Honda Civic Type-R (01-05) - Review

That boxy shape affords a decent amount of rear seat space, and the front seat backs have been shaped to allow maximum knee space for rear occupants. The flat floor helps, too, freeing up space that would otherwise have been taken up by the transmission tunnel. Neat detailing is attractive and understated, such as the metal name plate on the centre console and red Honda badges. We'd always go for a model with air con (a £1,000 option) - it makes backroad blasts that bit more comfortable.

The rear seats split/fold for added practicality although there is no five door option (that's the not-so-manic Type-S). The boot is reasonably generous thanks to the fact that the Civic is one of the roomiest. The rear is easy to access and the centre console bin is ideal for hiding CDs and contains a drinks holder.

A first-class driving position. Driver and front passenger get proper bucket seats for maximum support when blasting about. The gearlever pokes from the dash about six inches from your left hand – it's perfectly placed. All switches and buttons are clearly placed on the dash; stereo volume is on the right (usually it's on the left), so the driver doesn't have to overstretch. Good pedal positions and a cabin comfortable enough for longer distance trips. Large glass areas and a well thought-out driving position gives good all-round visibility.