Type R stands as the revered badge representing the zenith of Honda’s factory performance. Originating in the early 1990s on the Japanese market NSX supercar, the Type R philosophy – a track-inspired approach to achieving exhilarating speed – quickly expanded its reach to front-wheel drive icons like the Integra, Civic, and Accord by the close of the decade. Today, the Civic Type R is celebrated globally as a high-performance benchmark, igniting anticipation among driving purists worldwide for each new iteration, including the groundbreaking 2023 Honda Civic Type R – the most accomplished Civic Type R to date.
By January 2022, Honda had proudly sold approximately 200,000 Type R models across the globe, a testament to their enduring appeal. This article delves into the complete lineage of Type R models spanning three decades, showcasing the evolution of these exceptional performance cars.
NSX Type R: The Genesis of a Legend
Based on the revolutionary first-generation NSX, three exclusive versions of the NSX Type R were meticulously crafted and sold solely in Japan, bearing the Honda marque. The original NSX, produced from 1990 to 2005, laid the foundation for this performance lineage.
1992-1995 (Japan): The Original Icon: The inaugural Honda to proudly wear the red Type R emblem was the Honda NSX Type R supercar. Offered in limited quantities from 1992 to 1995, with only 500 units produced, this model was an instant classic. The NSX Type R’s suspension was meticulously recalibrated for heightened aggression on the track. Weight reduction was a critical focus, achieving a remarkable decrease of over 200 pounds by strategically eliminating sound-deadening materials, power windows, air conditioning, and the audio system. Echoing Honda’s pioneering Formula 1 race car of the 1960s, the NSX Type R was exclusively available in Championship White.
2002 (Japan): The Refined Evolution – NSX-R: The second iteration, simply named the NSX-R, debuted in Japan in 2002, with a limited production run of just 140 vehicles. Building upon the weight reduction strategies of its predecessor, the NSX-R incorporated a larger, more potent 3.2-liter V6 engine, a precise 6-speed manual transmission, and striking carbon fiber bodywork. Notable carbon fiber elements included a distinctive pass-through hood and a larger rear wing. These aerodynamic enhancements generated a level of downforce rarely encountered in street-legal vehicles. Further enhancing track prowess, the suspension and brakes were retuned, and the engine’s crankshaft underwent precision balancing.
2005 (Japan): The Homologation Special – NSX R GT: The NSX R GT stands as the rarest and most extreme evolution of the first-generation NSX Type R. A mere five units were ever constructed, each finished in Championship White. Mechanically identical to the NSX Type R, the NSX R GT was conceived as a homologation special. Its unique bodywork was specifically designed to meet stringent motorsports regulations for competition use. The NSX R GT is easily distinguished by its prominent, non-functional roof scoop, aggressively redesigned front and rear fascias crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, and enlarged side air ducts. Once homologated on the production model, this advanced aero package was swiftly adopted by NSX race cars competing in the fiercely contested GT500 class of Super GT.
| NSX Type R | |
|---|---|
| 1992-1995 | |
| Engine | 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 270 hp 210 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| 2002 | |
| Engine | 3.2-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 290 hp 224 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 2005 | |
| Engine | 3.2-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 290 hp 224 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
Integra Type R: Performance for the Masses
The Integra Type R democratized Type R performance, bringing its exhilarating driving experience to a wider audience. As the second model to bear the Type R badge, and spanning two distinct vehicle generations, the Integra Type R also marked the first Type R model to be sold in the United States.
1995-2001 (DC2) (Japan, U.S.): The Sport Compact Icon: The Integra Type R made its debut in Japan in 1995, powered by a high-revving 197-horsepower 1.8-liter VTEC® 4-cylinder engine. Extensive modifications distinguished the Integra Type R, including a meticulously hand-built engine featuring hand-polished intake and exhaust ports, high-compression pistons, a revised intake system, a retuned exhaust, and a performance-enhancing helical limited-slip differential.
Chassis enhancements were equally comprehensive, encompassing suspension, tire, wheel, and brake upgrades. The body structure was fortified with additional bracing and seam welds, enhancing strength and rigidity. Weight reduction initiatives included the removal of sound insulation, a thinner windshield, lightweight wheels, and the deletion of air conditioning and audio systems in pursuit of pure performance.
The Integra Type R (DC2) arrived in the U.S. market for the 1997 model year, representing the sole Type R model ever sold in the U.S. under the Acura brand. Initially offered exclusively in Championship White, the U.S.-spec Integra Type R delivered 195 hp and shared the vast majority of performance modifications with its Japanese counterpart.
