Honda Civic Type R Full Review: Is this the Ultimate Hot Hatch?

Watch Vicki Butler-Henderson review the Honda Civic Type R:

Join Vicki Butler-Henderson as she explores the latest iteration of the legendary Honda Civic Type R, a hot hatch that has thrilled drivers for nearly 30 years. Now priced at £50,000, this latest model continues to blend aggressive styling with the performance that has kept it at the top of the hot hatch category for decades. Featuring a turbocharged engine, precise six-speed manual gearbox, and nimble chassis, the new Type R promises to impress both road and track enthusiasts alike.

Specifications:
Price: £50,000
Engine: 2.0-litre VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder
Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 5.4 seconds
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Top Speed: 169 mph
Colours: Two standard options (Rallye Red, Crystal Black Pearl) and three premium options (Championship White, Sonic Gray Pearl, Boost Blue Pearl)
Storage Capacity: 410 litres, expanding to 1,200 with rear seats down

Exterior & Design

The Honda Civic Type R’s latest design strikes a fine balance between subtlety and aggression. At the front, the iconic red Honda badge pays homage to the brand’s racing heritage, complemented by slim bonnet air vents and muscular wheel arches that give the car a purposeful stance. The rear, however, embraces a bolder look with a triple exhaust system that adds not only to its aesthetics but also to the sportier exhaust note when you push the throttle.

When it comes to practicality, the Type R offers a generous 410 litres of boot space—more than the VW Golf R. This capacity expands to over 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded, making the Civic Type R not just an exciting hot hatch but also a practical choice for everyday use.

Interior Features

Inside, the Civic Type R’s cabin is all about creating a fun, engaging driving experience. Vivid red seats and accents bring the interior to life, while a blend of physical buttons and touchscreen controls makes the layout user-friendly. The suede-wrapped steering wheel and manual gear stick add a tactile quality, enhancing the connection between driver and machine. Rear seating is limited, with no third seatbelt, but legroom is generous enough to fit two six-footers comfortably.

The Honda Civic Type R offers a range of driving modes to suit various environments. The Comfort mode provides a more relaxed drive, while Sport sharpens the car's responses. Individual mode allows for personalised settings, and the track-focused +R mode increases the car’s responsiveness for high-performance driving. For those who want to measure their performance, the Honda LogR system monitors and logs driving data, helping drivers improve their on-track performance.

Tyre Talk

The Honda Civic Type R rides on Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres, which were recently recognised as the top choice for high-performance cars in the DriverReviews Customer Choice Awards. Earning a standout 4.8 out of 5 stars from thousands of drivers, these tyres are celebrated for their excellent grip, precise cornering, and dependable braking, making them a great match for both everyday driving and spirited track use.

Featuring Michelin Pilot Sport Technologies, they deliver a balanced mix of control, stability, and responsiveness. Designed for enduring performance, these tyres ensure an exhilarating driving experience on both the road and the track.

Performance & Handling

Under the bonnet, the 2.0-litre VTEC turbocharged engine pushes out an impressive 329 BHP, making the Civic Type R a formidable front-wheel-drive machine. Vicki highlights how the six-speed manual transmission is a “joy to use,” with precision gear changes that enhance the driving experience. The rev-match control system further smooths downshifts, while the 420 Nm of torque ensures quick acceleration with minimal torque steer, keeping the steering controlled even under hard acceleration.

With its responsive handling and lightweight kerb weight of just over 1,500 kg, the Civic Type R remains agile and planted in tight bends. Brembo brakes ensure reliable stopping power, while the adaptive damper system adjusts the car's ride for maximum control in various driving conditions.

On the Road

Despite its track-oriented DNA, the Civic Type R is entirely road-legal and delivers a thrilling yet composed driving experience on public roads. Its suspension keeps the car firm but manageable, though Vicki notes that the ride can be slightly harsh on rough city streets. At motorway speeds, the cabin is a bit noisy, but the driving experience remains engaging, particularly with the car’s responsive steering and nimble handling. The overall balance between performance and everyday usability makes the Civic Type R a standout in the hot hatch market.

Vicki’s Verdict

"If you want your hot hatch to make a statement, then look no further. Plus, you will have as much fun behind the wheel as any kid in a playground."

Vicki is highly impressed with the Civic Type R's playful handling and sharp manual gearbox, emphasising how controlled and smooth the car feels even with its 329 BHP sent through the front wheels. At £50,000—slightly more expensive than the VW Golf R—the Type R still stands out for its distinctive design and engaging driving dynamics. Minor inconveniences, like the firm ride and cabin noise at motorway speeds, are easily forgiven when considering the overall performance and fun factor that this hot hatch delivers.

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