First Drive: Honda Civic Type R

Honda Civic Type R: Embracing the Possible End of an Era

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We are approaching a new era in automotive engineering. So, with bittersweet sentiment, we've driven the latest iteration of the Honda Civic Type R. This name has captured the hearts and imaginations of car enthusiasts for generations. As the industry continues to embrace environmentally friendly solutions and transitions towards electrification, this iteration may very well represent the final chapter of a storied history driven by combustion engines.

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I’ve often been told by friends and colleagues within the industry that the outgoing Civic Type-R transcends mere description and must instead be experienced since this marvel of engineering defies the odds as a front-wheel-drive vehicle. While it may not boast the quickest acceleration to 100 km/h, its insatiable appetite for being thrown and manhandled through corners while urging you to push harder is nothing short of impressive. It's unfortunate that this could be the last Type R as we know it. Before developing a hybrid version of this masterpiece, though, Honda gifted us with something truly extraordinary. 

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Driving Impressions

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The Honda Civic Type R is formidable with its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine delivering a sturdy 235 kW and 420 Nm of torque. This power figure enables the Type R to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a still-commendable 5.4 seconds. However, these figures seem almost like an afterthought compared to the truly brilliant driving experience it delivers.

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It recently claimed the title as the fastest front-wheel-drive production car around the Nordschleife circuit; it's not unreasonable to anticipate unwelcome surprises like torque steer or understeer. Still, the Type R masterfully sidesteps these typically front-wheel-driven pitfalls. 

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The old-school way it lays down the power, with all the right modern touches, makes this car well-balanced. The revs must be built up to unlock the boost, but the Civic doesn't want to slow down once engaged. Its 4-piston Brembo brakes offer the ability to stop on a dime, but the engine remains incredibly lively.

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I was astounded by the amount of grip this “hatch” offered while negotiating corners. There is no sign of understeer as the chassis reacts in a way that supports the driver's ambitions. To unsettle the rear, a corner entry must be thoroughly overcooked; even then, a small correctional input quickly regains control. 

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Similar to its predecessor, the ride may be somewhat firm, especially when travelling at speed. Since the Type R features a highly complex aero kit that presses the vehicle into the tarmac at high speeds, it provides excellent stability. 

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I must mention the gearbox's short, smooth throw, brilliant synchronisation, and effective auto rev-matching system. I found myself down-shifting and up-shifting in traffic just for the heck of it. 

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Exterior Design Evolution

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The Type-R has consistently been a daring car, occasionally garnering the reputation of a boy racer's vehicle. This perception largely stems from its race-inspired aerodynamic features, such as the rear wing, canards, and other performance-oriented components. The new Type R, however, refines this image, maintaining the tradition of pronounced wings and assertive styling while adding a touch of sophistication.

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The styling isn't overly bold and should appeal to a relatively broad audience. Although purists may take issue with the racing-influenced aerodynamics, the latest iteration has toned them down somewhat, a change I find appealing. 

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The squared front end and more linear rear end have removed some of the traditional Type R aggression, yet these design elements serve an essential purpose. Not to bombard you with numbers, but the rear wing generates 580 Nm of downforce, with the front bumper and undercover contributing an additional 207 Nm. No wonder it's so sticky around the corners. 

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The new Type R is now longer, wider, and lower than its predecessor, and quite frankly, it's hard not to love the look. The front end is both aggressive and streamlined, while the rear retains the rounded shape seen in previous Civics, albeit flatter. This poses an issue for me as this Type-R is no longer a hatch by exterior definition, shaped more like a fastback or sedan. 

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Race-Inspired Comfort 

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Upon entering the Type R, the striking use of red, a longstanding Type R tradition, instantly catches the eye. Red seats, floor mats, carpets, and seatbelts evoke a sense of excitement behind the wheel. 

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One particularly impressive aspect of the Type R's interior is the abundant space, especially in the rear. Offering more legroom than many SUVs I have driven, it ensures a comfortable ride for passengers. The red cloth seats, adorned with the Type R logo embroidered on the headrests, provide comfort and excellent support during cornering.

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The interior has a retro touch, which I particularly appreciated as the air-conditioned outlets are controlled via a joystick. To optimise the perception of space, the dash is laid out to favour horizontally-biased lines with hexagonal styling touches adorning the dashboard. The Civic has a 9" infotainment screen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, offering a universal, user-friendly experience. 

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The driving modes offer four options, each altering the driver's display. Comfort mode presents an elegant display while softening the ride quality, exhaust note, and steering feel, slightly decelerating the auto rev-matching feature for a more relaxed drive. Sport mode transforms the display into an aggressive red hue, firms up the ride quality, and sharpens the exhaust note and steering feel while still maintaining an overall comfortable driving experience. 

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R+ is the most extreme setting the Type R offers, transforming the car into a monster, opening up the exhaust to produce a heck of a racket, producing an even firmer ride, sharper steering, and faster rev matching – ideal for track use. Lastly, the Individual mode allows drivers to customise their experience according to their preferences.

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Warranties and Paperwork

Priced at R979,000, the Type R comes with a 5-year/200,000 km warranty, a 5-year/90,000 km service plan, and 3-year roadside assistance.

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Modern Performance with an Old-School Soul

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The Honda Civic Type R is an exceptional performance car in every regard. It looks the part, feels the part and performs spectacularly. It's truly a driver's car at its core, requiring skill and finesse to unlock its full potential. For now, only 60 units will be available in South Africa, which is a shame. 

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The Civic was conceived with the Type R as its primary focus, ensuring that every feature serves a purpose and nothing more. Although the price point may be a concern, it is hard to find a hot hatch under R1 million that offers the level of enjoyment found in this Type R – though the i30 N comes close. 

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As the era of the Type R draws to a close, Honda has undoubtedly concluded with a resounding bang. This feisty Honda seamlessly blends an old-school feel with modernity and levels of grip that can scare even the most seasoned passengers.

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