The top Civic model is the Type-R, an explosive device that uses Honda's 2.0-liter four-cylinder twin-cam engine, with its patented i-VTEC camshaft switching device. The raw numbers are 198 hp and 142 lb-ft of torque with a top speed of 146 mph, 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and a combined fuel economy of 25.8 mpg (U.S.).
 

Inside, the Type-R version gets sport seats that trade comfort for increased support. There are a load of natty go-faster extras like drilled aluminum pedals, Type-R doorsill plates, a red-stitched leather steering wheel and Alcantara seat insets and a cold and clammy bare-aluminum gearshift knob. The rear-seat practicality remains, with lifting rear-seat bases for the those "Do you mind if my St. Bernard comes along too?" days. The trunk is large as well; instead of a spare you get a pump and a bottle of gloop, and there is a secret lower compartment.

Start the engine via the ludicrously large red starter button and the mildly buzzy engine note confirms that, yes, this is indeed a performance Honda. Not that you'd notice it initially. The engine's torque might be spread further down and more evenly than in the old car, but with the scales tipping at 2793 pounds, the Type-R's engine has quite a lot to do. As a result the car feels brisk rather than fast. By the time the rev counter is indicating 5500 rpm, the engine feels asthmatic and is making a lot of noise, to no particular avail. Then something remarkable happens: inside the engine, the management computer engages a set of race-cam profiles, the exhaust adopts a spine-tingling scream and the charge starts all over again. Not that the performance is quite as ludicrous as the engine's note, but with a full 8000 rpm capability and the snappiest six-speed gearbox you'll find this side of a Hewland race-car transmission, you'll be having so much fun you'll barely notice the slight lack of urge.
 

Steering was the old car's bête noir; Honda has improved the new Type-R's helm immeasurably. A slight lack of feedback, yes, but positive and easy-to-judge corner entry speed. The ride, however, is simply appalling. You need to be careful you don't drive around with your tongue between your teeth in the Type-R—one big bump and you'll be lisping for the rest of your days. In fact, the ride is tiresome and after a while, painful, but it doesn't seem to affect the handling that much.
 

The Type-R is a very distinctive take on a performance car and unmistakably Honda. It's attractive and, for the most part, well-made, although the way the door skins flex when the electric windows close speaks of Honda cost-cutting in little areas we are not supposed to notice.

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