2021 Honda Civic Type R Top Shot
The 2021 Honda Civic Type R marks the end of an era. This model year represents the final curtain call for Honda’s celebrated, high-performance hatchback, complete with its distinctive rear wing. While anticipation builds for the arrival of a new Civic generation shortly, enthusiasts will need to exercise patience as the next iteration of the formidable Type R is expected to debut a year later. For those familiar with this platform, the accolades and admiration it has garnered are well-known. Having extensively reviewed previous models and consistently praised its exhilarating performance, the opportunity to experience the 2021 Type R one last time is undeniably compelling. Especially considering the significant enhancements it received just the previous year, revisiting this hot hatch promises to be a worthwhile endeavor.
Sharpening the Edges: A More Refined Aesthetic
2021 Honda Civic Type R Front Three Quarter View
Across multiple reviews of the Civic Type R, criticisms regarding its polarizing aesthetics have been voiced, suggesting its styling might not stand the test of time. This perspective remains, yet it’s undeniable that the 2021 facelift, particularly when coupled with the Polished Metal Metallic paint finish introduced to the Canadian market, lends a degree of visual sophistication to the vehicle.
2021 Honda Civic Type R Side Profile on Display
However, the transformation is subtle. The design still presents a busy visual character, and the side profile continues to appear somewhat disproportionate. Its length and height can make the wheels seem undersized within the expansive wheel arches. An unusual contour where the rear door meets the fender flare, from certain angles, creates a somewhat unconventional aesthetic.
Close-up of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R Grille Design
Despite these subjective design critiques, Honda has demonstrably refined the front fascia of the 2021 Type R by eliminating many of the non-functional air intakes. A larger opening at the front, positioned to enhance airflow to the intercooler, is a notable improvement. Furthermore, the addition of splitters above the previously faux vents, now replaced with plastic caps, contributes to a cleaner, more cohesive front-end design. The result is a noticeable enhancement in visual appeal.
Crucially, the enhancements to the 2021 Honda Civic Type R extend beyond mere aesthetics. Honda’s focus on performance upgrades is evident in details like the introduction of a shorter gear lever for quicker, more precise shifts. These seemingly minor changes accumulate to elevate the Type R’s already impressive performance capabilities.
Upgrades to the braking system, including new rotors and pads, are implemented to mitigate brake fade under demanding conditions. The front suspension has been recalibrated to provide enhanced steering feedback, and the engine’s cooling system has been optimized to better endure rigorous track use. Inside, a new suede-wrapped steering wheel adds a tactile upgrade, alongside advancements in digital audio integration. The impact of the latter will be explored further.
Front View of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R in Polished Metal Metallic
Beyond these updates, the core elements of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R remain unchanged, a testament to its already exceptional engineering. While its visually assertive styling might not resonate with everyone, the aerodynamic elements and downforce-generating features are functional, contributing to the car’s remarkable stability at high speeds.
Studio Shot of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R
Powering the 2021 Type R is a potent turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power is channeled exclusively to the front wheels via a mechanical limited-slip differential, managed by a six-speed manual transmission. Honda has incorporated advanced torque-steer mitigation technology within the front axle, which proves remarkably effective in maintaining control and composure.
While pricing discussions, particularly the Canadian MSRP of $48,015 mentioned in the original review, are now largely academic given the model’s sold-out status in Canada, the focus shifts to the driving experience and the anticipation for the next generation Type R.
Unleashed on the Open Road: The Driving Experience
2021 Honda Civic Type R Driving on Road Side Front Angle
The natural environment for the Civic Type R is the open road, particularly winding stretches of tarmac that demand driver engagement. This is where the 2021 model truly excels.
Every drive in the Type R becomes an event, a testament to its compelling driver-focused design. In terms of driver involvement and sheer exhilaration, the Type R confidently competes with benchmarks like the BMW M2 Competition and Porsche Cayman GT4. It firmly establishes itself as one of the premier driver’s cars available.
