Swindon to make Honda cars for Japanese market

Civic Type R will be shipped to Far East from the UK

Cars made at Honda's plant in Swindon are to be shipped to the other side of the world to be sold in the Japanese market.

The 'coals to Newcastle' policy rubber-stamps Honda's decision to make its UK facility the global production hub for the Civic five door model. The Japanese carmaker is to invest £200 million at the Swindon plant, bringing total investment to £2.2 billion since 1985.

The first of the new Civic Type R hatchbacks to be shipped from Honda UK plant are due to arrive in Japanese showrooms from autumn this year.

Philip Ross, senior vice-president for Honda Motor Europe, said: “We're delighted that the European Civic Type R will be sold to customers in Honda's home country of Japan. Customers are really excited about this car and we're developing a significant order bank here in Europe. Exporting the car to Japan will only serve to increase demand further.”

The first Civic Type R rolled off the production line at Swindon last week. Speaking at the start of mass production, Honda Motor Company chief executive Takahiro Hachigo said: “The new Civic Type R is a significant model for Honda, representing our racing spirit and demonstrating our commitment to innovation and passion.

“Here at Honda UK manufacturing, we are extremely proud to be the only manufacturer of the Civic Type R in the world. Our high standards have earned us this privilege and this is testament to the continued commitment of our associates.”

The Honda Civic Type R is sporty front-wheel drive hatchback with an all-new two litre turbo engine. Peak power output is 306BHP, with the engine red-lining at 7,000rpm, delivering a top speed of 167mph. The engine features an advanced new turbocharging system which incorporates Honda’s Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) technology to boost low-end torque while delivering sustained acceleration.