2018 Honda Civic Type R Performance Review

Launched in summer 2017, this fifth-generation Honda Civic Type R (for Racing) is the first to be sold in North America. Its arrival enables US and Canadian buyers to share an experience that European and Asian drivers have enjoyed for two decades – and gives compact performance rivals like the Focus RS and Subaru WRX STI something new to think about.

The 2017 and 2018 Civic Type R’s are essentially identical. Here’s more on the 2017 Type R’s power, interior, and styling specs.

Under the Hood: A 306 Horsepower Civic Sedan

Special engines have been at the heart of previous Type Rs, and this Honda sedan is no exception. A younger, rowdier cousin of the 2.0L DI turbo motor seen in the Accord, the Type R’s 306-horsepower powerplant gets bespoke internals, additional cooling, and a high-flow exhaust system. Clever use of the i-VTEC variable valve timing, lift, and duration technology helps to spool the turbo up quickly, and a peak torque of 295 lb-ft is available from 2,500-4,500rpm.

All Type Rs are built at Honda’s Swindon, UK assembly plant but the engines are made in the Anna, Ohio factory and shipped to the UK for installation. A 6-speed manual transmission and helical limited-slip differential are the only drivetrain options for this driver-focused car.

2018 Honda Civic Type R Driving Impressions

The Type R’s out-there styling – reminiscent of a current World Rally car or top-level touring car racer – tells you everything you need to know about how it drives. It’s as quick as you’ll ever need, both in a straight line and through the twisty stuff: a 0-60mph time of below 6 seconds certainly feels achievable. The quoted maximum is 169mph, but it’s the availability of all that torque from so low down that lets you keep up the momentum.

A dual-axis strut front suspension does a good job of suppressing torque steer without resorting to the AWD drivetrains used by rivals. There’s no appreciable turbo lag, and the gearshift is quick and precise, with an automatic throttle blip on the downshift that adds to the fun on winding canyon roads.

As the motor spins effortlessly up to the 7,000rpm redline, there’s a distinctly metallic, mechanical soundtrack reminiscent of earlier, more manic VTEC units.

Of the three driving modes, the default Sport setting offers a nice compromise of steering weight, ride comfort, and throttle response. Opting for +R provides heavier steering and more aggressive damping that is best suited for track use, while Comfort frees everything up and dulls the throttle a little.

Honda engineers have engaged in a little sound management to add to the visceral experience. Still, the engine note never sounds artificial and avoids the buzziness of some small-capacity turbos. Instead, as the motor spins effortlessly up to the 7,000rpm redline, there’s a distinctly metallic, mechanical soundtrack reminiscent of earlier, more manic VTEC units.

2018 Honda Civic Type R Specs, Price, and Images

2018 Honda Civic Type R Price: In the US, Honda’s sports coupe starts at US$34,700 MSRP; Canadians will pay more at C$41,090 MSRP.