Honda Civic Type-R

Civic Type R's bright future

While all eyes were on Detroit last week for the US's biggest motor show, another exhibition was putting its own stunning metal on display in Japan. And the Tokyo Auto Salon had a few surprises.

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Mugen Dominator is based on two-door Civic, and hints at new Type R

By Peter Lyon/Pictures: Rob Gilhooly

16th January 2006

The awesome Honda Mugen Dominator is a supercharged version of the two-door Japan-spec Civic. Developing a massive 300bhp, it hints at what we can expect from the European Type R version, which will debut at March's Geneva Motor Show, before going on sale early next year. Developed by tuning arm Mugen primarily for the Japanese market, the two-door has been confirmed for production. While none of the specialist Hondas will be officially brought to the UK, private importers are sure to be keen to ship examples to Britain for Japanese performance car enthusiasts.

Another star of the Tokyo event was an official tuned version of Mazda's new MX-5. The work of Mazdaspeed - the firm's performance division - the roadster features an aggressive bodykit and large-diameter alloys to provide a muscular look.

Engineers raided high-performance parts bins to give the car stiffer suspension and uprated four-piston brakes. The best news is that a positive reaction from showgoers could see Mazda bosses consider selling the flagship both in Japan and Europe.

The firm also revealed a 300bhp version of its 6 saloon, as well as a turbocharged MPV which is set to become a production reality in the home market.

Meanwhile, Nissan displayed a hot-shot of its own, too. The Nismo 350Z RS Concept is based on the Japan-only S-tune variant. With virtually every aspect of the engine upgraded, the performance model has more than 350bhp, and boasts a raft of chassis modifications to make it the ultimate trackday Nissan.