Civic Type R – Honda launched the all-new Civic Type R earlier this year. The sixth-generation model comes at a time when the market is moving away from small, dedicated sports cars, which is a shame.
First up it looks the part with low sleek 4 door hatchback design, huge rear spoiler, ultra-low profile tyres and a tri exhaust system.
I have to say it certainly attracted a lot of attention when I was driving it.
It also has a delightful exhaust note courtesy of the tri exhaust outlets.
The Civic Type R is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 235kW of power and 420 Nm of torque. This drives the front wheels through a smooth six speed manual transmission.
While there isn’t an official 0-100kmh time it should do mid to high 5.0 second times.
The interior is sports car focused with red sports seats and trim, an abundance of information available through the 9-inch central touch screen and an Alcantara sports steering wheel.
Overall, the Civic Type R is responsive and a lot of fun to drive.
The latest model is priced from $72,600 plus the usual costs.
This is a Motoring Minute
I’m Rob Fraser
TO LISTEN TO THE CIVIC TYPE R RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW
Honda Civic Type R Video Review
Honda Civic Type R more thoughts
Many years ago, I owned a Honda CRX, a 1989 or 90 model I think it was. It was a practical hot hatch style vehicle. Essentially it was a go cart. Low to the ground, gripped corners like a limpet and useable performance when you worked the transmission. It wasn’t the fastest, but it was HUGE fun.
The hatchback styling was also immensely practical. We used to pack a lawn mower and whipper snipper in it and head to the beach house to mow the lawn.
Fast forward to 2023 and the latest Type R feels similar. It retains the hatch practicality; it grips like a limpet and is FUN to drive.
I must be getting a bit older (obviously), but the suspension sometimes feels a little harsh for everyday driving and the torque steer adds to the excitement.
Civic Type R features highlights
Honda Civic Type R is equipped with a wide-ranging list of new features and technologies, including:
- Newly developed 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine with increased power and torque
- Individual drive mode in addition to Comfort, Sport, and +R
- Active exhaust valve
- Wider 265/30/R19 size Michelin Pilot 4S tires
- Customisable 10.2-inch high-definition full colour digital driver information display
- Traffic Sign Recognition System
- Intelligent Speed Limiter
- Driver Attention Monitor
- Knee Airbags- driver and front passenger
- 9-inch Advanced Display Audio touchscreen system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Wireless phone charger
- Honda Connect
- In-built Honda LogR
- Satellite navigation
- Acoustic windscreen
- ‘Smart Clear Wiper’ windscreen wiper/ washer system
- Auto-retractable door mirrors
- Full suede-effect seat trim
- Ambient door trim and front footwell lighting
What is good? |
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What is not so good? |
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Unfortunately, the small sports car segment is slowly contracting. Hot hatches were huge many years ago but are now being replaced by small SUVs or even electric cars.
Buyers could look at the Toyota GR Corolla, Subaru WRX, Hyundai i30N, Audi S3, Renault Megane RS, or even the Audi SQ2.
If you don’t mind having no exhaust blip, then you could look at the Kia EV6 GT Line, Subaru Solterra, or Hyundai IONIQ5.
Honda Civic Type R final thoughts
In a world that is heading towards SUVs and EVs, cars like the Civic Type R restore order.
It looks great, feels awesome to drive and isn’t too expensive.
It’s a practical sports hatch that provides enormous fun.
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