We first caught the 2014 Honda Civic Type R around the middle of last year and it was still in mule-like clothing. This time around, our spy photographers managed to catch real deal -- albeit in heavy camo -- Civic Type R->ke236 prototypes testing on public roads and around the Nurburgring->ke999.

On the public roads, our spy photographers caught Honda benchmarking the Type R against the likes of the Ford Focus RS and the Opel Astra OPC . The competition alone is a clear indication that Honda is preparing an important engine update when the Type R hits the market in 2014.

Rumors suggest and the competition points toward the Type R making use of a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering somewhere in the 300-horsepower range -- an increase of about 100 horsepower over the current generation.

Honda ->ke34 also announced it has big plans for the upcoming Type R, as it is shooting to break the record for front-wheel-drive cars on the Nürburgring. The current record of 8:7.97 is held by the Megane 265 Trophy.

Click past the jump to read more about the Honda Civic Type R.

Spy Shots

The prototypes that our spy photographers caught today are heavily camouflaged, but we already know what to expect from the upcoming Civic Type R. There will be a new front spoiler with large air intakes, wider wheel flares, and a new exhaust system with quad tailpipes.

For improved aerodynamics, Honda will also install a large wing on the rear, while the wheels will be contrasted nicely by red-painted Brembo calipers.