Now in its eleventh generation, the Honda Civic has been an icon of reliability, exceptional value, and, in some cases, front-wheel-drive performance. Most people may not associate the Honda Civic with setting record lap times at the Nürburgring, but the FK8 Honda Civic Type R did just that.
The FK8 Honda Civic Type R was in production from 2017 to 2022 as part of the tenth generation for the model. So why would you consider buying it when there is a new, eleventh-gen model to look at? Listed below are ten reasons why the FK8 Type may still be the best Civic you can buy in 2026.
This list is not exhaustive. Used prices of the Honda Civic Type R FK8 can vary greatly depending on mileage, location, and overall condition.
Driving Feel
Real Feedback Felt Through Razor-sharp Steering
Telepathic, razor sharp, direct and communicative, are all words and phrases that have been used to describe the crisp and responsive steering on the FK8 Civic Type R. The FK8 Type R features a dual-pinion variable-ratio electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering system. This system was specifically designed and tuned for the Type R. This special tuning is intended to make the steering feel more direct and confident without allowing the car to feel out of control or twitchy.
The variable steering ratio switches between 14.9:1 for better stability at high speed and 11.7:1 for quicker response when turning. This is around a 17% variable range that aids in maintaining optimum control and minimizes the feeling of a numb steering system. This is achieved thanks to the dual pinion arrangement in the EPS itself. Like a traditional single pinion set up, one pinion handles the input from the steering column, but the variable ratio employs a second pinion that is connected to the electric motor and provides assistance directly to the rack. This system effectively reduces friction while mitigating torque steer. This is a huge win for a front-wheel-drive car, especially one as powerful as the Civic Type R.
High Power-To-Weight Ratio
An Invisible Advantage
2021 Honda Civic Type RHonda
The measurement of weight each unit of horsepower has to move, is a simplified breakdown of power to weight. The FK8 Civic relies on its stellar power to weight ratio to make it one of the most impressive hot hatches ever available from Honda. The Type R uses its 2.0-liter turbocharged K20C1 four-cylinder to produce 306 horsepower. With a curb weight that could swing anywhere from 3,042 to 3,117 lbs, this gives the FK8 a ratio of roughly 9.93 to 10.1 pounds per horsepower. Typically, the lower the number, the quicker the acceleration.
The power-to-weight ratio for the FK8 is excellent for a front-wheel-drive car, allowing it to achieve a 0–60 times of five to 5.2 seconds, depending on who’s driving and overall conditions. Numbers like that make the FK8 Type R competitive with the all-wheel-drive cars in its class, like the Ford Focus RS, and the Volkwagen Golf R.
Aggressive Styling
Hate It Or Love It
A blue 2021 Honda Civic Type R, rear 3/4 view outdoorsCarBuzz/Valnet
Looks are completely subjective. For instance, many people might feel that it’s hard to top the softer lines of the now classic sixth-gen Civic (the EM1 is especially beloved). The FK8 is, without a doubt, unapologetically bold. The many vents, wider fenders, and impossible to miss rear wing are all part of what makes the Type R so outrageously awesome. For comparison, take the Dodge Charger Daytona/Plymouth Superbird.
Completely polarizing, but what would those cars be today without their over-the-top aerodynamic extras? Every design element that is unique to the Type R solidifies its future collectible status and lends to its unmistakable identity as a true performance machine. Sure, the FL5 Type R may be a little more subtle and refined, but is that what you really want out of a limited production performance car? This is a car that wants to be seen. After all, the ‘R’ in Type R stands for racing not reserved.
Manual Transmission Only
Three Pedals And A Crash Box As Standard Equipment
2017 Honda Civic Type R Interior Gear ShifterHonda
Widely regarded as one of the best six-speed manuals available in a hot hatchback, the Type R’s box offers a highly engaging driving experience with precise short throw shifts. This close-ratio six-speed transaxle also utilizes a 4.11:1 final drive and limited-slip differential. This makes the car quick off the line and grippy when leaving a corner at a high rate of speed. The real star of the show is the Rev-Match Control system as part of the Type R experience. This is an electronic driver-assist function that automatically lightly hits or blips the throttle during downshifts.
The idea is to match the engine’s rpm to the lower gears’ speeds. Not only does this unique system make heel-toe downshifts much smoother, but it mitigates shocking the drivetrain as well. The Rev Match Control system uses a series of sensors to monitor clutch engagement, transmission neutral position, and transmission input shaft speed. When the clutch is pressed and a lower gear is selected, the system instantly detects the shift. A calculation of the required engine rpm for the new lower gear is based on vehicle speed and gear ratio. At this point, the ECM quickly blips the throttle, and the rpm matches the transmission speed for a smooth and seamless downshift. This also avoids wheel hop, over braking, and lurching. This system ultimately reduces wear on internal transmission parts like synchros, and helps reduce overall wear on other drivetrain components as well.
Outstanding Value Retention
A Great Way To Spend 35k…Roughly
2017 Honda Civic Type R window sticker close upBring A Trailer
Unfortunately, depreciation is real. With most vehicles losing 40–50% of their value in the first five years. The original MSRP for the FK8 Type R started from $33,900 but could quickly jump to over $38,000 depending on the options. Limited availability and customer demand tend to dictate the value. Many dealers were tacking on additional markups, calling it a “market adjusted price,” with some reports of up to $10,000 over the original MSRP.
