The new 2015 Civic Type R will be powered by the most extreme and high-performing engine in the 22-year history of the red 'H' badge, signalling the start of a new performance era for the Honda brand.

At the heart of the Civic Type R is an all new, direct-injected turbocharged 2.0-litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine, which delivers power, torque and performance figures unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment. Peak power output is 306bhp at 6,500rpm, and peak torque is 400Nm at 2,500rpm - both higher than for any previous Honda Type R model.

Redlining at 7,000rpm, the engine - part of Honda's next generation Earth Dreams Technology series - features an advanced new turbocharger with VTEC technology that boosts low end torque and delivers sustained acceleration. The century sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and top speed, where permitted, is a class leading 270km/h.

The new engine is mated to a slick shifting six-speed manual transmission, safeguarding an intimate, rewarding connection with the drivetrain, and power is directed through the front wheels.

The styling changes that are unique to the Civic Type R give the car an aggressive, purposeful stance, yet almost all have a functional purpose. Highlights include a new, almost completely flat underside aids airflow under the vehicle and combines with a rear diffuser to optimise downforce. The structure of the rear wing - its angle, height and shape as well as its vertical end plates - have been carefully engineered to optimise downforce without causing a significant increase in drag at higher speeds.

A number of innovative new suspension systems, unique to the Type R, have been introduced to produce rewarding handling characteristics and to maximise power transfer to the road.

A new four-point Adaptive Damper System, developed specifically for the Type R, enables continuous independent control of each wheel to deliver exceptional road holding performance, limit wheel-load transfer during sharp acceleration and deceleration, and to maintain a stable, flat ride.

An advanced Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension system helps to reduce torque steer by 50 percent compared to the standard Civic's suspension set up. These systems are complemented by Dual Pinion Electric Power Steering, which helps to deliver rapid yet linear steering response and abundant feel.

The new Civic Type R will mark the debut of the new '+R' button that increases the response of various chassis and drivetrain systems. When +R mode is activated, engine mapping becomes more aggressive while the steering receives reduced power assistance while, damping force from the new Adaptive Damper System is increased by 30 percent.

New lightweight, high-rigidity 19-inch alloy wheels wearing 235/35R19 tyres are unique to the Type R and complement the visual changes. Brembo's four piston calipers apply braking force to 350mm drilled discs to make sure the Type R stops in time.