British International Motor Show - Honda

What is there to see?
Hot on the heels of the futuristic-looking Civic hatchback released earlier this year, Honda is giving you the chance to see the three-door version for the first time, months before its January 2007 release.

The Type S is more than just a Civic with two fewer doors, though. It has sportier styling thanks to a more coupe-like profile, sculpted side skirts and a meatier front bumper.

Is that it?
The changes are more than just cosmetic, despite the fact that the Type S is built on the same platform as the five-door, and the overall dimensions haven't changed. Suspension settings have been tuned with the aim of improving ride quality, cornering stability and steering responses.

Buyers will be able to choose from two engines, the 1.8-litre petrol engine and the 2.2-litre diesel from the current Civic line-up. Both units knock out 138bhp, which will make for strong performance.

Included in the standard Type S specification will be a stability programme, 17-inch alloys, air-conditioning and six airbags. Higher-specification GT models will add a panoramic glass sunroof, dual-zone air-conditioning, cruise control, front foglights, and automatic wipers and headlamps.

Click on the links below for a video of the car.

• Honda on Windows Media
• Honda on RealOne Player

What about the Type R?
Unsurprisingly, the Type R will be based on the Type S, and although there's no production version ready to show us yet, the Type R concept is also on hand to give fans an idea of what it might look like.

What we do know is that output will remain the same as the old Type R at 197bhp, and the car will go on sale in March.

Anything else?
Formula One fans will enjoy 'View Suspended', a full-size Honda Racing F1 car that's been taken apart and displayed as 3D art.