As a long-time Honda enthusiast, upgrading to the Fl5 Type R was a significant step. Having owned various Hondas and Acuras over the years, from a ’93 Civic to a recent MDX, my brand loyalty runs deep. This review details my experience with the FL5 Type R after six months and 5,000 miles, providing insights for potential buyers considering this exciting hot hatch.
My Honda journey began with a ’93 Civic Hatch manual, and the fun-to-drive factor has always been a priority. Living near Honda manufacturing plants and knowing several Honda employees has further solidified my connection with the brand. My previous car, a 2014 Accord V6, served me well for a decade and even saw some modifications like a Takeda intake and Borla exhaust, enhancing its sporty appeal.
The decision to replace the Accord came as my son approached driving age, creating a need for a new daily driver that was both practical and engaging. The FL5 Type R immediately stood out as the ideal candidate. Seeking a four-door hatchback with manual transmission for an involving driving experience on both daily commutes and spirited weekend drives, the Civic Type R ticked all the boxes. The abundance of roundabouts and winding roads in my area further fueled the desire for a car that could make even mundane drives enjoyable.
The buying process for the FL5 Type R presented its own set of challenges and ultimately, a fortunate outcome. In late 2022, I began contacting local Honda dealerships to get on the Type R waiting list. Many dealerships were adding substantial markups due to limited availability, with some reaching as high as $10,000 over MSRP. However, one dealership offered a more reasonable $5,000 markup, directed towards charity, which was commendable.
Fortunately, my local dealership, with whom I had a long-standing relationship built on previous car purchases and service, offered the FL5 Type R at MSRP. This was a significant factor in my purchase decision, as securing a Type R without exorbitant markups was becoming increasingly rare. Initially quoted a wait time of several months, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a call in May 2023 informing me of an incoming Sonic Gray Pearl Type R. As Sonic Gray Pearl was my preferred color, and with two people ahead of me on the list opting for different colors, I was offered the vehicle.
Sonic Gray Pearl is a striking color that complements the black and red accents of the FL5 Type R. While it’s become a popular color across the Honda lineup, it still retains a unique appeal on the Type R. As a backup plan, I had also placed a deposit on an Integra Type S at my local Acura dealership. When the Type R became available, the decision was clear. Subsequently, I test drove the Integra Type S demo car and found it to be a compelling alternative, especially if Type R markups persisted. However, securing the FL5 Type R at MSRP solidified my satisfaction with my choice.
Performance-wise, the FL5 Type R has lived up to expectations. Having recently surpassed 5,000 miles, the car has proven to be both exhilarating and surprisingly efficient. Following a 500-mile break-in period, adhering to recommendations for keeping revs low, the engine’s responsiveness and power delivery became fully apparent. Fuel economy has averaged 23.3 mpg, exceeding the EPA city rating of 22 mpg, despite my spirited driving style. The relatively small fuel tank yields a range of approximately 230-250 miles on longer drives.
The customizable drive modes, including a user-configurable “Individual” mode, enhance the driving experience. My preferred Individual mode settings include Sport gauges, Type R engine sound, Sport steering, Comfort suspension, Sport steering, and Rev Match Sport. The rev-matching feature adds to the engaging driving dynamics, particularly when downshifting through roundabouts. For a more subdued driving experience, Comfort mode softens the car’s character considerably.
The FL5 Type R excels in handling, with exceptional turn-in and neutral handling characteristics, transitioning to mild oversteer at the limit, easily manageable with throttle modulation. Third gear is a standout, offering impressive pull throughout its rev range, making it ideal for both street and track driving. While not a drag racer, the FL5 Type R’s cornering prowess and overall driving engagement are truly remarkable.
However, ownership hasn’t been without minor issues. The paint on the rear brake calipers began deteriorating within a couple of months, a known issue that the dealership will address under warranty. Another minor gripe is the absence of Homelink garage door opener integration, requiring the use of traditional visor-mounted openers. A sunglass binnacle would also be a welcome addition to the interior.
The Recaro seats, while visually striking and supportive, present ingress and egress challenges due to their aggressive bolsters. A technique of firmly planting the right foot on the dead pedal while sliding into the seat helps mitigate this. The seats themselves are exceptionally comfortable, even on longer drives, and offer substantial padding. The design suggests potential seat rotation for wear equalization, should driver’s side bolster wear become an issue in the future. The dead pedal area also has a small exposed red carpet section, susceptible to wear, a minor design oversight.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the aspects I love about the FL5 Type R far outweigh the gripes. The Recaro seats, again, are a highlight – both aesthetically and functionally. The styling and stance of the FL5 Type R are aggressive and purposeful, fulfilling my desire for a GT3-esque experience in a more accessible package. The interior design is typically Honda-ergonomic, with user-friendly controls and seamless CarPlay integration, although occasional lag is noticeable. The red accents throughout the cabin add a sporty flair without being overwhelming. Practicality is also a strong point, with ample space for passengers and cargo.
Most importantly, the FL5 Type R is simply a joy to drive. It embodies the “No Boring Cars” mantra, eliciting positive reactions from onlookers and making every drive an event. The suspension, even in Comfort mode, strikes a balance between firmness and compliance, making it suitable for daily driving.
Future modifications are planned, focusing on enhancing the auditory experience with an aftermarket exhaust system, potentially the AWE Touring exhaust. An intake might also be considered primarily for increased engine noise. For winter driving, I’ve already swapped to Enkei TR6 wheels with Continental ExtremeContact tires, improving cold-weather performance.
In conclusion, the FL5 Type R has proven to be an exceptional vehicle, delivering a thrilling driving experience with everyday practicality. Minor gripes aside, the car’s performance, styling, and overall engagement make it a highly rewarding ownership experience and a worthy successor to the Type R lineage. For anyone considering a performance-oriented hatchback, the FL5 Type R should be at the top of the list.
