Honda’s Type R legacy spans over three decades, originating as a high-performance variant of the groundbreaking NSX sports car. The NSX-R, introduced in 1992, set the stage for what would become a revered lineage. This legacy was further cemented with the Japanese-market ‘EK9’ Civic Type R in 1997. Fast forward to the present, and the latest FL5-generation Civic Type R is being hailed as the most well-rounded iteration yet, maintaining its hallmark precision and focus. Since its global launch in 2022, every allocation arriving in Australia has sold out, underscoring its popularity among enthusiasts.
The latest version, adorned in new-for-2025 Racing Blue paintwork and featuring an optional $5300 carbon-fiber rear wing, comes with a $4900 price increase, bringing the total to $79,000 drive-away, or $84,300 as pictured. Despite the price hike, the Civic Type R continues to attract buyers with its manual-adjust seats, unbranded sound system, manual transmission, and 9.0-inch multimedia touchscreen. True to its roots, the FL5 remains front-wheel drive.
Performance and Driving Experience
To truly appreciate the Civic Type R, one must experience its driving prowess firsthand. Honda has achieved something remarkable with this front-drive small car. While the Type R has always been known for its everyday excellence, the FL5 takes sophistication to new heights. Despite its 265mm wide, 30-series Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires and minimal ground clearance, the Type R offers adequate bump absorption and quiet operation around town, with no excessive exhaust noise.
The driving experience is enhanced by a smooth clutch take-up and a slick six-speed manual transmission, making the Type R a pleasure to drive in suburban settings. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes to life above 3000rpm, delivering a robust 420Nm of torque and a lively performance beyond 5000rpm, culminating in a 235kW torque peak at 6500rpm. The Type R’s acceleration is impressive, with a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 5.4 seconds, rivaling last-gen naturally aspirated sports cars like the Porsche 911.
Handling and Dynamics
The Civic Type R’s handling is where it truly shines. The front-end grip is so strong that it feels like the car is glued to the road. The sophisticated suspension setup, including dual-axis struts and multi-link rear suspension, minimizes torque steer and enhances stability. Wider tracks, different spring rates, and better adaptive dampers make the FL5 a more confident and poised machine compared to its predecessor, the FK8.
Driving the Type R requires finesse, rewarding drivers who make delicate, considered inputs. The brake pedal provides excellent feedback, while the electric power-assisted steering offers firm, positive weighting and pinpoint accuracy. Torque steer is present but manageable, and the four drive modes—Comfort, Sport, +R, and Individual—allow drivers to tailor the car’s performance to their liking.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Civic Type R features significantly higher-grade materials than competitors like the Toyota Corolla and Volkswagen Golf. The low-set, manual-adjust bucket seats provide excellent support, while the suede-covered steering wheel and tactile metal gear lever enhance the driving experience. The digital driver’s display is clear and legible, complementing the car’s sporty character.
However, the central 9.0-inch screen feels dated, with low contrast and average responsiveness. The eight-speaker sound system lacks bass and power, often drowned out by road noise. Despite these shortcomings, the Civic Type R offers generous rear-seat space and a large boot, making it practical for everyday use.
Market Position and Conclusion
Despite its high price tag, the Civic Type R continues to sell out, a testament to its performance credentials. While it may not offer the flashiest infotainment or the most luxurious features, it excels as a performance car, transcending its humble roots. Honda Australia has confirmed that additional stock is on the way, but eager buyers should act quickly to secure what many consider the greatest hot hatch of the decade.
The Civic Type R proves that with meticulous engineering and a focus on driving dynamics, it’s possible to overcome the limitations of a front-wheel-drive layout. Its inherent rightness and clarity of the human-machine interface make it a standout in the hot hatch segment, ensuring its place in automotive history.
