2021 Honda Civic Type R Top Shot
The 2021 Honda Civic Type R marks the end of an era. This model year is the final curtain call for Honda’s iconic, high-performance hot hatchback with its distinctive rear wing. While a new generation of the standard Civic is on the horizon, enthusiasts will need to exercise patience for the next iteration of the celebrated Type R. As someone deeply familiar with this car, having reviewed it extensively and consistently praising its merits, the opportunity to experience the updated 2021 model one last time was irresistible. After undergoing a significant facelift the previous year, revisiting this final edition promised a fresh perspective.
A Refined Aesthetic
2021 Honda Civic Type R Front Three Quarter view
Across my previous reviews of the Civic Type R, I’ve been candid about its polarizing aesthetics, suggesting its styling might not stand the test of time. While I maintain that viewpoint, it’s undeniable that the 2020 facelift, particularly when combined with the sophisticated Polished Metal Metallic paint option, elevates its visual appeal. This specific color, a recent introduction in Canada, adds a touch of maturity to the Type R’s bold design.
2021 Honda Civic Type R Side Profile in motion
However, this refinement is only partial. The Type R’s side profile still presents a somewhat awkward stance. Its length and height can make the wheels appear undersized within the expansive wheel arches. The contour where the rear door panel meets the fender flare also remains a visually disruptive element. From certain angles, it creates an illusion of misalignment, slightly detracting from the overall design harmony.
Close-up of 2021 Honda Civic Type R Grille and Honda Logo
Despite these lingering quirks, Honda has successfully streamlined the front fascia. The removal of many faux air intakes contributes to a cleaner, more purposeful look. The enlarged lower grille opening, positioned in front of the intercooler, is not just aesthetic; it’s a functional improvement for enhanced engine breathing. Furthermore, the addition of splitters above the previously prominent fake vents, now subtly capped in plastic, serves to visually break up these areas, resulting in a significantly improved front-end design.
Crucially, the enhancements to the 2021 Honda Civic Type R extend beyond mere cosmetics. Honda focused on performance-oriented upgrades. Subtle yet impactful changes, such as a redesigned, shorter gear lever, contribute to quicker and more precise gear shifts. These seemingly minor tweaks collectively amplify the Type R’s capabilities as a high-performance machine.
Braking performance is also enhanced with new brake rotors and pads designed to minimize brake fade under demanding conditions. The front suspension has been meticulously retuned to provide improved steering feedback and feel, connecting the driver more intimately with the road. Engine cooling system revisions ensure better thermal management, particularly during rigorous track use. Interior refinements include a new suede-wrapped steering wheel for enhanced grip and tactile sensation, and the integration of digital audio enhancements. We will delve deeper into the audio experience later.
Front view of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R in Polished Metal Metallic paint
Beyond these updates, the core essence of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R remains unchanged, and rightfully so. It was already an engineering marvel. While the assertive styling might not resonate with everyone, the aerodynamic elements and downforce-generating features are functional, contributing to exceptional high-speed stability and road adhesion.
Side profile of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R showcasing wheel design
Powering the 2021 Type R is a potent turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 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 slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission. Honda has implemented advanced technology in the front axle design to effectively mitigate torque steer, a common challenge in powerful front-wheel-drive cars, and it performs admirably.
While the original article mentioned a Canadian price of $48,015, its relevance is now limited, as the 2021 Civic Type R is sold out in Canada. Enthusiasts looking to purchase a new Type R will need to await the arrival of the next-generation model.
Unleashed on the Road
2021 Honda Civic Type R Driving on a winding road
The natural habitat of the Civic Type R is the open road, particularly challenging, winding stretches of tarmac. Putting this philosophy into practice was the immediate course of action upon receiving the keys to the Type R.
Every evening became an opportunity to experience the thrill this machine offers.
The 2021 Honda Civic Type R is more than just a car; it’s an experience. In terms of driver engagement, it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with benchmark vehicles like the BMW M2 Competition and the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4. It firmly establishes itself as one of the most rewarding driver’s cars available.
The engine of the Type R is a powerhouse of performance. It delivers abundant power and torque across the rev range, readily available in any gear. While there’s a hint of turbo lag, Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing technology cleverly compensates, ensuring responsive power delivery even before the turbocharger fully spools. Once the boost kicks in, the Type R’s acceleration becomes truly exhilarating. It retains the rev-happy nature reminiscent of classic naturally aspirated Hondas, though a more aggressive exhaust note would be welcome. The enhanced digital audio system, unfortunately, doesn’t quite hit the mark, generating a somewhat artificial and buzzy electronic sound within the cabin that cannot be disabled.
2021 Honda Civic Type R driving on the road showcasing its profile
Ironically, there was a time when pumped-in audio was considered a preferable alternative to the lackluster engine sounds of some performance cars. However, in the 2021 Type R, the implementation feels somewhat off. Competitors like the Hyundai Veloster N demonstrate how to achieve a genuinely thrilling exhaust note straight from the factory.
Rear exhaust pipes of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R
The Civic Type R delivers impressive speed, though its front-wheel-drive configuration means outright acceleration from a standstill is limited by traction. Without all-wheel drive or launch control, drag strip performance isn’t its forte. The true brilliance of the Type R emerges in the corners. Its cornering grip is phenomenal for a front-wheel-drive car, exhibiting remarkable front-end bite when applying throttle mid-corner. To call the driving experience fun and addictive is an understatement; you’ll likely deplete the fuel tank long before tiring of driving it.
Interior view of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R dashboard and infotainment system
Through multiple reviews of the Civic Type R, a consistent revelation is its surprising everyday usability. Experiencing a diverse range of high-performance vehicles, including personal vehicles like a MINI Cooper and BMW E39 5-Series, highlights just how well-composed the Type R’s suspension is, even on imperfect road surfaces.
Close up of the red bucket seats in the 2021 Honda Civic Type R interior
Honda provides three distinct drive modes that adjust the adaptive dampers. “R+” mode delivers a firm, track-focused setup, while “Sport” mode offers minimal discernible difference. “Comfort” mode, however, transforms the Type R into a surprisingly compliant and comfortable daily driver, mirroring the ride quality of a standard Honda Civic. The supportive racing-inspired bucket seats provide a superior blend of support and comfort, even surpassing some premium German marques. And the tactile pleasure of the gear lever, snicking through each gear with precision, is truly exceptional – arguably the best manual gearbox in production today.
2021 Honda Civic Type R driving away showcasing rear lights
Adding to its practicality, the Type R boasts a generously sized rear seat and a cavernous cargo area, capable of accommodating a mountain bike without disassembly. It’s a genuine race car for the road, cleverly disguised in the unassuming form of a Honda Civic.
In conclusion, the 2021 Honda Civic Type R is a resounding success, particularly in its driving dynamics and technical execution. However, the styling and synthesized engine sound are areas that could be improved. The ideal next-generation Type R would retain the exceptional drivetrain and handling prowess, wrapped in a more universally appealing design with a naturally authentic and potent exhaust note.
Clavey’s Verdict
Review of the 2021 Honda Civic Type R by William Clavey
Hot Hatchbacks
Pros:
- Brilliant chassis
- Fantastic power delivery
- Comfortable, spacious and easy to live with
Cons:
- Still looks like a cartoon (Styling)
- Buzzy pumped in audio
- Needs a fully customizable drive mode
Score:
9 / 10
Clavey’s Corner is based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Please note that prices and trim levels mentioned in this article are specific to the Canadian market.
Special thanks: Honda Canada
Photography: Guillaume Fournier
Contact the author: [email protected]
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