The Civic is a compact car that’s mainly known for being a solid choice for commuters. There are certainly drivers out there who would be surprised to learn that there are variants of the Civic that are well respected among hard-core driving enthusiasts for their power and performance. But seeing the Honda Civic Type R for sale should clear up any doubt—this top-tier performance trim has a unique look inside and out, thanks to a rear spoiler, a bold red interior, and the red brake calipers visible through the gaps in its wheels.
But beyond just aesthetics, what makes the Type R unique? Is it really a serious contender among performance cars, or is it just a commuter hatchback dressed up like a racecar? Let’s take a look at some of the performance features that make the Civic Type R stand out from the pack.
A Powerful Turbocharged Engine
The 2.0L Turbocharged VTEC 4-cylinder engine under the hood of the Civic Type R is the most powerful engine you can get in a Honda vehicle in the US. While larger models like the Pilot SUV, Ridgeline pickup, and Odyssey minivan top out at 280 or 285 hp, the Type R produces up to 315 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Putting that big power in this small hatch gives it plenty of punch. Test drivers at Car and Driver found that the 2023 could zoom from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds and complete a quarter mile in 13.5 seconds.
A Standard Manual Transmission
There was a time when calling a stick shift “unique” would have gotten you some weird looks, especially when talking about performance cars. But even among sports cars, the manual transmission is getting rarer and rarer with each passing year. While plenty of drivers don’t care much about this, there are a lot of enthusiasts who would be sad to see it die out completely. That’s because a manual transmission gives you more control over your ride and makes driving a more engaging activity.
The Civic Type R doesn’t just offer a manual—it only offers a manual. That’s a huge deal for a 2024 model and one that has earned Honda the respect of many enthusiasts. The six-speed transmission may be traditional, but it isn’t a dinosaur. This modern take on the stick shift has features like rev-match control, which keeps the vehicle’s speed in line with the engine speed while downshifting, and a shift link mechanism that makes changing gears smoother. This system proves that automakers have more options than just keeping an old manual transmission around or switching to an automatic; there’s a middle ground if you’re willing to teach an old dog some new tricks.
Driving Modes
Going for a new record on a closed track requires different tuning than just driving down the highway. But most of us have to drive down the highway to get to the nearest track, and many drivers need their performance model to double as a daily driver without being too impractical. The Civic Type R certainly has a convenient body for everyday driving needs—it has basically the same passenger and cargo space as the regular Civic hatchback. But can it offer a comfortable ride around town without sacrificing performance at the track?
The answer is yes, thanks to a system of driving modes that adjust the suspension system, steering resistance, throttle response, active damping system, and more to give you the feel you need for the situation at hand. Comfort mode is designed for driving around town or on the highway, Sport mode gives you improved driving dynamics, and Individual mode lets you set your own parameters. Last but not least is +R mode, which is the most extreme option meant for really letting loose at high speeds in a controlled environment.
For the 2023 model year, Honda introduced a new meter design just for the +R mode. This puts vital information like engine rpm gear position and rev indicator lights on the top of the gauge cluster screen, which is easy to glance at quickly. The lower part of the display can be customized to show whatever information you want to have on hand. There’s also an LED shift light that lights up to help you gauge shift points without looking down at the screen at all.
LogR Datalogger
If you’re serious about driving, then you probably want to hone your skills and see how you improve over time. You can’t really do that without keeping track of data about your drives. Instead of making you rely on third-party tech to track your progress, Honda introduced an in-house system for the 2020 Type R. The LogR data logger uses both the vehicle’s interface and your smartphone to let you keep track of how you’re driving.
The system can do simple things like act as a stopwatch while you’re timing laps (either automatically or manually using a button built into the steering wheel), and it can also track more complex things like g-force, tire friction, boost pressure, and engine and oil temperature. After a lap, you can even look at a display that puts your data onto a map, showing you what your metrics were around individual curves and offering advice on how to improve. On your smartphone, you can look at and share this data wherever you are and compare your performance with other drivers.
Triple-Outlet Exhaust
Unwilling to settle for a mere dual exhaust, Honda has graced the Type R with a triple-outlet exhaust system. While the system is certainly tuned for optimal performance, it’s also designed to heighten the driving experience with its sound. Every mode in the drive system has its own specially-tuned exhaust note, giving each one a unique sound and feel.
An Aerodynamic Design
A multitude of elements on the Type R’s exterior come together to give it solid aerodynamics, reducing drag to increase speed. The wide, low hood minimizes airflow resistance while also naturally helping the engine to stay cool so it doesn’t overheat. Side underbody spoilers and the shape of the fenders also manage airflow, working to keep air pressure around the wheels consistent for optimal stability. The rear spoiler in the back isn’t just there for show—it increases downforce and controls air resistance.
An Interior Built for Speed
We’ve established that the Type R can go pretty fast, with a powertrain, exterior design, and a host of systems designed to achieve peak performance. But as a driver, you can only enjoy that speed if you’re prepared to handle its physical ramifications. That’s why the cabin of the Type R is equipped with sport seats that are heavily bolstered to keep the driver firmly in place, even while zooming around corners on a track and possibly surpassing 1 G of force. When you’re feeling secure, you’re more able to maneuver to continue to shift and steer confidently. There are also sport pedals that are designed to provide plenty of grip so you don’t slip at a crucial moment.
Inside and Out, the Type R Is Designed With Performance in Mind
While the Type R shares a fair few components with the more pedestrian Civic Hatchback, there’s plenty of differences between the two. The Type R has unique features ranging from accessories and equipment to modern tech that make it a force to be reckoned with on the track. This hot hatch has put in the leg work to earn its reputation as a car that’s truly thrilling to drive.
