The Honda Civic Type R is being discontinued in the UK and Europe due to stringent emission standards. The Ultimate Edition, introduced by the Japanese automaker, marks the end of a 28-year production run for the vehicle and commemorates its time in the market.
The Civic Type R, which began as a grey import in 1997, has evolved over six generations and is now considered a driver’s car. The Ultimate Edition marks the end of the model’s 28-year production run and a commemoration of its evolution.
The Type R faces challenges in complying with new European regulations due to its lack of significant electric vehicle offerings and its CO2 emissions of 189g/km. This has also led to the culling of other performance cars like the Toyota GR86 and Alpine A110 in the region.
The Civic Type R has a reworked turbocharger and more efficient exhaust system, boosting its output to 315 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 310 pound-feet of torque at 2600 to 4000 rpm. It features a larger radiator, improved brake cooling, and increased rpm for the active exhaust valve.
The car also has a lighter flywheel and revised rev-match system, and a dual-axis strut front suspension for front-drive only. It has a prominent rear wing and 19-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tires.
The Civic Type R gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
To mark the end of this era, Honda is launching a limited “Ultimate Edition” of the Civic Type R in Europe, featuring cosmetic updates like red racing stripes, a black roof, and carbon fiber detailing. The final models will be available until July 2026, with high demand and expected premium prices.
The Civic Type R, however, will still be sold in the U.S. and Japan without any mechanical changes, while some European enthusiasts mourn its departure.
