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Honda Civic Type R (2007-11)

FN2
Type R Production Total: 29,039
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Price New:
In 2007, the Honda Civic Type R was priced at around £17,600. This made it a competitive option in the hot hatch market, offering impressive performance and handling for its price.
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Rivals
In 2007, the Honda Civic Type R faced competition from several other hot hatches. Here are the approximate prices of its primary rivals at that time:

- **Ford Focus ST**: Around £17,995
- **Volkswagen Golf GTI**: Around £20,000
- **Renault Clio 197**: Around £15,995
- **Vauxhall Astra VXR**: Around £18,995
- **Peugeot 207 GTi**: Around £14,995

These prices made the Honda Civic Type R a competitive option in the hot hatch market of the late 2000s.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are approximately 2,300 licensed and 1,200 SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)

Honda Civic Type R (2007-11)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The common faults and quirks that the **Honda Civic Type R FN2** (produced between 2007 and 2011) might exhibit. Enthusiasts know that every car has its idiosyncrasies, and the Type R is no exception. Buckle up—we're about to explore the garage of Type R gremlins!

1. **Third Gear Issue**: Ah, the infamous third gear glitch! Some 2007 Type Rs were plagued by this issue. Essentially, it involved synchromesh problems in the third and fourth gears. But fear not—Honda addressed this under warranty, so if you encounter it, consider it a fixable hiccup¹.

2. **Soft Paint**: The Civic Type R's paint quality has been a topic of discussion since the '90s. Unfortunately, even in the FN2 generation, the paint remained soft and prone to scratches. So, treat your Type R's paint like a delicate flower—no aggressive scrubbing at the car wash, please!

3. **Interior Rattles**: Some owners reported rattles from the interior. It's like the car was trying to play its own percussion section. Check for loose trim pieces or panels during your inspection. Maybe the Type R just wants to join a band?

4. **Driver's Door Handles**: Keep an eye on those door handles—they've been known to break. If you find one hanging by a thread (or a screw), it's time for a replacement. Maybe the Type R just wants to give you a friendly handshake every time you get in?

5. **Alloy Wheels and Kerbing**: The Type R's alloys are like delicate porcelain teacups—beautiful but easily chipped. Watch out for kerb rash; it's the automotive equivalent of stubbing your toe. Ouch!

6. **Plastics Quality**: Some owners grumbled about plastics inside the cabin. Silver-painted fascia panels can lose their lustre faster than a fading pop star's career. So, be gentle with those buttons and switches—they're sensitive souls.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

Between 2007 and 2011, there was **one** generation of the Civic Type R that left its tire marks on the asphalt. Let's dive into the details:

1. **Honda Civic Type R FN2 (2007-2011)**:
- **Engine**: Powered by a spirited 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine.
- **Output**: It churned out 197 bhp (brilliantly fun horses, if you ask me) and 193 Nm of torque.
- **Transmission**: Came with a six-speed manual gearbox, because real enthusiasts love to row their own gears.
- **Performance**: 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a respectable 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 146 mph (235 km/h).
- **Styling**: The FN2 Type R filled out its wheel arches nicely with 18-inch alloys, and those triangular exhaust pipes were like little musical notes for petrolheads.
- **Criticism**: Some purists grumbled that it was more refined and not significantly faster than the previous model, but hey, progress happens, right?

So, if you were lucky enough to own or drive one of these during that era, you were part of a special club—the VTEC symphony orchestra!

And remember, the Type R legacy didn't stop there. It continued to evolve, with each subsequent generation adding its own unique flavour to the mix. If you're curious about the newer models, there's the FK2, FK8, and even the latest FL5. But that's a story for another time!

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Trim Levels
1. **Type R**: The base Type R trim was the entry point into the high-performance world of the Civic Type-R. It came with a host of sporty features, including a tuned suspension, lightweight alloy wheels, and, of course, that iconic high-revving VTEC engine. If you wanted a no-nonsense driving experience, the Type R was your ticket¹.

2. **Type R GT**: Stepping up a notch, the Type R GT added a touch of practicality to the mix. It included features like dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and even front fog lights. So, if you wanted a bit more comfort without sacrificing performance, the GT variant had you covered³.

3. **Championship White Type R**: Ah, the Championship White edition—a nod to Honda's racing heritage. This limited-edition model was all about exclusivity. It featured—you guessed it—a striking Championship White paint job, along with lightweight alloy wheels and red bucket seats. If you managed to snag one of these, consider yourself lucky¹.

4. **Type R Mugen**: Now, if you were truly hardcore, the Type R Mugen was the pinnacle. Developed in collaboration with Mugen, Honda's performance division, this beast was all about pushing the limits. It had an even more aggressive body kit, lightweight components, and a tuned engine. Only a handful were produced, making it a rare gem for collectors¹.

Remember, each trim level had its own unique blend of features, so choosing the right one depended on your priorities—whether you craved raw performance, a bit of luxury, or something in between. And let's not forget that unmistakable Type-R DNA that ran through them all!
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Engines
During this era, the Civic Type R was powered by a **2.0-litre naturally aspirated** four-cylinder engine. Here are the juicy details:

- **Engine Specs**:
- **Displacement**: 2.0 litres (because bigger is better, right?)
- **Configuration**: Double overhead camshaft (DOHC) with 4 valves per cylinder
- **Power Output**: A spirited **198 bhp** (or 201 PS if you're feeling metric) at a rev-happy **7800 rpm**. That's the sweet spot where the VTEC magic happens!
- **Torque**: A respectable **193 N·m** (142 lb·ft) at **5600 rpm**. Torque is what pushes you back into your seat when you floor it.
- **Transmission**: All that power danced its way to the wheels via a **6-speed manual gearbox**. Because real enthusiasts love to shift gears themselves, right?

