Honda Civic Type R
Discussion
I got a new job in March of this year and thankfully the new job is much closer to home, which means I can cycle to work on a regular basis.
This reduced annual mileage meant that I didn't really need the Saab 9-3 anymore and could move to something a bit more fun.
The shortlist was narrowed down to a Subaru Impreza WRX blob eye, Renault Megane 225 and a Honda Civic Type R (EP3 and FN2)
The Impreza was eventually ruled out as to keep Mrs Bakerstreet on the insurance it was too expensive. The interior was also very dated. The Megane just didn't feel very special and also I had read a few horror stories on the tinternet.
I then ended up with the Civics
I decided on the FN2 because the interior is leagues ahead of the EP3 and I wanted cruise control. I also think it looks slightly more special than the EP3s.
Mine is a 2007 GT with the usual GT spec, so it has cruise, duel zone AC, auto wipers/lights and folding mirrors. On top of that, mine has rear parking sensors and the optional space saver spare wheel, which I'm lead to believe will only work on the back as it doesn't clear the front brakes on the R....Bit daft.
I chose this car because I wanted a red one and it was the best compromise on condition, mileage, service history and distance from where I live. I looked at 6 in total and if I wanted to look at others, it would mean 500 mile round trips
Just a few pics from the test drive and collection.
So far, I've only driven it 150 miles, but below is a brief summary of my thoughts. Some sections are titled using some of the more common phrases heard when discussing Type Rs and FN2s.
"There isn't any torques"
The saab was a 1.9TID with 150bhp and 240lbs/ft. The Civic is 198bhp with 146lbs/ft. Yes it hasn't got the grunt that the Saab had, but it isn't the annoyance that I was expecting. I certainly haven't felt the need to be constantly swapping gears to overtake things. However, I'm happy to pootle about at perfectly normal speeds.
'The ride'
Yep, its not great. When my phone is in a screen mounted cradle, it bounces about a bit which is bit annoying if you are in the process of getting lost and you need a good view of the nav software. Apparently there are some aftermarket springs that help settle it.
Rear Suspension
This is a favourite topic in EP3/FN2 discussions. I chucked it round a set of mini roundabouts yesterday and managed to provoke a bit of understeer. I used to drive my Saab round the same roundabouts and it would be fine. Maybe the beam axel could be the reasoning behind the understeer. I'd like to add that I am no handling expect. I'm just commenting on my own impressions. However, I still really like the way it handles. Steering is much more precise than the Saab and it feels much more sure footed.
Practicality
The seats fold completely flat, which they didn't in the Saab. The boot looks pretty big with the seats folded flat. The car also fits my dive gear in comfortably, which is important for me.
WHat is annoying is lack of provision of bike carrying ability outside of the boot. Honda say you can't put a rack on the boot because of design, glass and the fact that its made out of plastic. That's fine, I'll just buy a set a bars...Err...you can't do that either unless you want to modify the roof channel trim and write them off. I didn't find out about this until after I put down a deposit. Bit annoying really as I do prefer to carry the bike outside the car for long journeys.
Interior
This is the FN2's tour de force. It looks fantastic and despite its 96k, the interior on my car is in mint condition. The only signs of wear are the gear lever gaiter. Lots of storage bins and reasonably sized door storage. Stereo is pretty decent too. I can't get my itunes data Cds to read properly, but these can be a bit hit and miss in my experience.
"you can't see anything out the back"
I'm kinda getting used to not seeing the middle of the cars behind you. The angle of bottom glass also distorts the view slightly. Rear 3/4 visibility is bad to small rear windows. I'm not looking forward to my first attempt at parallel parking the car. I'm grateful for the parking sensors, as it makes reversing a little easier. Front visibility is terrible. I'm 5ft 10in and I just can't see the front of the car at all. It can make it a bit nerve racking to manoeuvre. The steering lock isn't great either.
I'm fairly happy with the car. I love the way it looks. Adding the Bluetooth kit and aux in will probably be done immediately as I do like my own tunes when in the car. Should help a bit for resale too
The To DO List
New pads and discs all round
Parrot Bluetooth/aux/usb Interface kit
Service after 5k (Oil filter, air filter and oil change)
If I keep the car a while, then I may get the front end re-sprayed as it has suffered with stone chips, which is fairly common on Civics of this era.
I'm also tempted by an induction kit and a full stainless exhaust system like Cobra or Miltek. However that would be a luxury item.
