Spied: 2014 Honda Civic Type-R

Prove that Honda is currently testing the much-loved Civic Type-R comes courtesy of these chassis test mules have were spied around Honda's technical centre at the Nürburgring, boasting an oversized rear wing.

Manabu Nishimae, president of Honda Motor Europe, admitted that “customers are keen to see sporty models and while we can’t deliver immediately we are going to develop and deliver those products.”

Like its predecessors, the new Civic Type-R is likely to be powered by a rev-happy, naturally-aspirated petrol engine with more than 200bhp (203PS/149kW) and focusing on handling prowess rather than outright pace.

Unlike previous incarnations, the newcomer will be available as a five-door, rather than three-door.

General manager for Honda R&D centre, Yoshikazu Kigoshi, indicated that the finished article will have bespoke bumpers, wheels, bodykit, and seats to differentiate from the standard model, in addition to firmer suspension.

Honda noted that tuning brand, Mugen will not be involved in the development process.

The development of the Civic Type-R further indicates how seriously Honda is now taking its performance cars.

The Civic Type-R could launch in Spring 2014.

Via Autoevolution.com