What Sets the Honda Civic Type R Apart?

The newest Honda Civic Type R showcases a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than 5 seconds. However, what truly sets the Civic Type R apart is its dedication to an exhilarating, gas-powered driving experience, diverging from the current trend towards electrification; plus, it remains exclusively available with a manual stick shift.

Advertisement

Honda’s journey began with the first Civic Type R in 1997, tapping into the hot hatch category with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generated 182 horsepower in a compact three-door hatchback. Over the years, Honda expanded the lineup to include a four-door variant and enhanced performance through increased displacement and turbocharging. We have explored all generations of the Honda Civic Type R, ranked by speed, highlighting the evolution of this impressive model.

Remarkably, this powerful compact vehicle wasn’t available in the U.S. until 2017. Our experience with the 2023 Honda Civic Type R left us thoroughly impressed.

In recent years, manufacturers have rapidly developed electric vehicles, introducing several incredible options for consumers. Look at some of the fastest electric cars currently available for example. Nevertheless, for many dedicated car enthusiasts, the combustion engine remains the cornerstone of automotive excitement.

Advertisement

With performance electric vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N beginning to emerge, there are voices encouraging Honda to enter this space. Toshihiro Akiwa, head of Honda’s BEV Development Centre, hasn’t ruled out the possibility of an EV Type R but stated, as reported by AutoExpress.co.uk, that “[I]t’s not just about power, it’s about the sound, vibration, acceleration, and the human experience. These are the joys of driving.”

Reviews highlight that the Civic Type R delivers ample power, exceptional grip, and harmonious handling, often providing more enjoyment than some overly powerful supercars—all without resorting to electrification. Ars Technica described the vehicle as “addictive,” with a reviewer noting it urged them to embark on early morning drives at 4 am to relish winding roads before the traffic set in. With its agile cornering, rapid acceleration, and reasonably affordable base price, it’s no surprise that the Civic Type R ranks as one of the top choices for street racing.

Advertisement

A defining feature of any hot hatch is a manual gearbox, and the Civic Type R stands out as one of the few remaining models available with this option. In fact, several manual transmission vehicles were phased out in 2025, making it increasingly hard to find them.

Advertisement

While automatic transmissions have seen significant improvements over the years, many enthusiasts believe a manual gearbox forges a stronger connection between the driver and the engine. Engaging more actively with the shifter and clutch enhances the driving experience, allowing for greater control over the vehicle, which amplifies the fun factor as the driver decides on gear selection and timing.

In the case of the Civic Type R, Honda has equipped it with a highly praised six-speed manual transmission known for its smooth and precise clutch operation. Many consider it a great option for those learning to drive a stick-shift, even with its impressive 300 horsepower.