Skip advert
Advertisement

Honda Civic Type R

The Type R version of the Honda Civic is not only the best hot hatch, its chassis makes it one of the best drivers' cars, full stop

Surprised? Don’t be. Not only is the Type R the highest-placed hot hatch here, but it also finishes ahead of the Lamborghini and the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. It’s that good.

There are quicker and more comfortable rivals, yet few can match the Civic Type R’s engaging nature. It’s a car that simply becomes more enjoyable the longer you spend behind wheel.

True, the normally aspirated 2.0-litre VTEC engine produces only 198bhp. But as Honda points out, a great hot hatch isn’t only about statistics. What’s impressive about the unit is the way in which it deploys its power. It’s punchy low down, yet take it above 5,400rpm and it comes alive, before screaming all the way up to the red line.

A snappy gearchange makes it easy to keep the unit at its peak, while the high-pitched engine note adds to the hot hatch experience. It’s fair to say the Civic can be a pretty frantic machine – however, it really excels on A and B-roads, thanks to the superbly responsive steering and communicative chassis. In fact, the Type R is sublime, with great traction, balance and precision.

It lived up to these standards on the test track as well. Although the steering could do with a bit more feedback, the resolute way in which it held a line going into corners was excellent. And with practically no body roll, the Honda always felt stable and reassuring – even when going through the Anglesey circuit’s fastest bends.

What comes across most about the hot Honda is how the major components – engine, suspension, chassis, gearbox, steering – work in such harmony. Add them together, and you’ve got the best of the breed.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Continue Reading

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Geely EX5 SUV to arrive in October, starting at £32k
Geely EX5 - front

New Geely EX5 SUV to arrive in October, starting at £32k

This new electric SUV is coming soon to the UK from Volvo and Lotus parent company, Geely
News
15 Sep 2025
Nissan Qashqai to finally go electric, but hybrid model will remain
Nissan Qashqai electric render Avarvarii - front 3/4

Nissan Qashqai to finally go electric, but hybrid model will remain

There will be an overlap of powertrains for the big-selling SUV
News
15 Sep 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Savour the Scandi cool of a Polestar 4 at only £334 a month
Polestar 4 - cornering, low shot

Car Deal of the Day: Savour the Scandi cool of a Polestar 4 at only £334 a month

Fancy something smart and sophisticated? You won’t look back with the Polestar 4. It’s our Deal of the Day for September 13
News
13 Sep 2025