Civic Type R (FN2) as a 16K pa daily. Am I mad?
Discussion
Rather than start a new 'what car' topic I when I'm already 80% certain on what I want, I thought I'd resurrect this thread.
I'm seriously considering getting an FN2 as my daily driver, to the point I'm -almost- set on that being my next purchase. Looking at something between 40-50k in terms of mileage, so budgeting between £7k and £8.5k.
I did initially consider a Golf GTI or an Audi S3, but for a decent example they're a out of my league price-wise. Is there anything else I've not thought about which might be worth looking at? Basically I want something that's in a roughly similar league performance-wise, that I can get a mountain bike in the back of once in a while and isn't a Focus ST. Anyone got any bright ideas? Cheers.
I'm seriously considering getting an FN2 as my daily driver, to the point I'm -almost- set on that being my next purchase. Looking at something between 40-50k in terms of mileage, so budgeting between £7k and £8.5k.
I did initially consider a Golf GTI or an Audi S3, but for a decent example they're a out of my league price-wise. Is there anything else I've not thought about which might be worth looking at? Basically I want something that's in a roughly similar league performance-wise, that I can get a mountain bike in the back of once in a while and isn't a Focus ST. Anyone got any bright ideas? Cheers.
mantis84 said:
Rather than start a new 'what car' topic I when I'm already 80% certain on what I want, I thought I'd resurrect this thread.
I'm seriously considering getting an FN2 as my daily driver, to the point I'm -almost- set on that being my next purchase. Looking at something between 40-50k in terms of mileage, so budgeting between £7k and £8.5k.
I did initially consider a Golf GTI or an Audi S3, but for a decent example they're a out of my league price-wise. Is there anything else I've not thought about which might be worth looking at? Basically I want something that's in a roughly similar league performance-wise, that I can get a mountain bike in the back of once in a while and isn't a Focus ST. Anyone got any bright ideas? Cheers.
Renault Megane R26? Huge boot for your bike and will out peform all the cars you've mentioned with plenty of change left over.I'm seriously considering getting an FN2 as my daily driver, to the point I'm -almost- set on that being my next purchase. Looking at something between 40-50k in terms of mileage, so budgeting between £7k and £8.5k.
I did initially consider a Golf GTI or an Audi S3, but for a decent example they're a out of my league price-wise. Is there anything else I've not thought about which might be worth looking at? Basically I want something that's in a roughly similar league performance-wise, that I can get a mountain bike in the back of once in a while and isn't a Focus ST. Anyone got any bright ideas? Cheers.
Plus I'm selling mine
mantis84 said:
Rather than start a new 'what car' topic I when I'm already 80% certain on what I want, I thought I'd resurrect this thread.
I'm seriously considering getting an FN2 as my daily driver, to the point I'm -almost- set on that being my next purchase. Looking at something between 40-50k in terms of mileage, so budgeting between £7k and £8.5k.
I did initially consider a Golf GTI or an Audi S3, but for a decent example they're a out of my league price-wise. Is there anything else I've not thought about which might be worth looking at? Basically I want something that's in a roughly similar league performance-wise, that I can get a mountain bike in the back of once in a while and isn't a Focus ST. Anyone got any bright ideas? Cheers.
I had an FN2 from new and did 90k miles in 4 years. Loved it. Drove with "enthusiasm" mostly and achieved 28mpg average. On long runs, I would easily get 32-33mpg which is acceptable. 52 ltr tank, so about £60 per fill.I'm seriously considering getting an FN2 as my daily driver, to the point I'm -almost- set on that being my next purchase. Looking at something between 40-50k in terms of mileage, so budgeting between £7k and £8.5k.
I did initially consider a Golf GTI or an Audi S3, but for a decent example they're a out of my league price-wise. Is there anything else I've not thought about which might be worth looking at? Basically I want something that's in a roughly similar league performance-wise, that I can get a mountain bike in the back of once in a while and isn't a Focus ST. Anyone got any bright ideas? Cheers.
