2001 Honda Civic Type-R review from UK and Ireland

Alarm had problems with arm/disarm - dealer fixed quickly under warranty.

SRS light came on twice, new airbag fitted in 1 hour cured problem.

Window seal twisted, replaced under warranty.

Each time the car visited Honda it came back valeted - perfect service.

Having owned R5GTT, 205 1.9GTi, Golf GTi and Clio Williams I am a big fan of hot hatches.

Had the Type-R about a year now and love it to bits, a different and higher speed fun to that I had in the Clio Williams and the 80's hot hatches I have owned, due to it being bigger and slightly less chuckable. Equally good in a different, more mature way.

Hitting the VTEC zone still makes me smile, as does showing a clean set of heels to most other cars.

Engine, Brakes, Gearchange and looks are all perfect!

Changed the noisy and frankly hopeless Bridgestone tyres to Federal SS595's and the difference in noise, handling and comfort was a revelation (especially as they are only £50.00 each)

Overall the Civic Type-R is fantastic, it handles and goes brilliantly, has probably the best engine and gearbox on the planet. The looks are not too in your face, but it still attracts admiration from people who know what it can do.

It is practical due to the size.

It can be a wild child or a pussy cat (depending on the side of the VTEC zone that you decide to live.)

It is reliable given the amount of abuse I throw at it.

Only two niggles are that the seats 'forget' the setting when you shift them forward to access the rear and the fuel economy is by no means great (25mpg average on a mixed road type run).

Otherwise I love my Type-R and will be ordering one of the facelifted ones as soon as the cash is available.