 200 milliseconds.

That means quattro can be ready before the driver actually needs the additional traction.

This approach is particularly useful when pulling away, accelerating hard, entering a corner at speed or encountering a low-grip surface such as wet asphalt, snow or loose gravel.

“The transition between different operating modes of the all-wheel-drive system is imperceptible to the driver. What the driver feels in any situation is the traction and driving dynamics associated with quattro,” said Rouven Mohr, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG.

Front-wheel drive when efficiency matters, quattro when traction is needed

During efficient driving conditions, the quattro ultra system can send 100 percent of available drive torque to the front axle. If conditions change, the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch progressively brings the rear axle into operation.

Torque distribution is continuously adjusted according to traction, driving dynamics and comfort.

Under heavy acceleration, Audi says more than 70 percent of available torque can be transferred to the rear wheels on dry roads. This allows the A6 allroad to retain the characteristic traction and dynamic behavior associated with quattro while still benefiting from reduced mechanical losses during less demanding driving.

The result is a system that attempts to provide the best of both worlds: front-wheel-drive efficiency when additional traction is unnecessary and all-wheel-drive capability when it matters.

Four decades of Audi quattro technology

The latest A6 allroad is also the newest chapter in a technology story that began with the original Audi quattro in 1980.

Over more than four decades, Audi has progressively developed its all-wheel-drive systems. The technology has evolved from the manually locking center differential of the original Ur-quattro to various generations of Torsen differentials and, ultimately, today’s electronically controlled systems.

Audi has now produced more than 15.6 million vehicles equipped with quattro. According to the company, that represents approximately one-third of all Audi vehicles produced since the introduction of the technology.

Few technologies are as closely associated with a premium automotive brand as quattro is with Audi, and the A6 allroad remains one of the clearest expressions of that philosophy.

A6 allroad combines comfort with all-weather capability

The Audi A6 allroad has traditionally occupied a distinctive position in the market. Rather than being a conventional luxury estate or a full-size SUV, it combines estate-car driving characteristics with increased versatility and all-weather capability.

The latest version continues that formula while adding a more sophisticated approach to all-wheel-drive efficiency.

The ability to disconnect the rear drivetrain during low-load driving can help reduce friction and consumption, while predictive engagement ensures that the driver does not have to manually select four-wheel drive when conditions deteriorate.

That makes quattro ultra particularly well suited to a vehicle intended for long-distance travel, where highway efficiency and predictable traction can be equally important.

Source: Audi

News

A Smarter Cabin for Porsche’s Future Classics

Porsche is giving owners of its modern classics a compelling reason to upgrade their in-car technology. The new-generation Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus (PCCM Plus) brings modern infotainment, navigation and connectivity features to more than 300,000 Porsche 911, Cayman and Boxster models built between 2009 and 2016.

Designed specifically for Porsche’s future classics, the latest PCCM Plus combines contemporary digital technology with a factory-style appearance that integrates seamlessly into the interiors of older sports cars. The system is available through Porsche Centres worldwide in two model-specific versions covering the 997.2, 987.2, 981 and 991.1 generations.

Porsche PCCM Plus Brings Modern Technology to Older Sports Cars

The Porsche PCCM Plus has become one of the most popular factory retrofit solutions for owners who want modern infotainment without compromising the original character of their cars.

The latest generation takes that concept considerably further. Rather than simply adding a new touchscreen, Porsche has developed the system to integrate more deeply with the vehicle’s existing architecture and controls.

The system features a seven-inch high-resolution touchscreen, while vehicles equipped with a multifunction steering wheel can also operate key infotainment functions through the existing steering-wheel controls.

Porsche has also retained support for vehicle-specific settings and information. Depending on the model and equipment, navigation instructions and music information can be displayed directly within the instrument cluster.

That level of integration is important for owners of collectible Porsche models, where aftermarket modifications can sometimes look out of place. The PCCM Plus is designed to appear as though it belongs in the car from the factory.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto With Wireless Connectivity

One of the biggest upgrades is the integration of modern smartphone connectivity.

The new Porsche PCCM Plus supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connections available through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. This allows owners to access compatible navigation, music, communication and other smartphone applications without relying on a conventional wired connection.

The system also supports Bluetooth audio streaming, including metadata such as song titles and artist information.

Depending on local regulations, YouTube video playback is also available when the vehicle is stationary.

Porsche has even added a visual customization feature that allows the virtual vehicle shown on the infotainment display to be configured in a Porsche exterior color. It is a small detail, but one that reinforces the connection between the digital interface and the physical car.

Navigation Gets More Sophisticated

Navigation is another area where the new PCCM Plus moves significantly beyond the technology originally available in these Porsche models.

The system can display speed-limit information based on map data and supports satellite imagery. Map updates can also be installed over the air, reducing the need for traditional manual update procedures.

For drivers who bought their Porsche for the experience rather than simply getting from A to B, Porsche has included its Scenic Roads navigation function. The system can select particularly winding and panoramic routes, potentially turning an ordinary journey into a more engaging drive.

The new infotainment system also provides access to vehicle information such as oil temperature and oil pressure through the trip display.

Visual Parking Assistance for Cayman and Boxster

The PCCM Plus also adds useful functionality to the Porsche Cayman and Boxster.

Models equipped with the existing acoustic parking aid can gain a visual representation of the distance to obstacles on the infotainment screen. This supplements the audible warnings with a more intuitive graphical display.

For owners of older sports cars that were developed before today’s extensive parking-assistance systems became commonplace, it is a meaningful convenience upgrade.

Modern Audio and Connectivity Features

Porsche has equipped the new PCCM Plus with a broad range of audio and connectivity technologies.

Depending on the market, the system supports DAB, HD radio, FM and AM through dual tuners. Existing vehicle sound systems can also be connected, helping owners retain the audio hardware already installed in their Porsche.

The system includes internal and external microphones, Bluetooth streaming and interfaces for external media sources.

A nano-SIM card slot with 4G connectivity further expands the system’s online capabilities, although the availability of individual connected services depends on the market and vehicle configuration.

Two Versions Cover the 987.2, 997.2, 981 and 991.1

Porsche is offering the new PCCM Plus in two model-specific configurations.

The first version is designed for the 911, Cayman and Boxster from model years 2012 to 2016, covering the 991.1 and 981 generations.

The second version is intended for model years 2009 to 2013, covering the 997.2 and 987.2 generations.

In total, Porsche says the new system is suitable for more than 300,000 vehicles that are increasingly being viewed as future classics.

The availability of individual functions varies according to the vehicle model, specification and market. Some services also require an active internet connection.

Porsche PCCM Plus: Key Facts

  • System: New-generation Porsche Classic Communication Management Plus
  • Compatible models: Porsche 911, Cayman and Boxster
  • Generations: 997.2, 987.2, 981 and 991.1
  • Model years: 2009–2016, depending on version
  • Display: Seven-inch high-resolution touchscreen
  • Smartphone integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
  • Navigation: Map-based speed limits, satellite imagery and Scenic Roads
  • Map updates: Over the air
  • Audio: DAB, HD, FM and AM dual tuners, plus Bluetooth streaming
  • Connectivity: 4G nano-SIM support
  • Vehicle information: Oil temperature and oil pressure
  • Parking assistance: Visual obstacle-distance display on compatible Cayman and Boxster models
  • Availability: Porsche Centres worldwide
  • Installation: Porsche recommends installation at a Porsche Centre

Source: Porsche