As a daily driver, it's absolutely fine - it's got all the creature comforts (as long as you get the GT) and there's plenty of storage.
With regards to a bike, yes, you could put it in the boot (which is huge) or the Civic has "magic" rear seats. I.e. they can fold down as per usual, but also the seat base can fold "up" giving you a lot of storage behind the rear seats without having to compromise on boot space. Worked for my bikes nicely.
Only things to go wrong for me where - flat battery (replaced under warranty), and the legendary thin paint. Common lacquer peel and the solution is to wash the car yourself and not get too close with a pressure washer! 20k between changes for Dunlop Sportmaxx tyres and brakes and discs were replaced twice.
You will miss any form of torque, but the gear changes, steering and throttle response more than make up for it.
arun1uk said:
I had an FN2 from new and did 90k miles in 4 years. Loved it. Drove with "enthusiasm" mostly and achieved 28mpg average. On long runs, I would easily get 32-33mpg which is acceptable. 52 ltr tank, so about £60 per fill.
As a daily driver, it's absolutely fine - it's got all the creature comforts (as long as you get the GT) and there's plenty of storage.
With regards to a bike, yes, you could put it in the boot (which is huge) or the Civic has "magic" rear seats. I.e. they can fold down as per usual, but also the seat base can fold "up" giving you a lot of storage behind the rear seats without having to compromise on boot space. Worked for my bikes nicely.
Only things to go wrong for me where - flat battery (replaced under warranty), and the legendary thin paint. Common lacquer peel and the solution is to wash the car yourself and not get too close with a pressure washer! 20k between changes for Dunlop Sportmaxx tyres and brakes and discs were replaced twice.
You will miss any form of torque, but the gear changes, steering and throttle response more than make up for it.
Thanks - helpful stuff As a daily driver, it's absolutely fine - it's got all the creature comforts (as long as you get the GT) and there's plenty of storage.
With regards to a bike, yes, you could put it in the boot (which is huge) or the Civic has "magic" rear seats. I.e. they can fold down as per usual, but also the seat base can fold "up" giving you a lot of storage behind the rear seats without having to compromise on boot space. Worked for my bikes nicely.
Only things to go wrong for me where - flat battery (replaced under warranty), and the legendary thin paint. Common lacquer peel and the solution is to wash the car yourself and not get too close with a pressure washer! 20k between changes for Dunlop Sportmaxx tyres and brakes and discs were replaced twice.
You will miss any form of torque, but the gear changes, steering and throttle response more than make up for it.
Not sure the lack of torque will be an issue, as I've been driving an slightly dull '04 Focus 1.6 for the last few years so a type-r will certainly be a step up from that.
Nice thread resurrection!
WHen I started this thread I did look at Meganes but the interior also put me off, hateful things and wear badly. I'm glad I did as a friend bought one and has had to spend a lot of money on suspension joints wearing out in short miles.
I've racked up 31K in my FN2 in 16 months and it's been brilliant. I've recently had thoughts of changing it for an E90 320D touring but I get the nagging feeling that apart from fuel the BMW will cost me more to run. I've managed to eek out 38mpg on a long run in the civic by keeping sensible.
As long as you are happy with a pretty stiff ride you won't regret buying one.
WHen I started this thread I did look at Meganes but the interior also put me off, hateful things and wear badly. I'm glad I did as a friend bought one and has had to spend a lot of money on suspension joints wearing out in short miles.
I've racked up 31K in my FN2 in 16 months and it's been brilliant. I've recently had thoughts of changing it for an E90 320D touring but I get the nagging feeling that apart from fuel the BMW will cost me more to run. I've managed to eek out 38mpg on a long run in the civic by keeping sensible.
As long as you are happy with a pretty stiff ride you won't regret buying one.
I can't fault the fn2 as a daily driver, reliable, averaging 33 mpg on my 60 mile a day commute, it's not cost me a penny outside of servicing and usual maintenance, bags of space in the back and a fantastic engine/gearbox combination...
