The 2021 Honda Civic Type R marks the end of an era. This model year is the final curtain call for the big-winged hot hatchback we’ve come to know and love. While a new generation of the standard Civic is just around the corner, enthusiasts will need to wait a bit longer for the next iteration of the coveted Type R. For those familiar with this car, its merits are well-established. It’s been lauded in numerous reviews, consistently earning praise. However, a final drive in the 2021 model is certainly warranted, especially considering the notable facelift it received the previous year. Let’s dive into what makes this last edition of the current generation Honda Civic Type R so compelling.
A Refined Aesthetic
In past reviews, the styling of the Civic Type R has been a point of contention, often described as “ugly” and potentially not aging gracefully. While those initial impressions still hold some weight, the 2021 facelift, particularly when paired with the Polished Metal Metallic paint option, does soften the visual impact and adds a touch of refinement.
However, the overall design remains busy, with a lot of elements vying for attention. The side profile, in particular, can still appear somewhat disproportionate. The car’s length and height can make the wheels seem undersized within the expansive wheel arches. The design quirk where the rear door meets the fender flare also remains a slightly awkward visual element from certain angles.
Despite these subjective styling critiques, Honda has made tangible improvements where it truly counts. The front fascia has been cleaned up, with a reduction in the number of simulated air intakes. The lower grille opening in front of the intercooler has been enlarged, enhancing airflow and cooling. Furthermore, splitters have been added above the faux vents, both front and rear, now capped with plastic, creating a more visually segmented and less cluttered appearance. These changes collectively result in a more cohesive and improved front-end design for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R.
Beyond aesthetics, the 2021 updates to the Honda Civic Type R focused on enhancing its performance capabilities. Subtle yet impactful changes include a shorter gear lever throw for quicker shifts, contributing to a more engaging driving experience. These refinements, when combined, elevate the Type R’s effectiveness as a high-performance machine.
Upgrades extend to the braking system, featuring new brake rotors and pads designed to minimize brake fade under demanding conditions. The front suspension has been recalibrated to provide enhanced steering feel and feedback, crucial for driver confidence and control. Engine cooling has also been improved to better withstand the rigors of track use, ensuring consistent performance even under strenuous driving. Inside, a new suede-wrapped steering wheel adds a premium touch and improved grip, while digital audio enhancements have been incorporated into the sound system.
For the most part, the 2021 Honda Civic Type R retains the core engineering brilliance of its predecessors, and this is undoubtedly a positive aspect. While the bold styling might not resonate with everyone, the aerodynamic elements and downforce-generating features are functional, contributing to the car’s exceptional stability and road-holding capabilities at high speeds.
Powering the 2021 Type R is a potent turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 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 implemented sophisticated technology in the front axle design to mitigate torque steer, a common challenge in high-powered front-wheel-drive vehicles, and these systems prove remarkably effective in maintaining composure and control. While pricing discussions are less relevant now given the model’s limited availability and impending new generation, the engineering and performance remain highly desirable.
On the Open Road
The natural habitat for the Civic Type R is the open road, particularly winding stretches of tarmac that beg to be attacked. Driving the 2021 model reinforces this notion immediately. It’s a car that demands to be driven, offering a level of driver engagement that places it among the elite, alongside vehicles like the BMW M2 Competition and Porsche Cayman GT4. It truly stands as one of the best driver’s cars available at any price point.
The engine in the Type R is a powerhouse, delivering a seemingly endless surge of power and torque across the rev range and in any gear. While there’s a hint of turbo lag, Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing technology steps in to provide immediate responsiveness before the turbocharger fully spools. Once the boost arrives, the Type R unleashes its full potential with exhilarating acceleration. It retains a rev-happy nature reminiscent of classic naturally aspirated Honda engines, adding to the driving enjoyment. However, the engine note itself could be more aggressive and sonorous. The digitally enhanced audio, intended to amplify the engine sound, unfortunately comes across as artificial and somewhat intrusive, a buzzy electronic resonance within the cabin that cannot be disabled.
This is somewhat ironic, as initial sentiments favored pumped-in audio over potentially lackluster natural engine sounds. However, the implementation in the Honda Civic Type R falls short of expectations. Competitors like the Hyundai Veloster N, with its genuinely aggressive exhaust note, demonstrate a more successful approach to auditory excitement in a hot hatchback.
Despite this minor audio drawback, the 2021 Honda Civic Type R excels in outright speed and, more importantly, in cornering prowess. Its front-wheel-drive configuration means launching from a standstill isn’t its strongest suit, lacking the all-wheel-drive grip and launch control systems of some rivals. However, in twisty road scenarios, the Type R truly shines. The level of grip it generates in corners is remarkable for a front-wheel-drive car, exhibiting a unique ability to tuck its nose in when applying throttle mid-corner, enhancing agility and responsiveness. Describing the driving experience as fun and addictive is an understatement; its fuel consumption might be the only limiting factor in extended driving sessions.
Across multiple reviews, the Civic Type R has also proven surprisingly refined and docile in everyday driving. Compared to many high-performance German vehicles, the Type R’s suspension demonstrates a remarkable ability to absorb imperfections on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
Honda provides three distinct drive modes that adjust the adaptive dampers. “R+” mode delivers a firm, track-focused setup, while “Sport” mode offers a less noticeable change. “Comfort” mode, however, transforms the Type R into a surprisingly compliant and comfortable daily driver, comparable to a standard Honda Civic in terms of ride quality. The racing-inspired bucket seats offer excellent support and comfort, even surpassing some BMW seats in long-distance usability. The precision and feel of the gear lever when executing quick shifts further enhance the overall driving engagement, arguably making it one of the finest manual gearboxes currently available.
Practicality is another unexpected strength. The 2021 Honda Civic Type R boasts a spacious rear seat and a generously sized cargo area, easily accommodating large items like a mountain bike. It’s a true performance car that manages to retain everyday usability, blending racetrack capability with Civic-like practicality.
In conclusion, the 2021 Honda Civic Type R is a resounding success, particularly from a driving dynamics and engineering perspective. While subjective styling preferences and the artificial engine sound might be minor drawbacks, the core driving experience and technical execution are exceptional. Looking ahead to the next-generation Type R, the ideal evolution would retain the brilliant drivetrain and driving dynamics while adopting a more universally appealing design and a genuinely engaging 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:
- Divisive Styling
- Artificial Pumped-in Audio
- Lacks Customizable Drive Mode
9 / 10
Clavey’s Corner is based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Pricing and specifications mentioned reflect the Canadian market.
Special thanks to Honda Canada.
Photography by Guillaume Fournier
Contact the author: [email protected]
