2027 Honda Civic Type R Revealed With Heated Seats, Google Gemini And Sharper Handling

Honda has revealed the updated 2027 Civic Type R, adding heated front seats and Google Gemini while making targeted changes to the hot hatch's suspension, braking and engine cooling. The update gives Honda's performance-focused Civic more everyday comfort and technology without increasing its power output.

The refreshed Type R retains its 315-horsepower 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual gearbox, but gains revised suspension tuning, quicker Rev Match responses and a more direct brake pedal. Honda says the redesigned front end also improves engine cooling and downforce, while the model becomes the first Civic Type R to feature heated front seats and Google built-in with Gemini.

The 2027 model is due to arrive at US Honda dealers this month, with a starting MSRP of $48,695 before a $1,295 destination charge. However, Honda is not planning to bring the updated Civic Type R to the UK. The model was withdrawn from the British market after Honda ended production of the previous-generation Civic Type R for Europe.

A Chassis Makeover

The most obvious changes are at the front, where Honda has fitted a redesigned fascia with a larger grille opening and a deeper front splitter. It also serves a functional purpose beyond giving the Type R a more aggressive appearance. Its revised front end reduces airflow turbulence, improving engine cooling while increasing downforce.

The suspension has also been retuned in the more aggressive +R driving mode. Revised damping is designed to improve the car's ability to follow the road while reducing bouncing and harsh impacts, helping provide greater stability when cornering.

Honda has also improved the Rev Match system for quicker engine response during downshifts. A new yoke spring in the brake pedal linkage reduces play, giving the driver a more direct pedal feel.

Despite these changes, Honda has not increased the Type R's power. The turbocharged K20C engine continues to produce 315hp, with Honda instead focusing the update on chassis, braking, and technology upgrades. This makes the Civic Type R the most powerful Honda production car sold in the US.

Honda Adds Heated Seats for the First Time

Honda has focused heavily on making the Type R easier to live with every day. The front sports seats are now heated for the first time, with three-level controls. Their red, high-friction suede-like upholstery also receives a new perforation pattern with black striping.

The cabin gains Ultrasuede on the upper dashboard and front door panels, alongside darker grey finishes for the aluminium gear knob, door handles and centre console. An auto-dimming rear-view mirror is also standard.

A new Meteorite Gray Metallic paint option joins Boost Blue Pearl, Sonic Gray Pearl and Championship White.

Google Gemini Headlines the Type R's Tech Upgrade

Technology gets a major upgrade, too, with Google built-in arriving on the 2027 Civic Type R alongside Google Gemini. The AI assistant is designed to support more natural, conversational interactions, allowing drivers to ask follow-up questions without having to repeat the context of an earlier exchange.

Google built-in also brings Google Maps and Google Play to the car's infotainment system, while Alexa built-in gives drivers another voice-assistant option. Two USB-C ports have also been added above the wireless phone charger.

Honda has also enhanced its Honda Sensing safety systems, with improvements to motorcycle and bicycle detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance. Post-Collision Braking is now standard for the first time.