Just 2,500 FK2s were sold in UK and now, for the first time, the new FK8 Civic Type R is being sold alongside its standard siblings (Type Rs had normally been the run-out specials in the UK). With 316bhp and adaptive suspension it’s the hot hatch of the moment – just like its respective forebears.
You would think that the new Type R shares no similarities with its predecessors, but there are – the perfect driving position, a razor sharp chassis and handling characteristics, and a real sense of it being well engineered.
While the NSX-R in the pictures feels ultra special and the Accord a refined sports saloon, it’s the Civics that best reflect what the Type R badge is all about – not least the EP3.
Start it up and it sounds dull at idle but prod the throttle and the revs rise to a triumphant howl. It redlines at 8,000rpm and the metal-topped gearlever that comes out of the dash feels great to flick between gears. There’s not a huge amount of steering feel but the EP3’s chassis is still razor sharp more than 10 years on.
It’s this car that Goodwood Road & Racing feels sums up the Type R character the best. It’s a hatchback with a raw attitude but one that also feels hugely special. Whether the next round of Type Rs will continue to impress is anyone’s guess, but with 25 years of success stories under its belt, we’re confident there will be many more great hot Hondas.