2002 Honda Civic Type-R from UK and Ireland - Comments

Changing into 2nd gear used to be notchy, but it seems to have cleared up.

Handling and grip is superb. It goes around crazy corners without any tyre squeal. Just direct the steering wheel (make sure you get the direction right!) and slam the gas. Have not tried anything risky in the wet though having read reviews about the factory supplied Bridgestones.

The engine is beautiful Honda engineering and if it is anything like previous Honda engines, I have driven, it should stay tight for many miles. Over 5000 revs and the engine starts to hit Vtec. Some people find keeping it in Vtec band a pain and unusable, but I am used to it. Make a quick gear change over 7000rpm though and you might smell the clutch! Even under 5000 it pulls well. In return for modest driving you get fuel figures which would shame your average 1.6 saloon.

The styling is a personal thing, but I like it. To me it doesn't look like a MPV as has been claimed by various magazine reviewers.

I agree, Honda can teach a lot of other manufacturers how to build an engine properly, they are so reliable and economical and go on for ever. Unfortunately, Hondas, like other japanese companies make very blandly styled cars. Oh yes, the new Civic does look like a mini MPV!

I think the standard Civic does look bland, but the Type-R styling looks very good.

Just test driven a Type-R and was disappointed. Yes its fast and it seems to handle quite well, but its one of the most basic cars inside I have ever driven. I appreciate its mainly a drivers car, but some creature comforts wouldn't go a miss.

Original poster here. Electric Windows, Electric heated Door mirrors, Central locking and Power Steering are all the comforts I need. I got A/C option as well. There is plenty of stowage, cup holders etc.

Sorry to disappoint you, but you have titled this review as Nothing beats it for value..it's a great car granted, but as for nothing beating it... Errm what about the Clio 182? Comes standard with A/C, Cruise control, auto everything and loads of other stuff, performance wise its on par with the Type r. If you doubt what I'm saying then take a look at Aprils Evo or Car mag. They both rate it as the best hot hatch, evo even claiming the best ever.. and it's a couple of grand less. So sorry, good car yes.. nothing to beat it NO.

But you won't get the build quality and reliability of a Honda with a Clio! I own a Honda VTI 1.8 and so does my friend. He thrashes the backside off his and the engine is legendary!