After a five year wait,
the arrival of one of the most keenly anticipated hot hatch, the Honda Civic Type R.
When the dial on the speedometer zips to the far right of the 200km mark you know you are sitting in a fast car writes Suzanne Keane
What is it? The new Type R Civic from Honda is the fastest and most powerful front wheel drive hatchback available in Europe. Pushing 310bhp through the front wheels it has a top speed of 270kmph and will do 0-100kmph in just 5.7 seconds.
First impressions of the Honda Civic Type R? The Type R styling is very aggressive but each feature serves a specific purpose from the vents to the rear spoiler.
What about the interior? The front bucket seats sit 20mm lower than a standard civic and the entire cabin is a combination of red and black with red double stitching. Red seatbelts are a Type R signature but despite its racing pedigree it’s still as practical to drive and use as a normal civic.
And behind the wheel? The Type R is phenomenal to drive. No matter what bend you throw it into it just wants more and more and it makes track driving effortless. It doesn’t scream like older VTEC engines but the rumble from the exhaust doesn’t disappoint. The R+ button will also stiffen suspension, increase throttle response and enhance feedback through the steering wheel.
Type R on the open road: While on paper it’s as practical as a normal civic in reality it’s very hard to drive a Type R like a normal car. It’s just too much fun!
Type R on the track: This Civic really does make track driving effortless and is extremely forgiving. No matter how hard you push into corners it begs for more.
A flat-bottomed steering wheel preserves maximum knee room
How Much? Prices are yet to be confirmed but emissions are 170g/km so road tax will be €570 and combined fuel consumption stands at 7.3l/100km.
What about my options: There will be 2 trim levels available and both in 5 door. Standard features include the Honda Connect infotainment system from which you can access the rear view camera, phone, radio and allows for full internet connectivity. Air Conditioning, Cruise control and a 6 speaker 180w sound system are also standard equipment. There will be 5 colour choices – Championship White, Crystal Black, Polished Metal, Brilliant Sporty Blue and Milano Red.
3 words to describe the Type R: Fast, Fun, Furious
For more information check out Honda.ie, the Honda Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Suzanne Keane
16th June, 2015
