Honda is putting the Civic Type R's suspension into the new Prelude
Dual-axis setup – to reduce understeer – will feature in a non-Type R for the first time
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Though Honda has thus far refused to fully confirm a Prelude Type R, today we learn the base car is already up to the challenge. That's because Honda has fully confirmed its new hybrid coupe – that's not a crossover, yay! – will deploy the Civic Type R's unique 'dual-axis' suspension setup.
It will also inherit the Civic Type R's wider front and rear tracks, and Brembo front brake system. It's the first time a non-Type R Honda has been treated to Type R goodies, and – as we found out on a prototype drive – bodes well for the resurrected nameplate.
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'The suspension and brake systems will be tuned exclusively for the new Prelude to deliver a sporty yet comfortable grand touring driving experience,' said Honda.
Dual-axis was first introduced in the 2017 FK8 Civic Type R – a car we awarded Hot Hatch of the Year – and was subsequently carried over to the FL5 Civic Type R – a car we awarded [cue Ali voice] The Greatest Of All Times.
In short, it works to kill torque steer in powerful front-drive cars. To get technical, Honda added a damper fork to separate the knuckle from the damper, to shorten the centre offset. That's the key. 'With conventional strut suspension, centre offset is structurally difficult to reduce, and has been a problem for many years,' Honda explained.
So killing that meant the Type R gets more stability during 'sudden take-off or acceleration'. And with 320 horsies to play with in the Civic Type R, there's plenty of 'sudden take-off or acceleration'. Better grip through corners, of course.
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What does this mean for a harder, more track-focused Prelude? Honda has thus far refused to fully confirm a Prelude Type R, but slotting in its sibling's brilliant suspension means it's already up to the challenge…
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