Honda builds the fifth-generation Civic Type R in the UK, and the Swindon factory has a special projects division within its Product Engineering department. The team is responsible for Honda UK's voluntary race team, Synchro Motorsport, and if you ever wondered what such a crew could do with a spare pre-production vehicle, here's a solid answer:

Honda UK

Finished in Rallye Red, "Project P" was built for the UK's annual Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Test Day. Honda's power tool masters changed pretty much everything from the B-pillars back, but kept the all-important wing, which is movable to allow direct and unfettered access to the cargo bed.

And since Project P is basically a standard Type R sans hatch, it is estimated to complete the 0-62mph sprint in under six seconds and reach a top speed of over 165mph. Go further by engaging +R mode, and it should also be the fastest front-wheel drive pickup on track, which is something Honda may end up demonstrating at the Nürburgring.

Sadly, there are no plans to put the Civic Type R Project P into production, but Honda UK will use it "to transport Honda's lawn and garden products as and when required.”

Honda UK

Honda UK

Honda UK

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