I appreciate that the FN2 is not exactly a favourite in Type R circles, but I'm really pleased with mine, hence I'm sharing my photos and a brief review
I'm hoping to update the thread after 5k of running
This reduced annual mileage meant that I didn't really need the Saab 9-3 anymore and could move to something a bit more fun.
The shortlist was narrowed down to a Subaru Impreza WRX blob eye, Renault Megane 225 and a Honda Civic Type R (EP3 and FN2)
The Impreza was eventually ruled out as to keep Mrs Bakerstreet on the insurance it was too expensive. The interior was also very dated. The Megane just didn't feel very special and also I had read a few horror stories on the tinternet.
I then ended up with the Civics
I decided on the FN2 because the interior is leagues ahead of the EP3 and I wanted cruise control. I also think it looks slightly more special than the EP3s. Mine is a 2007 GT with the usual GT spec, so it has cruise, duel zone AC, auto wipers/lights and folding mirrors. On top of that, mine has rear parking sensors and the optional space saver spare wheel, which I'm lead to believe will only work on the back as it doesn't clear the front brakes on the R....Bit daft.
I chose this car because I wanted a red one and it was the best compromise on condition, mileage, service history and distance from where I live. I looked at 6 in total and if I wanted to look at others, it would mean 500 mile round trips
Just a few pics from the test drive and collection.
So far, I've only driven it 150 miles, but below is a brief summary of my thoughts. Some sections are titled using some of the more common phrases heard when discussing Type Rs and FN2s.
"There isn't any torques"
The saab was a 1.9TID with 150bhp and 240lbs/ft. The Civic is 198bhp with 146lbs/ft. Yes it hasn't got the grunt that the Saab had, but it isn't the annoyance that I was expecting. I certainly haven't felt the need to be constantly swapping gears to overtake things. However, I'm happy to pootle about at perfectly normal speeds.
'The ride'
Yep, its not great. When my phone is in a screen mounted cradle, it bounces about a bit which is bit annoying if you are in the process of getting lost and you need a good view of the nav software. Apparently there are some aftermarket springs that help settle it.
Rear Suspension
This is a favourite topic in EP3/FN2 discussions. I chucked it round a set of mini roundabouts yesterday and managed to provoke a bit of understeer. I used to drive my Saab round the same roundabouts and it would be fine. Maybe the beam axel could be the reasoning behind the understeer. I'd like to add that I am no handling expect. I'm just commenting on my own impressions. However, I still really like the way it handles. Steering is much more precise than the Saab and it feels much more sure footed.
Practicality
The seats fold completely flat, which they didn't in the Saab. The boot looks pretty big with the seats folded flat. The car also fits my dive gear in comfortably, which is important for me.
WHat is annoying is lack of provision of bike carrying ability outside of the boot. Honda say you can't put a rack on the boot because of design, glass and the fact that its made out of plastic. That's fine, I'll just buy a set a bars...Err...you can't do that either unless you want to modify the roof channel trim and write them off. I didn't find out about this until after I put down a deposit. Bit annoying really as I do prefer to carry the bike outside the car for long journeys.
Interior
This is the FN2's tour de force. It looks fantastic and despite its 96k, the interior on my car is in mint condition. The only signs of wear are the gear lever gaiter. Lots of storage bins and reasonably sized door storage. Stereo is pretty decent too. I can't get my itunes data Cds to read properly, but these can be a bit hit and miss in my experience.
"you can't see anything out the back"
I'm kinda getting used to not seeing the middle of the cars behind you. The angle of bottom glass also distorts the view slightly. Rear 3/4 visibility is bad to small rear windows. I'm not looking forward to my first attempt at parallel parking the car. I'm grateful for the parking sensors, as it makes reversing a little easier. Front visibility is terrible. I'm 5ft 10in and I just can't see the front of the car at all. It can make it a bit nerve racking to manoeuvre. The steering lock isn't great either.
I'm fairly happy with the car. I love the way it looks. Adding the Bluetooth kit and aux in will probably be done immediately as I do like my own tunes when in the car. Should help a bit for resale too
The To DO List
New pads and discs all round
Parrot Bluetooth/aux/usb Interface kit
Service after 5k (Oil filter, air filter and oil change)
If I keep the car a while, then I may get the front end re-sprayed as it has suffered with stone chips, which is fairly common on Civics of this era.
I'm also tempted by an induction kit and a full stainless exhaust system like Cobra or Miltek. However that would be a luxury item.