Unfortunately it does have it's issues... Paint is rubbish mine is covered in stone chips, the roof started to rust (fixed by Honda under warranty), the ride is terrible and ruins the flow of the car on anything but a perfect surface, it understeers badly (should have had an lsd as standard), 3rd gear can cause issues...
Have you considered BMW 130 or Clio 200?
Unfortunately it does have it's issues... Paint is rubbish mine is covered in stone chips, the roof started to rust (fixed by Honda under warranty), the ride is terrible and ruins the flow of the car on anything but a perfect surface, it understeers badly (should have had an lsd as standard), 3rd gear can cause issues...
Have you considered BMW 130 or Clio 200?
Axionknight said:
They are totally fine for keeping up with traffic when out and about - it's a 2.0 not a 1.0 snotter.
Avoid the 19" alloys that were a factory option, they ruin the ride, don't get em!
I'd heard the same regarding the 19" alloys - I prefer the look of the standard ones, so I'm looking for a red one with the standard alloys and the GT pack. Avoid the 19" alloys that were a factory option, they ruin the ride, don't get em!
Question re the GT pack - does it include an ipod dock/connector thing, or is that something I'll need to fit separately? Also, is the standard stereo any good? I'm not the type to put in silly subwoofers/amps and the like, but a decent-sounding stereo I can connect my ipod to is a pretty important.
mantis84 said:
Axionknight said:
They are totally fine for keeping up with traffic when out and about - it's a 2.0 not a 1.0 snotter.
Avoid the 19" alloys that were a factory option, they ruin the ride, don't get em!
I'd heard the same regarding the 19" alloys - I prefer the look of the standard ones, so I'm looking for a red one with the standard alloys and the GT pack. Avoid the 19" alloys that were a factory option, they ruin the ride, don't get em!
Question re the GT pack - does it include an ipod dock/connector thing, or is that something I'll need to fit separately? Also, is the standard stereo any good? I'm not the type to put in silly subwoofers/amps and the like, but a decent-sounding stereo I can connect my ipod to is a pretty important.
MRobbins1987 said:
I can't fault the fn2 as a daily driver, reliable, averaging 33 mpg on my 60 mile a day commute, it's not cost me a penny outside of servicing and usual maintenance, bags of space in the back and a fantastic engine/gearbox combination...
Unfortunately it does have it's issues... Paint is rubbish mine is covered in stone chips, the roof started to rust (fixed by Honda under warranty), the ride is terrible and ruins the flow of the car on anything but a perfect surface, it understeers badly (should have had an lsd as standard), 3rd gear can cause issues...
Have you considered BMW 130 or Clio 200?
Thanks for the response - I'll bear the dodgy paint and rust issues in mind when I start going out to look at prospective purchases. Heard about the 2nd/3rd gear issues, but I assume if there is an issue it will show itself on a test drive? Unfortunately it does have it's issues... Paint is rubbish mine is covered in stone chips, the roof started to rust (fixed by Honda under warranty), the ride is terrible and ruins the flow of the car on anything but a perfect surface, it understeers badly (should have had an lsd as standard), 3rd gear can cause issues...
Have you considered BMW 130 or Clio 200?
The BMW is good shout, but a little bit out of my budget for one with a decent spec and also doesn't look or seem all that 'special' to me, other than the badge, whereas I really like the Civic's looks and styling. The Clio does appeal somewhat based on how I understand it drives, but it's probably a bit small for my needs and suffers from the same cheap, nasty and bland (IMO) interior issues as the Megane R26 does. If it was just a fun weekend car that I wouldn't be spending too much time in it might not be so much of a problem, but as a daily driver I want something I'm not going get fed up of sitting in on my daily commute and such.
HorneyMX5 said:
mantis84 said:
Axionknight said:
They are totally fine for keeping up with traffic when out and about - it's a 2.0 not a 1.0 snotter.
Avoid the 19" alloys that were a factory option, they ruin the ride, don't get em!
