By: Krish Persaud
January 11, 2024
Los Angeles, California – The Honda Civic Type R, introduced in 1997, has evolved into a distinguished emblem of high-performance within the Civic lineup. Rooted in the success of the Integra Type R, the Civic Type R initially focused on lightweight design and VTEC technology, offering enthusiasts an engaging driving experience. The EP3 generation (2001-2005) and subsequent FN2 and FD2 models continued to refine the Type R formula. Globalization efforts expanded its availability, leading to the FK2 and FK8 generations, showcasing turbocharged power, aerodynamic efficiency, and record-breaking track performance. The current generation maintains the Type R legacy, blending turbocharged performance with distinctive design elements, solidifying its status as a beloved and accessible high-performance sports car.
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R, painted in the iconic Championship White, stands as the pinnacle of hot hatch excellence seamlessly combining performance, practicality, and distinctive styling. This latest iteration solidifies Honda’s commitment to delivering a thrilling driving experience without compromising everyday usability. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Honda Canada Inc. and American Honda Motor Co., Ltd. for their invaluable support in facilitating our 4-day loan in sunny Los Angeles, California.
The Type R’s performance prowess extends beyond raw power. This hot hatch exhibits exceptional handling and cornering capabilities with its track-tuned suspension, adaptive dampers, and limited-slip differential. The chassis is finely tuned to deliver a responsive and agile driving experience making it equally at home on twisty backroads and the racetrack. Our first-hand experience through canyon carving instilled sheer confidence in every curve, hairpin, and straightaway revealing that this suspension setup was engineered to near perfection. Despite feeling like an AWD track beast, it reveals its front-wheel drive setup under wet conditions with noticeable understeer.
At the heart of the Civic Type R lies a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, generating an impressive 315-horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This front-wheel-drive dynamo is mated to a slick six-speed manual transmission which is one of the best shifters in the business.
The Type R boasts substantial Brembo brakes featuring 13.8-inch front rotors and 4-piston front calipers coupled with 12-inch rear rotors. This setup delivers exceptional stopping power, instilling confidence for consistent deceleration, even during spirited driving. Complementing this braking capability are the Michelin Pilot SPORT 4S tires.
Adding to the Type R’s performance excellence is the rev-matching system. This innovative technology ensures precise downshifts by blipping the throttle to match engine and wheel speeds. The result is a smoother and more controlled gear change enhancing the overall driving experience.
Standard safety features in the Type R include the Honda Sensing system, which now incorporates the traffic sign recognition system, blind-spot information system, and rear cross-traffic monitoring.
As we jumped into the Type R, it continued to impress with a driver-focused interior. The new and improved body-stabilizing red sport seats are incredibly supportive and well-bolstered, showing no issues in keeping us snugly in position during spirited drives while the unique red accents throughout the cabin add a sporty flair. The ergonomically designed cockpit ensures that essential controls are within easy reach, emphasizing the performance-oriented nature.
The infotainment system is centered around a 9-inch touchscreen offering easy access to navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the primary focus is on driving, Honda hasn’t neglected connectivity features ensuring that you stay connected even during exhilarating drives. Notably, our experience with wireless Apple CarPlay was a bit of a struggle with some resolution issues on the screen. Once the USB cable was introduced, those issues were resolved.
Our 2023 Honda Civic Type R came with a 12-speaker Bose premium system that worked wonderfully at representing almost all audio notes we listened to during our drives, especially in the well-known gridlock traffic situations we found ourselves in on the interstate freeways. However, we often found ourselves opting not to use the system when desiring to revel in the exhilarating sounds emanating from the exhaust.
Unlike some of its competitors, the Civic Type R doesn’t sacrifice practicality. With a spacious and well-designed interior, comfortable seating for four adults, and a versatile cargo area, it maintains the everyday usability that sets it apart in the hot hatch segment. The cargo capacity of 1,204 litres, achieved when the rear seats are folded down, further enhances its practicality, offering ample space for various storage needs.
The Civic Type R provides a range of driving modes allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. From ‘Comfort’ for daily commuting to ‘+R’ for spirited drives, these modes adjust parameters like throttle response, steering, and suspension stiffness, offering a versatile driving experience. No one was complaining about the suspension during our tests; even passengers were happy.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Civic Type R, according to Natural Resources Canada, boasts ratings of 10.8L/100km (22 MPG) in the city, 8.3L/100km (28 MPG) on the highway, and a combined 9.7L/100km (24 MPG). Throughout our testing, which included spirited driving and highway conditions, we achieved a fuel consumption of 9.3L/100km (25 MPG). The 47-litre fuel tank does not have a requirement for premium fuel, but it is highly recommended.
With a starting price around $50,050 ($43,795 USD), the Civic Type R offers a compelling value proposition in the hot hatch segment. Its combination of performance, practicality, and distinctive styling makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a thrilling yet versatile driving experience.
The 2023 Honda Civic Type R is a masterclass in hot hatch engineering. It seamlessly blends power, precision, and practicality, setting a benchmark for the segment. Whether you’re carving through corners on a track or cruising through city streets, the Civic Type R delivers an exhilarating experience that few can match. Competing with distinguished models like the Volkswagen Golf R and other top contenders in the hot hatch category, the Civic Type R stands out with its bold styling, engaging driving dynamics, and everyday usability. It serves as a testament to Honda’s commitment to creating vehicles that transcend the ordinary, offering enthusiasts a unique and compelling driving experience. While we had a good time with the Civic Type R, we couldn’t help but feel that we would personally be more comfortable in the Integra Type S, its sibling.
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