Honda Civic Type R (07-10) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 25 March 2009
While many hot hatches are aiming for headline grabbing power figures, Honda has stuck to the basic principles of driver appeal for the Civic Type-R. It boasts 200bhp from a non-turbocharged engine, which is fairly modest when compared to rivals like the Ford Focus ST or SEAT Leon Cupra. However the Type-R is the most involving and rewarding performance hatchback on the market thanks to it's light weight, razor-sharp steering and a perfectly balanced chassis. That engine does need to be worked hard though and with a firm ride the Type-R is an uncompromising car. It's not as rounded as some rivals and not particularly easy to live with day to day, but for unadulterated driving fun it's very much a modern car with an old school hot hatch feel.
4.5 out of 5

Other Honda reviews

3.5 out of 5

Safety

The Civic only scored four stars in the Euro NCAP crash test ratings at a time when most alternatives have been awarded five. The Type-R gets six airbags as standard, electronic stability control, seatbelt pre-tensioners and Isofix child seat mounting points.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Child Protection Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    3 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

Honda has an excellent reputation for reliability and claims to have never had a failure on one of its VTEC engines. A well-maintained Type R should offer years of trouble free motoring.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

Some owners reported a fault where the handbrake might not apply properly if pulled up when pushing the release button. Applying the handbrake without pushing the release button will keep the car stationary, but Honda is offering customers an upgraded handbrake free of charge.