Overview: Honda Civic Type R
315 horsepower, FWD lap records, and Honda reliability.
The 2026 Honda Civic Type R remains the king of front-wheel-drive performance. A 2.0L turbocharged engine produces 315 horsepower routed exclusively through a six-speed manual transmission and a helical limited-slip differential. Active dampers, lightweight forged wheels with sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, Brembo brakes, and an aggressive (but functional) aero package combine for a car that has set front-wheel-drive lap records at Suzuka, the Nürburgring, Lime Rock, and others. Drive it to work Monday, take it to the track Saturday — same car, no compromises.
Available Trim Levels & Pricing
| Trim | MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Type R | $45,290 | 315 hp turbo 6-speed manual Helical LSD Brembo brakes Active dampers Michelin Pilot Sport 4S |
Complete Specifications
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged i-VTEC 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 315 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Economy | 22 city / 28 hwy / 24 combined |
| Seating | 4 passengers |
| Cargo Space | 24.5 cu ft |
| Length × Width × Height | 180.9" × 74.4" × 55.4" |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" |
| Curb Weight | 3,188 lbs |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal |
✓ Pros
- Set FWD track records around the world
- Best manual gearbox in the segment
- Surprisingly comfortable everyday
- Brembo brakes are legitimate
- Cargo room of a hatchback
✗ Cons
- Loud at highway speeds
- Bright red Recaros aren't subtle
- FWD limits launch grip
- Only one color combination per trim
- Markups still common at dealers
Standard Features
- Brembo 4-piston front calipers
- Active dampers (Comfort/Sport/+R)
- Helical LSD
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
- Forged 19-inch wheels
- Recaro front seats
- LogR data logger
- Honda Sensing 360
Available Optional Features
- Honda accessory full-floor mats
- Cargo organizers
How It Compares to Competitors
The Civic Type R's main rivals — Hyundai Elantra N, VW Golf R, and Toyota GR Corolla — each have strengths, but none match the Type R's combination of chassis sophistication, ergonomics, and resale value. The GR Corolla offers AWD, the Golf R offers a DSG, but neither has the lap-time pedigree the Type R has earned.
Expert Review
After two days at Lime Rock and a 500-mile drive home, we have only one criticism: the engine note could be more theatrical. Otherwise, this is the most complete sport compact ever made. The body control over mid-corner bumps is uncanny; the brakes never faded; the seats are race-ready but commute-friendly.
Photo Gallery
