Ask and ye shall receive, especially when a subtle hint is dropped in the right place. After mentioning my inability to compare the Acura Integra Type S to the Honda Civic Type R in a previous review due to a scheduling mishap, the folks at DriveShop made it happen. A note arrived, confirming the Type R was still in their fleet and would be heading my way in mid-March. And let me tell you, I was ecstatic this review finally came to fruition.
The hype surrounding the Civic Type R is real, and after spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear this car deserves its reputation. It stands tall as one of the best performance cars you can buy without breaking the bank. The 2023 Honda Civic Type R delivers an exhilarating driving experience that few competitors can match at this price point.
Powering this beast is a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, churning out 315 horsepower. While impressive power figures are part of the equation, they are only one facet of what makes the Type R a truly exceptional driver’s car. It’s a holistic package meticulously engineered for driving enthusiasts.
The heart of the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is undoubtedly its powertrain and meticulously crafted chassis. Honda has equipped this performance hatchback with a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, widely regarded as one of the best in the business. Adding to the driving dynamics are a limited-slip differential, powerful four-wheel disc brakes with striking red Brembo front calipers, a sophisticated rear multi-link suspension, and adaptive dampers. The driver can fine-tune the car’s behavior with the four-mode adaptive drive system, offering Normal, Sport, Individual, and the track-focused +R modes.
Performance is blistering. The 2023 Civic Type R can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around five seconds. Despite the front-wheel-drive configuration and significant power output, torque steer is remarkably well-managed, a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess. On winding roads, the Type R exhibits phenomenal grip, feeling planted and composed even under hard cornering. The substantial rear wing and sticky 265/30 R 19 high-performance summer tires work in harmony to deliver exceptional handling.
Despite its high-performance nature, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R manages respectable fuel economy figures, with an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined. This blend of performance and relative efficiency makes it a practical choice for enthusiasts who want a car they can enjoy daily.
Beyond performance, the Civic Type R offers surprising practicality. Unlike many sports cars that sacrifice rear passenger space, the Type R provides a genuinely usable rear seat with 37.4 inches of legroom and even includes rear cupholders. This makes it a sports car that can comfortably accommodate passengers.
Stepping inside the 2023 Civic Type R, you are greeted by a striking red and black interior. This bold color scheme is the only interior option available, reinforcing the car’s sporty character. The cabin is well-appointed with suede-effect sport seats that offer excellent support during spirited driving.
Another key element of the Type R’s driver-focused nature is its exclusive six-speed manual transmission. While modern automatic transmissions might offer quicker shifts and better fuel economy in some scenarios, Honda’s decision to stick with a manual for the Civic Type R is commendable. It maximizes driver engagement and satisfaction, putting you in complete control of the driving experience. The tactile feel of the aluminum shift knob further enhances the connection with the car.
The base price for the 2024 Honda Civic Type R starts at $45,890, including destination charges. Solid colors like Rallye Red and Crystal Black Pearl maintain this base price. For those seeking a more distinctive look, premium paint options such as Sonic Gray Pearl, Boost Blue Pearl, and the iconic Championship White (as seen on the test car) are available for an additional $455.
Beyond its performance credentials and driver-centric features, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R comes generously equipped. Standard features include a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies, a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system, a 9-inch color touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, voice recognition, and a multi-angle rearview camera. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless device charging, SiriusXM satellite radio, and dual-zone automatic climate control are also standard. Further enhancing the interior are features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, driver’s seat height adjustment, sport pedals, and illuminated vanity mirrors. Practicality is addressed with a 60/40 split-folding rear seatback, a cargo area cover, and multiple power outlets. Exterior highlights include auto high-beam headlights, LED lighting, a distinctive triple-outlet sport exhaust, smart entry, heated power mirrors with turn indicators, and rain-sensing wipers.
The tested 2023 Honda Civic Type R, adjusted to 2024 pricing with the premium paint option, comes in at $46,345. This represents incredible value for the level of performance, features, and driving enjoyment it delivers.
Having now experienced the 2023 Honda Civic Type R, some initial assumptions regarding its differences with the Acura Integra Type S were confirmed, while others were revised. The price difference is indeed significant, with the Acura commanding a premium of around seven thousand dollars. While the Integra Type S exudes a more refined and mature character, the Civic Type R doesn’t come across as immature. It presents a raw, more visceral driving experience. Even for seasoned drivers, the Civic Type R remains engaging and thrilling, proving it’s not just a car for younger enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Honda deserves high praise for creating not just one, but two exceptional compact sports cars based on a shared platform. The 2023 Honda Civic Type R and Acura Integra Type S offer distinct personalities and cater to different preferences, providing meaningful choices for driving enthusiasts. The 2023 Honda Civic Type R firmly holds its position as a benchmark in the affordable performance car segment.