According to the Kelley Blue Book website, the values have depreciated minimally. By KBB’s estimates, the overall depreciation trend for the FK8 Type R is a remarkably low 10–25% loss in value over the first five years. This is well below the average of most vehicles, which is stated above. Further, some low-mileage models in great condition are already showing appreciation in value.
Massive Aftermarket Support
You Want It, You Got It
2018 Honda Civic Type R engine bayBring A Trailer
The FK8, at its youngest, is five years old, but having been introduced to the US market in 2017, the Type R’s performance has been realized by many for nine years now. This has given performance aftermarket suppliers more than enough time to build a huge availability of performance parts for nearly every aspect of the Type R. It’s not just hard parts either. Several different tunes and tuners have flooded the market to provide optimum performance and efficiency for the Type R. Special tunes and a wide variety of quality, well-developed aftermarket parts make 400 horsepower or more, easily attainable for the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in the FK8 Type R.
Everyday Practicality
305 Horsepower, 4 Seats, 28 Miles Per Gallon, And Cargo Space
2021 Honda Civic Type RHonda
Often referred to as a “do it all” car, the Type R is still a four-door hatchback Civic at its core. Sure, it’s quick, offers plenty of horsepower, and comes with a unique rev-matching six-speed manual transmission, but the Type R has not forgotten its roots. The window sticker advertises 28 miles per gallon on the highway, 22 mpg in the city for a combined average of 25 mpg. Needless to say, as a proper economy hatchback, it won’t drain your pockets at the pump. Here are some other impressive numbers the Type R flaunts: the rear cargo area offers a grocery-getting 25.7 cubic feet of space with the rear buckets in their upright seating positions. However, with the rear seats situated in full cargo mode, folded down, this hot hatch opens up to a cavernous 46.2 cubic feet of cargo hold. Just remember, it’s still a Civic. If you want a small pickup truck, consider the Ridgeline.
Track Proven
Type R Is Not Just A Name
JAS Motorsport. Honda Civic Type-R. 2016 World Touring Car Championship. Motorsport. Racing.Honda
Proving its racing prowess on the challenging Nürburgring, the FK8 Type R was able to set the front-wheel-drive production car lap record in 2017 with an impressive time of 7 minutes and 43.8 seconds. The FK8 Type R bested the previous record holder for front-wheel drive, which was the Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport S, by over five seconds. The only front-wheel-drive car to best the FK8 was the 2023 FL5 Civic Type R.
The FK8 Type R’s monumental lap remains to be one of the fastest recorded on the Nürburgring for a front-wheel-drive car. Thanks to the Type R’s dual axis strut suspension and the limited-slip front differential, maximum grip is achieved while torque steer is minimized. Contributing to the Type R’s natural track prowess, its chassis is near 50/50 weight distribution, and the arguably polarizing aero package is actually functional. Although Honda never published official figures, in one interview, Rob Keough, Senior Product Planner for the Type R, stated that the rear wing can produce 66 pounds of downforce at 124 miles per hour, increasing cornering and straight line stability.
High Marks For Safety
NHTSA And IIHS Approved
Honda
For the sake of full disclosure, the NHTSA did not conduct separate crash tests for the Civic hatchback or Type R specifically. However, underneath the Type R’s bold aesthetic is still an advanced unibody structure and safety features that come with any Honda Civic of similar era. The NHTSA gives the 10th-generation Honda Civic a glowing five out of five overall safety rating for frontal, side and roll-over crashes. However, the IIHS did test the hatch back, but still not the Type R specifically, but the story is the same. The FK8 Type R received Good ratings across the board, earning it the Top Safety Pick title from IIHS. For the 2020 FK8 refresh, Honda included Honda Sensing collision avoidance as standard for all Civics, including the Type R, further bolstering the stellar safety of the Civic Type R.
Instant Cult Classic And Street Cred
This Civics Reputation Precedes It
2021 Honda Civic Type RHonda
Finally, the Civic overall has really grown from its humble beginnings as a basic economy car centered on affordability, low cost of ownership, and fuel-sipping efficiency. It has grown in size, comfort and, in the case of the Type R, horsepower. Like the 1999-2000 Honda Civic EM1, the FK8 Civic Type R was an instant classic, and future collectible. The FK8 Civic Type R offers blistering performance, ease of daily use, and practicality. For these reasons and many others, the Type R has a large community of enthusiasts that appreciate and enjoy these hot hatchbacks. Having such a large and active group of owners with shared enthusiasm offers a sense of belonging, which can add to the appeal of any car.
Base Trim Engine
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
306 hp
Base Trim Torque
295 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Fuel Economy
22/28 MPG
Infotainment & Features
9 /10
Sources: Honda, Cars.com, NHTSA, IIHS, KBB
FAQ
Q: How good is the FK8 Type R?
The FK8 Type is widely regarded as one of the best performance cars released by Honda. The FL5 Type R, however, offers more horsepower, but is more refined and loses some of the raw driving experience had by the FK8.
Q: What makes the FK8 Type R so special?
What makes the FK8 special is its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, rev-matching six-speed manual transmission, Type R-specific suspension, interior, and, of course, its limited production, plus it makes 306 horsepower.
Q: Which Civic Type R is the best?
That’s up for debate. The FK8 is older with less tech, but is known for delivering an unfiltered and raw driving experience, while the FL5 is more advanced in its driver’s aids and refinement. It really is dependent on what someone prioritizes in a performance car.
Q: Will the FK8 go up in value?
According to Kelley Blue Book, it already has in some cases, with earlier models showing a modest amount of appreciation.
