Honda Civic Type R Sedan 2007 Review - International

What we liked
>> Punchy, free-revving engine
>> Agile chassis, strong brakes
>> Bang for bucks (in Japan at least)

Overall rating: 4.0/5.0
Engine, drivetrain and chassis: 4.5/5.0
Packaging and practicality: 4.0/5.0
Safety: 4.0/5.0
Behind the wheel: 4.0/5.0
X-factor: 3.5/5.0
About our ratings

We know what you're thinking. This Civic Type R doesn't look anywhere near as hot as the sexy Euro hatchback version that launched here in July. But don't be too hasty too pass judgement -- because this Japan-spec Civic has it all over its fancy-pants Euro sibling in terms of dynamics and raw performance.

Let's talk numbers: the Jap-spec car puts out 165kW at 8000rpm -- the Euro car has only 148kW. The former also has 215Nm of twisting force, while the latter has just 193Nm. What's more, the sedan tips the scales at a sprightly 1250kg (without aircon, which adds 20kg), while the hatch weighs nearly 100kg more, at a fraction under 1350kg.

So, as far as power-to-weight-ratio bragging rights go, the edge is clearly with the more mundane looking sedan. Another big plus point in favour of the four-door is the fact that it's underpinned by independent double-wishbone rear suspension, rather than the comparatively crude, torsion-beam set-up of the hatch (more here).

Interested now? We thought so.

The Type R sedan launched in the Japanese market in March this year, and its keen price (which equates to around $28,650) means it represents strong value for money. No surprises, then, that it's been a hot seller in its domestic market.

It's a shame the car isn't offered here, because the stove-hot sedan is packed with tasty gear. Apart from its high-output 2.0-litre engine and six-speed transmission, the Type R also scores a lighter, more rigid body shell, specially tuned suspension and an 18-inch wheel/tyre package with beefed-up Brembo brakes.

Given its overtly sporting orientation, it's no surprise the souped-up sedan is equipped with body addenda such as a large air intake in the front bumper and grille, a rear bumper with built-in rear diffuser, a high-mount rear spoiler, and extended side sill garnishes -- all of which add to the car's aggressive stance.

The theme extends to the interior, which has a "racing car-like" feel. The front bucket seats, too, are specially designed for Type R. Separate centre/side construction with high side bolsters and firmer cushioning help to keep you in place when attacking the twisties. Other performance-oriented features include a small-diameter leather steering wheel, an aluminium ball-type shift knob, a short-stroke sports shift linkage, drilled metal pedals and footrest, and, of course, a push-button starter.

The Carsales Network had the opportunity to punt the car around the road course at Honda's Twin Ring Motegi proving ground recently and our impressions were overwhelmingly positive.

Sporting Hondas are invariably characterised by their screaming VTEC engines, and the Civic Type R is no exception. Maximum power of 165kW doesn't arrive until 8000rpm and peak torque of 215Nm also doesn't make an appearance until 6100rpm.

The corollary is that you really need to work to keep the zingy engine on the boil, and this is a task made easier -- in fact, downright pleasurable -- by the snickety-snick short-throw six-speed gearbox.

Two laps isn't a lot to go on, but our preliminary impressions are of a crisp, responsive chassis, communicative steering and involving dynamics. This is a car that begs to be caned.

Visually, the Type R sedan doesn't have quite the same impact as its Euro hatchback sibling, but it's still purposeful in its own right. The huge rear wing alone distinguishes it from garden-variety Civics, and the bespoke bonnet, front fenders and front bumper/spoiler add further differentiation. Red "H" emblems and sill extensions cap off the car's racy look.

Type R badging adorns the rear of the car and the centre console, and the same logo is also embroidered onto the front seats. Three paint colors -- Championship White, Super Platinum metallic, and Vivid Blue Pearl -- are offered.

Honda's target when it launched the Type R in Japan was to sell 400 examples each month at a price of 2,835,000 yen. [Ed: the car is also the star of a one-make series in Japan -- check out the photos of the racer displayed at the recent Tokyo motor show hereabouts.]

We're sure there'd be more than a few Australian buyers who would have been happy to add to these monthly volumes. What a pity they'll never have the chance.

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