Skip advert
Advertisement

Honda Civic Type R

Winner: Honda Civic Type R, commended MINI Cooper S and RenaultSport Clio

Replacing a legend is never easy – but Honda has done just that with the amazing Civic Type R. With competition from the likes of Ford, Vauxhall and Renault, the firm couldn’t have picked a tougher time to introduce its second-generation model. The fact that it has done so with a machine that betters the original in every department is a tribute to the Japanese company’s engineering vision.

So what made it a winner? Well, despite being down on power compared to its big-hitting rivals – its 2.0-litre VTEC-assisted engine produces 198bhp – it’s the way in which the Civic deploys it that impresses. Finesse has always been a Honda trait and once again,
the Type R displays a level of delicacy that none of its rivals can match. The Civic is a car that shrinks around you, and like all great hot hatches, responds directly and faithfully to every input. Yes, there are quicker alternatives with more power and better acceleration figures. But in terms of real-world appeal and, more importantly, driver feedback, the Type R stands head and shoulders above its rivals.

The Civic also scores in the design stakes, too – it could almost
be described as automotive sculpture. From its striking all-in-one nose to the double-deck spoiler at the back, there’s not a duff line
on it. The no-holds-barred approach extends to the cabin, where the space-age dashboard and dual-level display show just how hard Honda has tried this time around. A worthy winner of this year’s title.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Honda Civic review
Honda Civic - front tracking
In-depth reviews

Honda Civic review

The hybrid-powered Honda Civic is a frugal, well-equipped family hatchback that really impresses
5 Jan 2024

Most Popular

Road tax set to rise in April: here’s how much more you’ll pay
Road tax documentation
News

Road tax set to rise in April: here’s how much more you’ll pay

Drivers with newer cars can expect to be paying roughly £10 more per year, a although the biggest gas guzzlers will fare the worst
26 Mar 2024
Posh new trim level for Dacia Sandero while the Sandero Stepway gets more power
Dacia Sandero - front
News

Posh new trim level for Dacia Sandero while the Sandero Stepway gets more power

Both the Sandero and Sandero Stepway ranges have been tweaked, gaining more safety features to meet the latest regulations
26 Mar 2024
Huge Audi new car blitz to bring us 9 models in 2 years
Upcoming Audi models - four-way image
News

Huge Audi new car blitz to bring us 9 models in 2 years

After a quiet few years, the German giant is gearing up for its biggest product onslaught to date
25 Mar 2024