After a brief hiatus, the Integra Type R returned to the U.S. market for the 2000 model year, now featuring standard air conditioning and new available exterior colors: Phoenix Yellow and Flamenco Black Pearl. A year later, Nighthawk Black Pearl replaced Flamenco Black Pearl for the 2001 model year. The Integra Type R’s unwavering focus on driving enthusiasts rapidly established it as an icon within the burgeoning “sport compact” enthusiast and tuner scene of the era. This appeal persists today, with Integra Type R models appreciating in value among collectors. Approximately 34,500 units were sold globally, including around 2,700 in the U.S. over its three-year run.
2002-2006 (DC5) (Japan): The Next Generation – Japan Exclusive: Sold exclusively in Japan, an all-new Integra Type R, based on the fourth-generation Integra, debuted with a potent 2.0-liter i-VTEC® engine producing 220 hp. It featured a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, a lightweight flywheel for enhanced engine responsiveness, and a helical limited-slip differential for optimal traction. Chassis upgrades included high-performance Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers, stiffer springs and shocks for sharpened handling, and 17-inch wheels shod with Bridgestone Potenza tires.
The interior was driver-focused, featuring supportive Recaro seats and a Momo steering wheel, along with sporty aluminum pedals. While prioritizing performance, the Integra Type R offered an options package that included some creature comforts, broadening its appeal to a wider range of enthusiasts. In total, approximately 14,000 units of this generation were sold.
| Integra Type R | |
|---|---|
| 1995-2001 | |
| Engine | 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 197 hp (Japan), 195 hp (U.S.) 131 lb.-ft. (Japan), 130 lb.-ft. (U.S.) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| 2002-2006 | |
| Engine | 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 220 hp 152 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
Accord Type R: European and Japanese Performance Sedan
Exclusively available in Europe and Japan, the Accord Type R sedan spanned two product generations, bringing Type R performance to the sedan segment. Combined, approximately 3,400 Accord Type Rs were sold across Europe and Japan.
1998-2001 (CH1) (Europe): The European Sport Sedan: Based on the European Honda Accord sedan (distinct from the U.S. Accord), the inaugural Accord Type R debuted with a 209-hp 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine shared mechanical lineage with the engine used in the U.S.-market Prelude VTEC®. The sedan also featured a firmer suspension and reinforced chassis, a helical limited-slip differential for enhanced traction, a dual exhaust system, lightweight 17-inch wheels, and supportive Recaro front seats.
2000-2002 (CL1) (Japan): The Euro R – Japan’s Interpretation: Known as the Euro R in Japan, the Japanese-market Accord Type R was sold from 2000 to 2002. While visually distinct from the European Accord, the Euro R shared numerous core features, including the engine, drivetrain, suspension, chassis, and interior enhancements. A key distinction lay in the engine: the new “red top” version of the H22A engine produced 217 hp in the Japan-only Euro R.
2002-2008 (Japan): The Second Generation Euro R: The second generation of the Accord Type R continued exclusively in Japan as the Euro R. Power came from a 2.0-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine, similar to that found in the 4th-generation Integra Type R, producing 217 hp. Production was limited to just 200 units. Staying true to its predecessors, it featured a helical limited-slip differential, upgraded suspension and brakes, and performance-oriented Recaro seats.
| Accord Type R | |
|---|---|
| 1998-2002 | |
| Engine | 2.2-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 209 hp (Europe), 217 hp (Japan) 164 lb.-ft. (Europe), 163 lb.-ft. (Japan) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| 2002-2008 | |
| Engine | 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 217 hp 152 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
Civic Type R: The Global Hot Hatch Icon
The Civic Type R has ascended to global performance icon status, boasting five distinct variants since its inception as a 1997 model. The highly anticipated sixth iteration of this ultimate hot hatch, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R, is set to debut in Japan, Europe, and the United States in 2022, promising to redefine performance in its segment.
1997-1999 (EK9) (Japan): The Hot Hatch Foundation: The original Civic Type R was introduced exclusively to the Japanese market in 1997. Based on the sixth-generation Civic SiR, this 3-door hatchback was powered by a meticulously hand-ported 1.6-liter VTEC® 4-cylinder engine delivering 182 hp. A helical limited-slip differential and a close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission were standard equipment, ensuring engaging performance. The chassis was seam-welded to significantly enhance rigidity. The interior featured distinctive touches including a titanium shift knob and vibrant red Recaro seats, complemented by matching red accents on the door panels and floor mats.
In 1998, a Motor Sports edition was introduced, specifically tailored for racing. This variant came equipped with durable steel wheels and the standard Civic interior featuring manual windows. To minimize weight for track use, air conditioning and the audio system were omitted.
