The 2021 Honda Civic Type R marks the end of an era. This is the final production year for Honda’s celebrated, high-performance hot hatchback before a new Civic generation takes over. While a new Civic model is just around the corner, enthusiasts will need to exercise patience for the next-generation Type R, anticipated to join the lineup in the following year. For those familiar with this car, the accolades are well-known. It has consistently garnered praise and admiration, and revisiting it one last time is an enticing prospect. Especially considering the significant facelift it received the previous year, a final drive seems more than justified.
A Touch More Refined in Appearance
Across multiple reviews of the Civic Type R, criticisms regarding its polarizing aesthetics have been consistent, suggesting its styling might not stand the test of time. This perspective still holds true. However, it’s undeniable that the previous year’s facelift, coupled with the sophisticated Polished Metal Metallic paint option, elevates its visual appeal, making it somewhat more conventionally attractive.
Yet, this refinement is only partial. The design still presents a busy aesthetic overall. The side profile continues to appear somewhat disproportionate, with a length and height that seem to dwarf the wheels within their arches. An unusual design quirk where the rear door meets the fender flare also persists, creating an odd visual break from certain angles.
Despite these subjective styling critiques, Honda has made tangible improvements where they truly matter. Notably, the front fascia has been streamlined by reducing the number of faux air intakes. A larger opening beneath the grille now provides enhanced airflow to the intercooler, improving engine cooling. Additionally, splitters have been added above the (now plastic-capped) simulated vents, both front and rear, which subtly refine the overall design. These changes collectively contribute to a cleaner and more purposeful front end.
Crucially, the enhancements to the 2021 Type R extend beyond mere aesthetics. Honda’s focus was on enhancing its performance credentials. Subtle yet significant updates include a shorter gear lever for faster, more precise shifts. These seemingly minor tweaks, when combined, amplify the Type R’s effectiveness as a high-performance machine.
Further performance-oriented upgrades include new brake rotors and pads designed to minimize brake fade under extreme conditions. The front suspension has been recalibrated to provide improved steering feedback and feel. Engine cooling has also been enhanced to better withstand the rigors of track use. Interior refinements include a new suede-wrapped steering wheel for improved grip and feel, and the introduction of digital sound enhancement through the audio system. The latter, however, warrants further discussion.
Beyond these updates, the core engineering of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R remains unchanged, which is commendable given its already exceptional foundation. While the assertive styling might not appeal to everyone, it’s intrinsically linked to functional aerodynamics. The bodywork is shaped to generate actual downforce and optimize airflow, ensuring exceptional stability and road holding at high speeds.
Powering the 2021 Type R is a potent turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter inline-four engine, producing 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power is channeled exclusively to the front wheels through a mechanical limited-slip differential, managed by a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission. Honda has also incorporated advanced technology in the front axle design to mitigate torque steer, a common challenge in powerful front-wheel-drive cars. Impressively, this system effectively tames torque steer, allowing for confident power delivery.
While pricing discussions, previously around $48,015, are now largely academic due to the 2021 Civic Type R being sold out in many markets like Canada. Enthusiasts eager to purchase a new Type R will need to await the arrival of the next-generation model.
Unleashed on the Open Road
The natural habitat of the Civic Type R is undoubtedly the open road, particularly challenging, winding stretches of tarmac. Putting the Type R through its paces on such roads immediately reveals its true character. It’s a car that demands to be driven and rewards driver engagement. In terms of driver involvement and sheer driving pleasure, the Type R stands shoulder-to-shoulder with benchmarks like the BMW M2 Competition and Porsche Cayman GT4. It genuinely belongs in the conversation as one of the best driver’s cars available.
The engine of the Type R is nothing short of exceptional. It delivers a seemingly endless wave of power and torque, readily available across the rev range and in any gear. While there’s a hint of turbo lag, Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing technology ensures responsive power delivery even before the turbocharger fully spools. Once boost arrives, the Type R unleashes exhilarating acceleration. It retains a willingness to rev, reminiscent of classic naturally aspirated Honda engines, though a more aggressive exhaust note would further enhance the experience. The digitally enhanced engine sound, unfortunately, falls short, often sounding like a synthetic, buzzy drone within the cabin and, regrettably, cannot be deactivated.
Ironically, initial opinions on digitally enhanced engine sounds were more favorable, suggesting they were preferable to underwhelming natural engine notes. However, the implementation in the Honda misses the mark. The benchmark for achieving a truly satisfying engine sound in this segment is arguably set by cars like the Hyundai Veloster N, which boasts a genuinely aggressive and engaging exhaust note.
The Type R’s acceleration is rapid, although outright off-the-line launches are not its forte due to its front-wheel-drive configuration and lack of launch control or all-wheel drive. Attempting to impress with drag strip performance is not where the Type R excels. Its true brilliance is revealed in corners. The level of grip it generates through bends is remarkable, and the sensation of the front end tucking in under throttle mid-corner is unique for a front-wheel-drive vehicle. Describing the driving experience as fun and addictive is an understatement; the desire to drive it often outlasts fuel reserves.
What’s particularly striking about the Civic Type R, especially after extended drives in various high-performance vehicles, is its surprisingly refined and compliant nature during everyday driving. Compared to many high-performance German cars, including personal vehicles like a MINI Cooper and BMW E39 5-Series, the Type R’s suspension demonstrates exceptional adaptability to less-than-perfect road surfaces.
Honda’s provision of three distinct drive modes—Comfort, Sport, and R+—further enhances its versatility. These modes adjust the adaptive dampers to suit different driving scenarios. R+ mode firms up the suspension for optimal track performance, while Sport mode offers minimal discernible difference from Comfort. Comfort mode, however, transforms the Type R into a remarkably compliant and comfortable daily driver, mirroring the ride quality of a standard Civic. Moreover, the supportive racing-inspired bucket seats offer a surprising level of comfort, arguably surpassing those found in some BMW models. And the tactile pleasure of the gear lever, with its precise and satisfying throws, is simply unmatched – possibly the best manual gearbox ever created.
Adding to its everyday usability is the generous rear passenger space and a substantial cargo area capable of accommodating a mountain bike without disassembly. The Type R is undeniably a track-capable performance car, yet it cleverly disguises this capability within the practical and understated shell of a Honda Civic.
In conclusion, the 2021 Honda Civic Type R is a triumph of engineering and driving dynamics. Honda has truly excelled in these areas, although the styling and the artificial engine sound remain points of contention. Looking ahead to the next-generation Type R, the ideal evolution would retain the exceptional drivetrain and handling characteristics while adopting a more universally appealing design and a genuinely exhilarating exhaust note.
Clavey’s Verdict
Review of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R by William Clavey Hot Hatchbacks
Pros:
- Brilliant chassis
- Fantastic power delivery
- Comfortable, spacious and easy to live with
Cons:
- Still looks like a cartoon (subjective styling)
- Buzzy pumped in audio
- Needs a fully customizable drive mode
9 / 10
Clavey’s Corner is based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Please note that pricing and trim level information in this article reflect the Canadian market.
Special thanks: Honda Canada
Photography: Guillaume Fournier
Contact the author: [email protected]
