2018 Honda Civic Type R - ultimate in-depth review | carwow Reviews

TL;DR

In-depth review of the 2018 Honda Civic Type R's design and performance.

Transcript

This is the new Honda Civic Type R. And in this video, I'm going to talk you around the design. I'm going to see how fast it can go. I'm going to test it on track. I'm also going to find out just how easy it is to live with every day as a road car. The new Type R is lower, wider, and longer than the old one. It's also 38% stiffer, while the center ... Read More

Key Insights

• The 2018 Honda Civic Type R features a lower, wider, and longer design compared to its predecessor, improving handling and stability.
• The car has a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 320 horsepower, with enhancements like a monoscroll turbocharger and VTEC variable lift on the exhaust camshaft.
• Aerodynamic features such as vortex generators and a large rear wing contribute to the car's performance by providing downforce and smoothing airflow.
• The Civic Type R has a top speed of 169 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds, although real-world tests showed varying results.
• The vehicle includes advanced features like a helical limited slip differential, rev match function, and fully independent rear suspension for improved driving dynamics.
• Despite being front-wheel drive, the Type R maintains agility and control, with clever suspension geometry minimizing torque steer.
• The car's interior offers a low driving position, supportive seats, and a spacious cabin, making it practical for everyday use.
• While the Type R excels in performance, some minor issues include a lackluster infotainment system and non-functional design elements.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the key performance features of the 2018 Honda Civic Type R?

The 2018 Honda Civic Type R features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 320 horsepower, a helical limited slip differential, and fully independent rear suspension. It also includes a rev match function for seamless downshifts and advanced aerodynamics, such as vortex generators and a large rear wing, to enhance stability and handling.

Q: How does the Civic Type R's design contribute to its performance?

The Civic Type R's design includes aerodynamic elements like vortex generators, a flat underbody, and a large rear wing, which provide downforce and smooth airflow. These features, along with a lower center of gravity and stiffer chassis, enhance the car's handling and stability, making it more responsive and agile on the road and track.

Q: What makes the Civic Type R suitable for everyday use?

The Civic Type R is suitable for everyday use due to its practical interior, offering a spacious cabin and comfortable seating. The car's suspension provides a balance between sporty performance and ride comfort, especially in comfort mode. Additionally, it has a large boot space, making it convenient for carrying passengers and cargo.

Q: How does the Civic Type R compare to its competitors in terms of performance?

Compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Golf R and Ford Focus RS, the Civic Type R offers a higher top speed of 169 mph and a lighter weight, enhancing its agility. Although its acceleration is slightly slower due to being front-wheel drive, it compensates with advanced suspension and differential technologies, providing excellent handling and driving dynamics.

Q: What are some criticisms of the 2018 Civic Type R?

Criticisms of the 2018 Civic Type R include a lackluster infotainment system, non-functional design elements, and a sound from the exhaust that may not meet all expectations. Additionally, some may find the car's bold and aggressive styling too boy-racer-like, which might not appeal to everyone.

Q: What are the benefits of the Civic Type R being front-wheel drive?

Being front-wheel drive helps keep the Civic Type R's weight down, improving agility and braking performance. It also contributes to a lower cost compared to all-wheel drive systems. Honda's clever suspension geometry minimizes torque steer, allowing for better control and stability during acceleration, making the car enjoyable to drive.

Q: How does the Civic Type R's suspension system enhance its driving experience?

The Civic Type R's suspension system includes fully independent rear suspension and three-way adjustable dampers, providing a balance between comfort and performance. In PlusR mode, the suspension stiffens for track use, while comfort mode offers a more relaxed ride. This flexibility allows drivers to tailor the suspension to their driving preferences and road conditions.

Q: What makes the 2018 Civic Type R a compelling choice for enthusiasts?

The 2018 Civic Type R is compelling for enthusiasts due to its combination of performance, practicality, and affordability. It offers thrilling driving dynamics with advanced technologies, a comfortable and spacious interior, and a competitive price point. Its record-setting Nurburgring lap time and engaging driving experience make it an attractive option for those seeking a high-performance hot hatch.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The 2018 Honda Civic Type R boasts a more aggressive design and improved performance features, including a turbocharged engine and aerodynamic enhancements. It offers a thrilling driving experience both on the road and track, with advanced suspension and drivetrain technologies.

• Despite its sporty nature, the Civic Type R remains practical for daily use, providing a comfortable interior and ample space. However, some design elements, like the infotainment system and non-functional vents, may not meet all expectations.

• Overall, the new Civic Type R is a well-rounded hot hatch, combining performance, practicality, and affordability. It offers a compelling package for enthusiasts, though its bold styling may not appeal to everyone.