Civic R concept previews new version

This is the first picture of the Honda Civic Type R concept which will feature on the Japanese carmaker's stand at Paris at the end of this week, writes Brian Byrne.

Honda says it will offer even more performance than previous R cars of any model, with a 280hp 2.0 turbocharged engine and a 6-speed manual gearbox.

A +R driving mode is designed for track use.

New suspension and steering systems offer better than ever handling, including a minimising of torque steer under heavy acceleration.

The concept will also show the distinctive luminous blue livery available in the production car, due to arrive next year.