Several words come to mind with this car: impressive, cool and finally.
Finally, we have a new Honda Civic Type R. But hot hatches have changed.
The numbers are promising: 310 PS, 400 Nm and FWD - the quickest on The 'Ring.
Let's find out more then.
The turbo engine is all-new. How is it? There are ups and downs.
It's noisy, burbly and loud. Always. Also, there's quite some lag.
Honda says there's VTEC to compensate, but that's hardly the case.
Mostly below 4000 rpm, it takes a while to get going.
On exits, it can surprise you. But: it's SO quick! Amazing!
Above 4000 rpm, it goes like stink. 0-100 kph in 5.7 seconds.
An FWD car can't go any faster. It's a beast, more so than others.
Also, there's just a manual 'box. A great, short 6-speed.
It's a proper Type R. Not just better, but so much fun too.
The chassis then: not refined, but rough, like a Megane RS.
To handle the power and traction, there's an LSD and special suspension.
It really works, because you get great traction out of corners.
Little torque steer, too! Very well done. It's great in corners.
Very little body roll and direct reactions. It wants to dart around.
It drives really well - and brakes like that, too. Hardcore!
Also, there's the +R button, which tightens everything up.
But it becomes too rough with that, though other systems really improve.
A shame you can't adjust them seperately. Back to non-plus R then.
It's not refined. The seat is too high, the pedals are far apart and that sound...
You have to like its looks. It's not an allround hot hatch, it's a Civic Type R.
It's really good fun!
+ Brute force; Great 6-speed 'box
- Noisy engine; The price...