I'd heard the same regarding the 19" alloys - I prefer the look of the standard ones, so I'm looking for a red one with the standard alloys and the GT pack. Avoid the 19" alloys that were a factory option, they ruin the ride, don't get em!
Question re the GT pack - does it include an ipod dock/connector thing, or is that something I'll need to fit separately? Also, is the standard stereo any good? I'm not the type to put in silly subwoofers/amps and the like, but a decent-sounding stereo I can connect my ipod to is a pretty important.
I'll keep my eye out for reversing sensors, but not really a must-have for me. Is cruise control standard? I've never had it on anything except rentals, and given the amount of time I seem to be spending in endless roadworks with average speed cameras (b
d things), it would be pretty useful. If you can, get an 09 onwards model - not sure if your budget will stretch to that but from this point I believe they came with LSD as standard, whereas beforehand it was only included on the championship white model. It doesn't necessarily need an LSD in my opinion, I'm running a 2008 FN2 GT with a supercharger and it's still fine, but it's a worthwhile addition if you can get one with it already fitted. Another worthwhile addition is a set of uprated springs and decent geo alignment, by all accounts it sorts most of the crashy suspension issues and also transforms the handling - this can be done for around 300-400 quid including the labour. If I could go back I'd have done this first rather than power, but I had a pot of cash and researched to death around the best way to spend it, for me the charger was the best route. 3rd gear can become notchy / pop out, so look out for this. Rust along the door seals and the top of the windscreen is quite well documented, but mine hasn't experienced any of this to date. The clutch can click or squeak when fully depressed which indicates potentially a new cylinder required. The subframe can click at low speeds when changing speed eg braking hard or accelerating, which is a simple case of removing the relevant bolts / bushes and re-greasing. Other than these minor issues they are bomb proof.... The interior was ahead of it's time and still looks modern by today's standards, it's a nice place to sit. All in all a brilliant car which didn't deserve the stick JC gave it. The Megane would also be a good shout, but I honestly cant think of any hatchbacks I'd rather drive - they are great fun and the K20 gives a nice involving drive. Just keep it above 5k when having fun or a milk float may piss on your fireworks
mantis84 said:
I'd heard the same regarding the 19" alloys - I prefer the look of the standard ones, so I'm looking for a red one with the standard alloys and the GT pack.
Question re the GT pack - does it include an ipod dock/connector thing, or is that something I'll need to fit separately? Also, is the standard stereo any good? I'm not the type to put in silly subwoofers/amps and the like, but a decent-sounding stereo I can connect my ipod to is a pretty important.
I have an FN2, had it for 3.5 years, like it so much I don't want to buy a new car! As said by others, looks great inside, bags of room can get my roadbike in without taking the wheels off, its fast enough for me, like how it looks and the VTEC sound! Yeah the ride is harsh but doesn't really bother me, I am used to it. Apart from servicing and tyres (Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2) is hasn't cost me anything, my roof was also resprayed under warranty. As for the ipod connector, in post 09 models there is a connector in the glove box, which you can connect a USB or ipod to. The stereo is fine for me, but I suppose its a personal thing.Question re the GT pack - does it include an ipod dock/connector thing, or is that something I'll need to fit separately? Also, is the standard stereo any good? I'm not the type to put in silly subwoofers/amps and the like, but a decent-sounding stereo I can connect my ipod to is a pretty important.
Blimey, I must be the only person on here who doesn't really like the FN2. I've had mine since last August, and I'm already contemplating getting rid. I've had every single one of the warranty issues since I bought it (thankfully from a dealer so haven't had to pay out), and now I've just discovered the rusty roof as well - this is 59 plate car, FFS.
We have an FN2 Type R. The Mrs has used it daily and has done about 15k in a year and her back is still in one piece so I really don't get the negativity towards the ride comfort. I get it will be different for every person but if it is too 'hard and crashy' for some people, it isn't a GT car, its a sports hatch.
