04 May 04
The Civic Type-R is not quite like other hot hatches. Sure, it's quick off the mark (0-60 in 6.6 seconds) and powerful (200bhp), it has a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission, stiffly-sprung suspension and all the expected bolstered seats, sporty instrument dials, metal pedals and feel-good accessories, but it has one crucial distinguishing factor to set it apart from its opposition: an engine that redlines at a disturbingly high 8000rpm. And it's also a way to get into a 200bhp car for just £16,000.
When 4Car first drove the Type-R a couple of years ago, we concluded "great engine, shame about the body." For 2004, the engine has undergone a few minor tweaks, including the fitment of a lighter flywheel and throttle mods for quicker responses, though it's not had a major overhaul. The suspension has been firmed-up with new springs and dampers, which goes some way towards counterbalancing the inherent unsportiness of the Civic's high-roofed breadvan dimensions, and improved sound insulation has addressed some noise intrusion - that engine really does squeal when it gets going. Cosmetically, there are new three-light projector headlamps, redesigned taillight clusters, reshaped bumpers, Accord-style door-mounted indicator repeaters, new alloy wheel designs and the choice of a new grey metallic paint finish. The sports seats and door panels get red upholstery inserts; shades of 1980s hot hatches here. So far, so sensible - and hey, we've even got used to that MPV-like dash-mounted gear lever by now.
We still don't like the steering, though: this electric steer-by-wire power-assisted set-up gives very little feedback, barely weights up on corners and has a disconcerting delayed-action sensation at low manoeuvering speeds. And the turning circle is enormous.
