11/06/2026
: Honda Civic Type R (FN2) - Love It or Hate It, You'll Remember It
The third-generation Honda Civic Type R (FN2) arrived in 2007 with a mixed reception. This was the first Type-R that Honda SA brought to South Africa, meaning we had unfortunately missed out on the revered original and the brilliant .
A primary point of contention for the was its engine, largely carried over from the , which meant it offered no outright speed advantage over its predecessor. Furthermore, its chassis was technically a step backward, as the EP3’s sophisticated fully independent suspension setup was replaced with a less complex independent front, torsion beam/trailing arm rear arrangement for the , unlike the fully independent suspension found in the and versions.
While these details might have seemed disappointing on paper, on the road, the FN2 presented a somewhat different story. It provided South Africans with their first taste of the K20 - a 2.0-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine. This motor produced 148kW at 6,800rpm, but a seemingly low 193Nm of torque at 5,600rpm, at a time when its chief rivals had already embraced forced induction and boasted significantly more power.
The i-VTEC system, however, was not as overtly manic as the screamers of yesteryear. Instead of a distinct "crack" at 5500rpm, there was a more gradual, yet still very noticeable, changeover at the same RPM. The power delivery was remarkably linear, akin to a turbocharged car, and the engine's willingness to rev was undeniable, spinning eagerly to its 8,000rpm redline while emitting a distinctive, zingy din that the newer cannot hope to replicate. It was paired with a super-slick 6-speed manual transmission.
Performance figures included:
◾ 0-100kph: 7.75 seconds
◾ Top speed: 233kph
◾ 1 km sprint: 28.11 seconds (beating the Mk5)
Handling, however, proved disappointing by Type-R standards. Compared to rivals like the , the FN2 often found itself trailing on twisty roads. While the Championship White edition, launched in 2009 and featuring a standard limited-slip differential, offered some improvement, the FN2 never truly felt quick through corners. The front end would go precisely where pointed, but the rear could become light, particularly at higher speeds, demanding constant alertness from the driver when pushing the FN2 hard. The ride was also notoriously firm.
Inside, the trademark black and red bucket seats were no longer manufactured by , as with previous versions, but designed in-house by Honda. Similarly, the -made steering wheel was replaced by a Honda-produced version.
Today, nearly two decades after its launch, one of the most appealing aspects of owning an is the vast array of modification options available for its K20 engine, with tuning possibilities extending beyond forced induction to impressive naturally-aspirated upgrades. Despite its flaws, its unique lines, distinctive interior, and triangular exhaust pipes ensure it remains a head-turner, a car you either love or hate.
Coupled with 's renowned reliability, this car is practically bulletproof. While it may not appeal to everyone, it holds a strong draw for those who appreciate its futuristic styling, high-revving engine, and stiff, edgy handling. When it launched in 2007, it sold for R266,000. In 2025, a well-maintained example would command a significantly different price.
The Honda (FN2), a polarizing yet thrilling hot hatch that delivered a unique driving experience, stands as a true Mzansi Hero.
