2023 Honda Civic Type R review

The latest Honda Civic Type R pushes the limits of an already impressive hot hatch

The first Honda Civic Type R was launched here in 2007 and its high-revving, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine and sound chassis dynamics invited comparison with the Volkswagen GTi, Mini Cooper S and Renault RS Megane.

It has been in and out of the Civic range ever since and this sixth generation is the latest interpretation in its storied journey.

2023 Honda Civic Type R pricing

Demand for the new model has been so strong that Honda Australia procured an additional 500 units to help fill the order book, with delivery times stretching well into 2024.

As well as being patient, Type R fans are a well-heeled bunch, with the new model priced at $72,600 drive away.

This pricing puts it above the rest of the FWD hot hatch brigade and positions it against the likes of Volkswagen’s AWD Golf R and Toyota’s Corolla GR AWD hatch.

2023 Honda Civic Type R power and handling

At the heart of the R is Honda’s revised 2.0-litre turbocharged VTEC four-cylinder engine developing 235kW and 420Nm – an increase of 7kW and 20Nm over the previous generation.

Matched to a six-speed manual transmission, the all-alloy engine spins to 6500rpm, using a lightweight forged steel crankshaft and hollow camshafts to reduce reciprocating mass.

Harnessing the power and torque is a limited slip differential, and a dual-axis front strut suspension setup that features alloy steering knuckles and lower control arms.

A wider section 265/30R19 Michelin tyre delivers a bigger footprint and it’s fitted to a new-design alloy wheel that optimises the tyre’s contact with the tarmac while cornering.

The R’s adaptive damper system now has four settings after the inclusion of individual mode, which allows the selection of preferred settings for engine responsiveness, steering assistance, suspension and gauges.

Four-piston Brembo callipers clamp brake pads to a 350mm front disc, while a solid 300mm disc package features at the rear.

2023 Honda Civic Type R features and design

Grab a pair of sunnies or be prepared to be dazzled by the interior’s lurid red trim.

The front seats are fixed-headrest sport seats with deep side bolstering to hold you securely without being overly tight or restrictive. Rather than leather, a black suede sports steering wheel is ahead of the driver and frames a multi-configurable instrument cluster.

2023 Honda Civic Type R performance

While the Type R has morphed from a small hot hatch to a more overt facsimile of the Type R race car during its lifespan, one attribute that hasn’t changed is its docile attitude and relaxed manner for drivers who aren’t as focused on the next corner apex.

The Type R’s light clutch, slick-shifting short throw gear lever and good ergonomics make it as comfortable around town as any mainstream hatch. All this blathering will be academic to the target audience, though, and this latest iteration is a special deal.

It’s hard to fathom that so much power and torque is transferred to the road through the front wheels, while maximum torque starts at 2600rpm and the engine delivers solidly all the way to the 6500rpm limit. It’s doubtful there’s another sports hatch as dynamic through a series of corners.

The R only starts to get fidgety when the road surface deteriorates, upsetting the firm suspension. There’s an occasional faint jiggle through the steering wheel when accelerating out of rough bitumen sections, but it’s hardly intrusive.

It can even be mitigated via the individual drive mode settings, where the adaptive damper setup can be dialled back and the preferred steering weight set. The system is easily accessible through the central infotainment screen.

2023 Honda Civic Type R verdict

So, is the Type R worth the wait? The answer is a resounding yes – if you can get your hands on one. – Tim Pomroy

Features

• Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo
• Transmission: six-speed manual
• Power: 235kW
• Torque: 420Nm
• Fuel consumption: 8.9L/100km (claimed)
• ANCAP: Not rated
• Price: From $72,600 (drive away)