2003 Honda Civic Type R review from UK and Ireland
"Hardcore rocketship from hell"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
No problems.
General comments?
I think the Type R is an excellent hot hatch. It's fast, fun, and has all the drama a hot hatch should.
The i-vtec engine is a screamer. Quite literally. Keep it above 6,000rpm and it's an absolute riot.
For an engine that revs so high, it's ultra reliable. Anybody with mechanical sympathy stay away.
The six speed gearbox is a joy to use; so much so that you find yourself changing gear for the thrill of it. Very precise and perfectly positioned. Brings out the best from the engine.
The ride is very firm, but it makes sense when you're on a twisty road, and the handling and balance of the car is excellent.
One criticism is the brakes; I think they're short of feel, and the ABS cuts in too early. A minor gripe.
The interior quality is good. The controls are well laid out and easy to use.
The seats are excellent, but I really hate that seats don't return to their original position when letting people in the back.
I would certainly buy another.
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| 2003 - Civic Type-R A/C 2.0L i-VTEC Best performance hot hatch on the market |
| FANTASTIC |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0L Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 21950 miles |
| Most recent distance | 33290 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Focus |
| Date of Entry | 31st December, 2007 |