2017 Honda Civic Type R revealed in production trim

Honda has finally revealed its 10th-generation Civic Type R in production form at the Geneva motor show, with the hot hatch receiving an 11kW increase in power over the former model, as well as retuned suspension and improved aerodynamics.

A reworked version of the ninth-gen Type R's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol VTEC engine has a revised power output of 235kW, but its torque figure is unchanged at 400Nm.

The hot hatch will only be available with a six-speed manual gearbox – which is paired with a rev-match control system – and power is sent exclusively to the front wheels.

Overall, handling and performance has also been enhanced thanks to a number of mechanical changes, according to the Japanese manufacturer.

When compared to its predecessor, Honda says a 38 per cent improvement in torsional rigidity is due to a stiffer chassis and the more liberal use of adhesive in important bonded areas.

Supply constraints were to blame for Honda Australia's decision to not import the last-gen model to Australia.

While the front MacPherson strut suspension is shared with the rest of the Civic line-up, it has been modified for the Type R to help reduce torque steer and refine handling.

Meanwhile, the independent multi-link rear suspension has also been changed with the addition of high-rigidity suspension arms.

Drivers will be able to adjust vehicle settings via the three-stage driving modes, which offer either Comfort, Sport or +R options that alter the throttle response, steering weight, gear shift feeling and adaptive dampers.

Upgrades to the hot hatch's aerodynamic are thanks to a lightweight rear wing spoiler, smoother underbody, front air curtain and vortex generators located at the rear of the roof line. 

Exterior styling remains faithful to the Type R Concept that was unveiled at the Paris motor show last September, which means large mesh air intakes, low front and side splitter, triple-tipped central exhaust and pronounced wheel arches filled with 20-inch rims.

Importantly, Honda's red 'H' badge – which is used to differentiate Type R models from the more run-of-the-mill offerings – features prominently at the front and rear of the hot hatch.

Each Civic Type R will be built by the carmaker at its factory in Swindon, England – whereas standard examples of the Civic sold Down Under are currently manufactured in Thailand.

Production of the performance model will commence during the middle of this year, with a fourth quarter debut pencilled in for the Australian market.

Significantly, this will also mark the first time Honda will sell the Civic Type R in the American market, which has missed out on the hot hatch's first nine generations.

Supply constraints were to blame for Honda Australia's decision to not import the last-gen model to Australia, meaning the new Type R will represent a rebirth of sorts.

Pricing and specification for Down Under are yet to be confirmed by the brand's local arm, but more information is expected to be released closer to the Civic Type R's launch date.

Does the storied Civic Type R's return to the local hot hatch scene have you on the edge of your seat? Let us know what you think in the comments below.