In 1999, Honda unveiled the Civic Type Rx, which added layers of luxury and comfort to the Civic Type R. Enhancements included power retractable exterior mirrors, power windows, automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a CD audio system, broadening its appeal beyond hardcore enthusiasts. Over its two-year production run, approximately 15,900 units were sold, solidifying its place in hot hatch history.
2001-2005 (EP3) (Europe, Japan): Global Expansion and Refinement: The second generation Civic Type R was offered in two versions catering to the European and Japanese markets. Both were assembled at Honda’s Swindon auto plant in the United Kingdom and shared the same sporty 3-door hatchback body style. Approximately 32,800 units were sold, demonstrating its growing global appeal.
The European version featured a 198-hp i-VTEC® 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, a seam-welded body for enhanced stiffness, a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, and upgraded brakes and suspension for spirited driving. The Japanese version elevated performance further with the addition of a limited-slip differential and Recaro seats. It also boasted a more powerful 212 hp iteration of the K20 engine, meticulously built in Japan and shipped to the Swindon factory. This Japanese-spec engine featured a fully balanced crankshaft assembly, unique intake and exhaust manifolds, more aggressive camshafts, higher compression pistons, and a lightweight flywheel for sharper throttle response.
In 2003, the entire Civic lineup received updates to steering, suspension, and the European version also gained the lightweight flywheel, enhancing driving dynamics. Celebrating 30 years of Civic production, a special 30th Anniversary edition of the Civic Type R was offered in the U.K. This commemorative model included Recaro seats, air conditioning, a leather Momo steering wheel, and distinctive red carpet and door panels. Production was limited to just 300 units, with 100 each in Nighthawk Black, Satin Silver, and Milano Red.
For the 2005 model year, Honda introduced the Civic Type R Premier edition, serving as a final send-off for the EP3 generation. Offered exclusively in the U.K., similar to the 30th Anniversary edition, this model featured Recaro Trendline seats in a striking black and red combination, a Momo steering wheel, red carpet and door panels, and a Type R logo prominently displayed on the front brake calipers. Air conditioning was offered as an option. The Premier Edition was available exclusively in Milano Red, Nighthawk Black, Cosmic Grey, and Satin Silver, offering a range of sophisticated and sporty color choices.
2007-2011 (FD2) (Japan): Sedan Performance – Japan Exclusive: The third generation Civic Type R diverged into two distinct versions, based on entirely different chassis. The Civic Type R for Japan was exclusively sold as a four-door sedan, mirroring the Civic Sedan available in the U.S. market at the time. Power came from a potent 222 hp 2.0-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine, paired with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and a helical limited-slip differential for optimal power delivery. High-performance Brembo brakes were fitted, along with a stiffer suspension setup for enhanced handling. Instead of seam welding, the body construction extensively utilized structural adhesive to further stiffen the chassis, contributing to improved cornering and responsiveness. The interior featured sporty black and red seats and a choice of black-on-black or red-on-black color schemes, reflecting its performance-oriented nature.
Sold only in 2007, the ultra-exclusive Civic Mugen RR was based on the Japanese Civic Type R. Limited to a production run of just 300 units, each was finished in Milano Red. Weight reduction was a key focus, achieved through the use of a carbon fiber front bumper and an aluminum hood. The engine received a significant power boost to 237 hp, thanks to Mugen performance camshafts, exhaust system, and engine computer tuning. The Mugen RR also featured lightweight Recaro racing seats and special 18-inch Mugen wheels, completing its transformation into a track-focused machine.
2007-2011 (FN2) (Europe): European Hatchback Evolution: The European market Civic Type R was based on the European Civic 3-door hatchback. Its 198 hp engine was similar to its EP3 predecessor and was mated to a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, delivering engaging performance. The suspension – featuring front struts and a torsion-beam rear axle – was also updated for improved handling characteristics on European roads.
Multiple variations of the European Civic Type R were offered, including a Type R GT, which added comfort and convenience features like dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlights, power folding outside mirrors, and cruise control. For the 2010 model year, Type R GT models also gained a helical limited-slip differential, further enhancing their performance credentials. A Type R Heritage edition, built upon the GT trim, added HID headlights and an advanced audio system with Bluetooth® connectivity and DVD satellite navigation, blending performance with premium features.
The Type R Race edition took a different approach, stripping away HID headlights, climate control, fog lights, the audio system, and sound proofing to achieve a weight reduction of approximately 88 pounds, catering to purists seeking ultimate track performance.
From 2007 to 2011, approximately 13,400 Civic Type Rs (FD2 and FN2 combined) were sold globally, showcasing the continued demand for this iconic hot hatch.