I have also done hours of straight through driving on quite a few occasions and got out feeling fine.
No issues, just routine maintenance and servicing.
I run Uniroyal Rainsport 3's all round and these have been excellent.
The interior is a good place to be, to be honest the majority for sale are GT versions(when buying we found there was hardly any non-GT's for sale when looking)and as people say it has all the comforts needed. Dual climate, cruise, auto lights and wipers, air con.
Also a few come with the 'GP kit'. (slightly different bumpers). The middle of the front bumper is 'set in' slightly and is black and the middle of the black has a diffuser which is black.
The car as standard doesn't come with a spare at all. A spacesaver was available as an extra so if it has got one, be warned that if you get a puncture on the front, you have to put the spacesaver on the back first, then put the alloy off the back onto the front as the spacesaver doesnt fit over front calipers.
I have also done hours of straight through driving on quite a few occasions and got out feeling fine.
No issues, just routine maintenance and servicing.
I run Uniroyal Rainsport 3's all round and these have been excellent.
The interior is a good place to be, to be honest the majority for sale are GT versions(when buying we found there was hardly any non-GT's for sale when looking)and as people say it has all the comforts needed. Dual climate, cruise, auto lights and wipers, air con.
Also a few come with the 'GP kit'. (slightly different bumpers). The middle of the front bumper is 'set in' slightly and is black and the middle of the black has a diffuser which is black.
The car as standard doesn't come with a spare at all. A spacesaver was available as an extra so if it has got one, be warned that if you get a puncture on the front, you have to put the spacesaver on the back first, then put the alloy off the back onto the front as the spacesaver doesnt fit over front calipers.
I think it's clearly a matter of opinion and the roads you drive on. My wife does about 10-15k a year in her FN2 CTR and loves it. However, I find it a bit jiggly on the C roads where we live, and too noisy once you get out onto an A road SC or DC, although in fairness you tend to notice both more as a passenger. Would it be enough to stop me owning one? Probably not, no, but it is notcieable coming from my 3 series daily driver. My wife hates anything with softer suspension, so she's very happy with her car. Interestingly, the ride comfort is much better once up to speed at 50-60mph on a C road rather than 30-40mph.
Thanks again for the responses - all really helpful and I've come to the conclusion that I'll be getting myself an FN2... I guess I'll find out if I can put up with the hard ride or not - I'll report back in a couple of months I suppose! Anyone selling a red one with between 30k and 50k on the clock?!?
Regarding potential mods, this might be a bit of a dumb arse question, but is fitting the wheel spacers something I'd need to tell my insurers about? Looks like something that would be worth doing. Going to think about an induction kit later on if I think I need a bit of extra noise, but I'll probably leave it standard otherwise.
Regarding potential mods, this might be a bit of a dumb arse question, but is fitting the wheel spacers something I'd need to tell my insurers about? Looks like something that would be worth doing. Going to think about an induction kit later on if I think I need a bit of extra noise, but I'll probably leave it standard otherwise.
mantis84 said:
Thanks again for the responses - all really helpful and I've come to the conclusion that I'll be getting myself an FN2... I guess I'll find out if I can put up with the hard ride or not - I'll report back in a couple of months I suppose! Anyone selling a red one with between 30k and 50k on the clock?!?
Regarding potential mods, this might be a bit of a dumb arse question, but is fitting the wheel spacers something I'd need to tell my insurers about? Looks like something that would be worth doing. Going to think about an induction kit later on if I think I need a bit of extra noise, but I'll probably leave it standard otherwise.
Do declare them, it won't add any extra (mine didn't). I run with an HKS induction kit and it's pretty much OE soundwise when pottering. As son as you're in Vtec it sounds like a 90s touring car. Love it. Regarding potential mods, this might be a bit of a dumb arse question, but is fitting the wheel spacers something I'd need to tell my insurers about? Looks like something that would be worth doing. Going to think about an induction kit later on if I think I need a bit of extra noise, but I'll probably leave it standard otherwise.
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