2023 Honda Civic Type R: Is it worth the price?

Honda Malaysia recently introduced the all-new Civic Type R in a CBU form, which carries a hefty price tag of RM 399,900. The latest version of the brand’s high-performance compact sports car is engineered from the ground up and touted as the most powerful model in Type R's glorious 30-year history. However, with a price tag almost 2.5 times higher than the standard Civic and competing with some formidable rivals like the Volkswagen Golf R and Toyota GR Corolla, the question on the minds of potential buyers is whether the new Civic Type R is worth its asking price. So, let’s try to find out the answer.

Look and feel

The first thing that can grab anyone’s attention is the car’s aggressive and sporty appearance. The new Civic Type sports racing-inspired exterior with an aerodynamically athletic character. The front end is dominated by a sporty functional front grille and a more aggressive front bumper while the rear gets a new diffuser for better stability and speed and a redesigned aluminium spoiler.

The car is sprayed with a Championship White exterior tone and incorporates Type R badges and a red Honda logo on the front as well as rear.

Inside, we get an iconic red interior with a performance-focused cockpit, an aluminium centre console, red carpet flooring, and racing-inspired Type R sport seats. The latter are wrapped in a new suede-type fabric offering enhanced comfort and increased support. 

Performance powerhouse

The new Civic Type is powered by a more potent 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine, which is capable of generating 319 PS of maximum power and 420 Nm of peak torque. Sending power to the front wheels is a six-speed manual gearbox (no automatic option is available) that promises an engaging driving experience to enthusiasts. Performance-wise, the car runs from a standstill to 100 kmph in 5.5 seconds and hits a top speed of 272 kmph. 

Handling and driveability

The Civic Type R is equipped with a dual-axis front suspension that now houses new lower arms to enhance camber rigidity, and it also features a limited-slip differential. The hot hatch also benefits from re-tuned adaptive dampers, a significantly improved electric power steering system, and a rear track that is considerably wider. 

Also, parts of the kit are revised Brembo brakes with red callipers, connected to a new master cylinder, concealed behind 19-inch alloy wheels that are slightly smaller than those on the FK8 model. These wheels are fitted with special 265/30R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres. The new Type R also comes with four different driving modes - Comfort, Sport, +R, and a new Individual model that can be customised. This versatility allows it to perform well as a daily driver while transforming into a track-worthy speed demon when needed.

Features 

The new Honda Civic Type R comes equipped with a bucketload of features, including -

• LED headlights with auto function
• LED daytime running lights
• LED tail lights
• 9-inch infotainment unit
• Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity
• 10.2-inch TFT instrument panel

• Type R Alcantara steering wheel
• Wireless charger
• Electronic Parking Brake
• Smart entry with push start button
• Walk away door lock
• Dual auto air conditioning system
• Log R Data Logger

• 8 airbags
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Multi-angle reverse camera 
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Lane Keeping Assist System
• Lane Departure Warning
• Road Departure Mitigation System
• Forward Collision Warning
• Traffic Sign Recognition System
• Auto High Beam Headlights
• Driver Attention Monitoring
• Blind Spot Information System
• Cross Traffic Monitoring

In the end, we conclude that the head-turning looks, thrilling driving experience, and loaded equipment kit make the new Civic Type R worthy of every penny. What are your thoughts? Do let us know in the comments. 

Also read: Honda Accord sedan to be axed in Malaysia