2015-2017 (FK2) (Europe, Japan): Turbocharging the Legend: The first-ever turbocharged Civic Type R marked a significant shift in powertrain technology. This 5-door hatchback was powered by a potent 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine featuring VTEC® and direct injection. Its impressive 306 hp output made it the most powerful Type R model produced to that point. The close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission channeled power to the front wheels through a helical limited slip differential, ensuring optimal traction and driver engagement. Approximately 7,500 units were sold, signaling the beginning of a new turbocharged era for Type R.
Suspension innovations unique to the Type R included an Adaptive Damper System featuring a track-oriented +R mode, and an advanced dual-axis strut front suspension. This innovative front suspension utilized two kingpins to enhance high-speed stability, cornering prowess, and steering feel, while effectively mitigating torque steer. The H-shaped torsion beam rear suspension was retuned to optimize high-speed stability and maximize roll resistance. The Civic Type R also benefited from the extensive application of structural adhesives, which, combined with structural reinforcements, resulted in an 18% increase in rigidity compared to non-Type R Civics. At 13.8 inches, the Brembo front brakes were the largest ever fitted to a Type R model, providing exceptional stopping power.
The Civic Type R was instantly recognizable thanks to its distinctive wide-body exterior design, along with its performance-focused red-on-black interior featuring special sport seats with enhanced bolstering, emphasizing its track-ready nature.
For its final model year, a Black Edition was introduced exclusively to the U.K. market, limited to just 100 units. Additionally, 750 units were exported from the U.K. to Japan for the final year of production, reflecting its global appeal.
2017-2021 (FK8) (U.S., Japan, Europe): Global Domination and Nürburgring Record: First introduced in 2017, the current Civic Type R marked a historic milestone as the first to be officially sold in the United States. Continuing as a 5-door hatchback, it featured a refined 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering 306-hp in the U.S. market and a slightly higher 316 hp in European and Japanese markets. The engine was paired with a precise close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and a helical limited slip differential, maintaining the Type R’s commitment to driver engagement. It also incorporated a dual-axis front suspension, similar to its predecessor, further refining handling. However, this generation Type R introduced a multi-link independent rear suspension, which, in conjunction with the Adaptive Damper System, provided an unparalleled balance of ride quality and razor-sharp handling.
In 2017, the Civic Type R etched its name in performance history by claiming the front-wheel drive track record at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife with a blistering lap time of 7:43.80, shattering the previous record by a remarkable 7 seconds. The Civic Type R also established new front-wheel drive lap records at renowned circuits including Magny-Cours, Spa-Francorchamps, Silverstone, Estoril, Hungaroring, and Mount Panorama, solidifying its position as the benchmark for front-wheel drive performance cars.
A refresh for the 2020 model year brought further enhancements, including the Honda Sensing™ suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, along with a retuned and faster-reacting Adaptive Damper System, improving both safety and performance. Additional refinements included stiffer bushings in the rear lower B-arm and lower-friction ball joints, resulting in sharper steering feel and enhanced control. Two-piece brake rotors with more fade-resistant brake pads were also introduced, further improving braking performance under demanding conditions. As of December 31, 2021, an impressive 21,424 Civic Type Rs had been sold in the United States since its launch in June 2017, demonstrating its immediate success in the American market.
In 2021, the highly sought-after Civic Type R Limited Edition debuted, with a production run limited to just 600 units. Visually distinguished by its exclusive Phoenix Yellow paint, contrasting black roof and hood scoop, the Type R LE also featured lightweight forged-aluminum BBS wheels and grade-exclusive Michelin Cup 2 tires. These lightweight wheels and tires contributed to an 18-pound reduction in unsprung weight, further enhancing handling agility and responsiveness.
For the Type R LE, engineers also strategically removed select sound-deadening materials, the cargo cover, rear heater ducts, and the rear wiper mechanism, achieving a total weight reduction of 50 lbs, maximizing its track-focused performance. The Adaptive Damper System and electric power steering were both recalibrated to perfectly complement the elevated dynamic performance and lighter weight of the BBS alloys, delivering an even more rewarding and connected driving experience, particularly during demanding on-track driving sessions.
| Civic Type R | |
|---|---|
| 1998-1999 | |
| Engine | 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 182 hp 118 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| 2001-2005 | |
| Engine | 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 198 hp (Europe), 212-hp (Japan) 144 lb.-ft. (Europe) 149 lb.-ft. (Japan) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 2007-2011 (Japan) | |
| Engine | 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 222 hp, 237-hp (Mugen) 159 lb.-ft., 161 lb.-ft. (Mugen) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 2007-2011 (Europe) | |
| Engine | 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 198 hp 142 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 2015-2017 | |
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 306 hp 295 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 2017-2021 | |
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder 306 hp (U.S.), 316 hp (Europe, Japan) 295 lb.-ft. (all markets) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