I appreciate that the FN2 is not exactly a favourite in Type R circles, but I'm really pleased with mine, hence I'm sharing my photos and a brief review
I'm hoping to update the thread after 5k of running
Very nice. Good colour too.
I'd be interested to know which brakes you go for. I did a lot of research into this and couldnt find a highly recommended combination.
How are you finding fuel consumption? I struggle to get over 25mpg around town driving very sensibly. A bit less than I expected before buying it.
I'd be interested to know which brakes you go for. I did a lot of research into this and couldnt find a highly recommended combination.
How are you finding fuel consumption? I struggle to get over 25mpg around town driving very sensibly. A bit less than I expected before buying it.
Torquey said:
Very nice. Good colour too.
I'd be interested to know which brakes you go for. I did a lot of research into this and couldnt find a highly recommended combination.
How are you finding fuel consumption? I struggle to get over 25mpg around town driving very sensibly. A bit less than I expected before buying it.
I'm currently looking at a combination of Brembo discs/Mintex pads or M-Tech discs/Mintex pads. My local garage are saying go for Honda items, but the discs are £90 each and I've never run original equipment discs on any of my cars and I've never had a problem. I'd be interested to know which brakes you go for. I did a lot of research into this and couldnt find a highly recommended combination.
How are you finding fuel consumption? I struggle to get over 25mpg around town driving very sensibly. A bit less than I expected before buying it.
I've only done about 160 miles, so can't judge at this stage. I'm actually hoping to get 27-30mpg average. My commute is mostly A roads and motorway and I tend to stick to the speed limit and use cruise control a lot. Thankfully poor fuel consumption is being countered by the fact that I cycle to work a lot. If my situation changes, I'd have to ditch the Civic in favour of something better on fuel.
bakerstreet said:
I'm currently looking at a combination of Brembo discs/Mintex pads or M-Tech discs/Mintex pads. My local garage are saying go for Honda items, but the discs are £90 each and I've never run original equipment discs on any of my cars and I've never had a problem.
Genuine discs here, £94 pair +VAT.http://www.coxmotorparts.co.uk/2007-2011-type-r-br...
Always get my service bits from these guys, fantastic prices and excellent service. Just had new OEM discs and pads all round for my ATR, £300 delivered to my door next day!
bakerstreet said:
I'm currently looking at a combination of Brembo discs/Mintex pads or M-Tech discs/Mintex pads. My local garage are saying go for Honda items, but the discs are £90 each and I've never run original equipment discs on any of my cars and I've never had a problem.
I've only done about 160 miles, so can't judge at this stage. I'm actually hoping to get 27-30mpg average. My commute is mostly A roads and motorway and I tend to stick to the speed limit and use cruise control a lot. Thankfully poor fuel consumption is being countered by the fact that I cycle to work a lot. If my situation changes, I'd have to ditch the Civic in favour of something better on fuel.
In my EP3 with essentially the same engine, I used to average around 33-34mpg on motorways travelling at 'around' 80mph, around town that would drop to around 25-27mpg..I've only done about 160 miles, so can't judge at this stage. I'm actually hoping to get 27-30mpg average. My commute is mostly A roads and motorway and I tend to stick to the speed limit and use cruise control a lot. Thankfully poor fuel consumption is being countered by the fact that I cycle to work a lot. If my situation changes, I'd have to ditch the Civic in favour of something better on fuel.
bakerstreet said:
The optional space saver spare wheel, which I'm lead to believe will only work on the back as it doesn't clear the front brakes on the R....Bit daft.
This is the same on the EP3. If you have a front go flat, you have to put the space saver on the back and put the good back wheel on the front. Pain in the arse!reymatt said:
In my EP3 with essentially the same engine, I used to average around 33-34mpg on motorways travelling at 'around' 80mph, around town that would drop to around 25-27mpg..
That sounds promising. I've done about 170 miles now and the gauge is showing just over 3/4 full. I know its not a car designed for good economy, but every little helps I do like these FN2s, I prefer pretty much everything about the EP3 bar the interior, but I didn't buy mine for the interior (though it is nice enough) but if I ever wanted a plusher version of my current car at the expense of some of the driving edge, I'd definitely consider an FN2, it speaks volumes that they don't call it a Type R in Japan, instead badging it as a Euro R. I'd much rather have one of these over a turbocharged car in the same segment.
Here is mine:
They are really good cars, there are a few negative aspects but most can be sorted (new springs for example). If you've not already get on to civinfo.com, really good forum
I regularly get 38 mpg at 72 mph on cruise control and have got 43 mpg on a particularly boring drive to work at around 60 mph.