Close-up of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R Gear Shifter
The engine of the Type R is characterized by its relentless power delivery. It offers a surge of power and torque across the rev range and in any gear, readily available at the driver’s command. While a slight hint of turbo lag is present, Honda’s VTEC technology mitigates this by providing immediate responsiveness before the turbo fully spools. Once boost is achieved, the Type R unleashes its full potential, offering a thrilling surge of acceleration. It retains a willingness to rev reminiscent of older naturally aspirated Honda engines, though the engine note itself could be more sonorous. The digitally enhanced audio, unfortunately, falls short, sounding artificial and intrusive within the cabin, and lacks an option to disable it.
2021 Honda Civic Type R Driving on Road Side View
Ironically, initial opinions on simulated engine sounds favored them over the often-underwhelming natural sounds of performance drivetrains. However, the implementation in the 2021 Type R misses the mark. In contrast, the Hyundai Veloster N provides a benchmark for authentic and engaging exhaust notes.
Exhaust System Detail of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R
The Type R’s acceleration is rapid, although launching from a standstill requires careful throttle modulation to manage front-wheel-drive traction. Lacking all-wheel drive or launch control, outright drag strip performance isn’t its forte. Instead, the 2021 Honda Civic Type R truly shines in dynamic driving scenarios, particularly on winding roads. Its cornering grip is exceptional for a front-wheel-drive vehicle, exhibiting a remarkable tendency to tighten its line when applying throttle mid-corner. Describing the driving experience as fun and addictive is an understatement; the desire to drive it often outlasts fuel capacity.
Interior View of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R Cabin
Repeated experiences with the Civic Type R have highlighted its surprising duality. Despite its track-focused capabilities, it exhibits remarkable composure and docility in daily driving. Exposure to numerous high-performance vehicles, including personal experience with a MINI Cooper and BMW E39 5-Series, underscores the Type R’s adeptly tuned suspension, particularly its ability to handle imperfect road surfaces with unexpected refinement.
Sport Bucket Seats of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R
Honda’s selectable drive modes further enhance adaptability. “R+” mode sharpens responses for track-oriented driving, while “Sport” mode offers minimal discernible difference. “Comfort” mode, however, transforms the Type R into a surprisingly compliant daily driver, mirroring the ride quality of a standard Honda Civic. The supportive racing-style bucket seats offer a blend of bolstering and comfort that surpasses expectations, even outperforming some BMW offerings. The tactile feel and precision of the gear lever during rapid shifts are exceptional, arguably setting a benchmark for manual transmissions.
2021 Honda Civic Type R Driving on Road Rear Angle
Adding to its practicality, the 2021 Type R retains the Civic’s spacious rear seating and a substantial cargo area capable of accommodating large items like a mountain bike. It embodies the essence of a road-going race car, yet maintains the everyday usability of a Honda Civic.
In conclusion, the 2021 Honda Civic Type R represents a significant achievement, particularly in its driving dynamics and technical execution. While styling and the artificial engine sound remain points of contention, the core driving experience is undeniably exceptional. The anticipation for the next-generation Type R centers on hopes for a more visually refined design and a more authentic, engaging exhaust note, while retaining the celebrated drivetrain and dynamic prowess of this generation.
Clavey’s Verdict
Review of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R by William Clavey Hot Hatchbacks
Pros:
- Brilliant chassis dynamics
- Fantastic and responsive power delivery
- Comfortable, spacious, and practical for daily use
Cons:
- Styling remains polarizing, described as cartoonish
- Artificial and buzzy pumped-in audio system
- Lacks a fully customizable individual drive mode
Rating: 9 / 10
Clavey’s Corner is based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Please note that pricing and trim level information in this article reflect the Canadian market.
Special Thanks: Honda Canada
Photography: Guillaume Fournier
Contact the Author: [email protected]
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