They are really good cars, there are a few negative aspects but most can be sorted (new springs for example). If you've not already get on to civinfo.com, really good forum
I regularly get 38 mpg at 72 mph on cruise control and have got 43 mpg on a particularly boring drive to work at around 60 mph.
Type R Tom said:
Here is mine:
They are really good cars, there are a few negative aspects but most can be sorted (new springs for example). If you've not already get on to civinfo.com, really good forum
I regularly get 38 mpg at 72 mph on cruise control and have got 43 mpg on a particularly boring drive to work at around 60 mph.
Also have one, exactly the same as above, bought for the exactly the same reasons at the OP, new job and cycle to work most of the week. MPG is probably 24 around town but get 37/38 on a motorway run at 70mph but knew this when I got it, VTEC gets additive. Its much maligned in some circles, but I love it. As said very practical with the back seats down and I have had my road bike in the boot loads of time. They are really good cars, there are a few negative aspects but most can be sorted (new springs for example). If you've not already get on to civinfo.com, really good forum
I regularly get 38 mpg at 72 mph on cruise control and have got 43 mpg on a particularly boring drive to work at around 60 mph.
Type R Tom said:
Here is mine:
They are really good cars, there are a few negative aspects but most can be sorted (new springs for example). If you've not already get on to civinfo.com, really good forum
I regularly get 38 mpg at 72 mph on cruise control and have got 43 mpg on a particularly boring drive to work at around 60 mph.
Most people travel at 60-70mph on the section of motorway that I use, so its good t hear respectable mpg numbers can be had from the Civic. From what I've read, the FN2 is meant to be slightly better on fuel compared to the EP3. They are really good cars, there are a few negative aspects but most can be sorted (new springs for example). If you've not already get on to civinfo.com, really good forum
I regularly get 38 mpg at 72 mph on cruise control and have got 43 mpg on a particularly boring drive to work at around 60 mph.
I looked at a couple of black examples with the Rage alloys and the cars weren't quite up to standard. Also, I wasn't too keen on paying out for the sizable tyres. I'll be able to afford some good quality rubber on the 18s. I prefer the look of the standard alloys too
My car sounds quite fruity too. It hasn't got a performance system fitted, but it makes a pleasant noise.
Took Mrs Bakerstreet out in it last night. her first words were 'its bouncier than the Saab' swiftly followed by 'look how snazzy the gauges look'. This is probably as close as I'll get to approval
rumple said:
Looks good, I quite like these , they ruined the look with the facelift but yours is just right, enjoy.
hmmmph, well I like my facelift version 
Mpg - I re-set the trip on mine when I bought it. 7,500 miles in and its sitting at 33.2 mpg. One way commute is 11 miles of 45-60 mph and 4 miles of stop-start.
Just filled up the Civic for the second time and I managed 34mpg for that tankful, which I'm quite pleased with
However, I have also discovered that the 12v outlet in the front isn't working, which is quite annoying. I've just ordered a Parrot kit for it, so when the guy fits it, I shall get him to investigate the connection or just wire a new one in. I'm thinking about getting a second one wired in at the same time, so I can charge a second device. I don't like the Y cables as they add clutter.
However, I have also discovered that the 12v outlet in the front isn't working, which is quite annoying. I've just ordered a Parrot kit for it, so when the guy fits it, I shall get him to investigate the connection or just wire a new one in. I'm thinking about getting a second one wired in at the same time, so I can charge a second device. I don't like the Y cables as they add clutter.
I also own an FN2.
just recently replaced the pads all round for Brembo items. they are OEM spec and by no means a track pad but there is definitely a bit more bite and they seem more resistant to fade as tested yesterday on an extended drive home from work on one of my favourite back roads.
as for the gaiter its a common fault and i replaced mine with a black alacantara item stitched in red to match the seats.
MPG I'm regularly between 31-33mpg with mixed driving.
for you audio Honda will retro fit an ipod/iphone connection to your stock head unit which is really good and I would highly recommend.
just recently replaced the pads all round for Brembo items. they are OEM spec and by no means a track pad but there is definitely a bit more bite and they seem more resistant to fade as tested yesterday on an extended drive home from work on one of my favourite back roads.
as for the gaiter its a common fault and i replaced mine with a black alacantara item stitched in red to match the seats.
MPG I'm regularly between 31-33mpg with mixed driving.
for you audio Honda will retro fit an ipod/iphone connection to your stock head unit which is really good and I would highly recommend.
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