Now, here's the fun part: when you unleashed the Type R on a twisty road, it felt like the engine was whispering, "Hold my VTEC, watch this!" The short-shifting, precise gearbox made it easy to keep the revs high, and that's where the magic happened.

However, a little secret: the Type R didn't have a turbocharger like some of its rivals. So, while it lacked low-end grunt, it compensated by singing its heart out at higher revs. And boy, did it sing!
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Performance
So, what kind of performance could you expect from this pocket rocket? Let's break it down:

1. **Acceleration**:
- 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h): The Type R could sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in approximately **5.8 to 6.5 seconds** (depending on whether you were in Japan or Europe). That's quicker than a caffeinated squirrel dodging traffic cones!
- 0 to 100 mph (161 km/h): If you needed to merge onto the autobahn or outrun a tardy T-Rex, the Type R would hit 100 mph in around **15.1 to 16 seconds**. Not bad for a hatchback with a penchant for twisty roads

2. **Top Speed**:
- The Type R's top speed was a respectable **141 mph (227 km/h)** or **146 mph (235 km/h)** (again, depending on where you were driving—Japan or Europe). Imagine the wind tousling your hair as you pushed the envelope.

3. **Engine Power and Torque**:
- Beneath that sculpted bonnet lay a **2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine**—a high-revving gem. It churned out **198 bhp** (or **201 PS**, if you prefer metric units) at a spine-tingling **7800 rpm**.
- Torque? Oh, it had a respectable **193 Nm** (142 lb·ft) at **5600 rpm**. Torque is what pushes you back into your seat when you floor it. VTEC, engage!

4. **Transmission**:
- The Type R's power danced its way to the wheels through a **6-speed manual gearbox**. Because real enthusiasts love to shift gears themselves, right?

5. **Handling and Feel**:
- The Type R's suspension was tuned for twisty tarmac. It hugged corners like a koala clinging to a eucalyptus tree.
- Steering feedback? Oh, it whispered secrets from the road directly to your palms. You'd feel every pebble and crack, like Morse code for adrenaline junkies.

6. **Championship White Edition**:
- Ah, the rare Championship White version—a limited-edition treat. It even had a **limited slip differential** for extra cornering prowess. Imagine it winking at you as you attacked a hairpin bend.

Remember, the FN2 Type R wasn't just about numbers; it was about the visceral experience—the way it made your heart race, your grin widen, and your inner racer awaken. So, if you ever find one parked in a garage, give it a nod of appreciation. It's not just a car; it's a symphony of petrol-powered joy!
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Spares
Let's explore some places where you can find those elusive bits and bobs:

1. **Honda Direct Parts**:
- Located at Ashworth Road in Swindon, England, Honda Direct Parts is like a treasure trove for Honda enthusiasts. They specialize in genuine Honda parts, accessories, and even some merchandise. Picture yourself browsing through shelves of neatly labeled boxes, each containing a piece of Type R magic.
- You can order online, and they offer next-day delivery for stock items. So, if you need that elusive third gear synchromesh or a door handle that won't break, Honda Direct Parts might just be your golden ticket².
- **Contact**: Give them a ring at **01793 611672** if you want to chat about Type R secrets.

2. **Cox Motor Parts**:
- Cox Motor Parts is another gem. They've got a dedicated section for the **2007-2011 Honda Civic Type-R FN2**. Genuine parts galore!
- Whether you're after engine components, body parts, or even a set of alloy wheels (because, let's face it, those alloys are like fragile works of art), Cox Motor Parts has your back.
- Their online shop is like a digital garage—no overalls required!

3. **Local Breakers and Enthusiast Forums**:
- Sometimes the best leads come from fellow enthusiasts. Check out local breakers (those scrapyards with hidden treasures) or join Honda-specific forums. You'll find folks swapping stories, advice, and maybe even that elusive Type R badge you've been eyeing.
- Remember, every scratch on a Type R tells a story. So, when you find that replacement part, it's like adding a chapter to your car's adventure novel.
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Specialists
1. **Donnelly Honda Belfast**:
- Located at **69-73 Glenmachan Street, Belfast BT12 6JB**, Donnelly Honda is a proud member of Honda's Dealership Network. They're like the Jedi Council for all things Honda.
- Picture this: rows of gleaming cars, mechanics with spanners in hand, and a friendly team ready to discuss Type R secrets. Whether you need advice, parts, or just want to geek out about your FN2, they've got you covered. Give them a ring at **028 9590 7858** or drop by for a chat.

2. **Local Breakers and Enthusiast Forums**:
- Sometimes the best leads come from fellow enthusiasts. Check out local breakers (those scrapyards with hidden treasures) or join Honda-specific forums. You'll find folks swapping stories, advice, and maybe even that elusive Type R badge you've been eyeing. It's like a secret handshake club for petrolheads.

3. **Online Resources**:
- **UsedCarsNI.com**: This website is like a digital garage where you can find used Honda Civics, including Type Rs, for sale in Northern Ireland. It's a bit like online car shopping, minus the pushy salespeople. You might stumble upon a Type R gem waiting for a new owner.
- **Honest John**: They've got a selection of used Honda Civic Type Rs. Narrow down your search by trim, body style, or age. It's like Tinder for car enthusiasts—swipe right on your dream Type R!
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Racing
The **Honda Civic Type R FN2** from 2007 to 2011 wasn't just a hot hatch for the streets; it also had its fair share of racing aspirations. Buckle up, because we're diving into the racetrack realm!

1. **Type R Trophy - 750 Motor Club**:
- In the UK, the **Type R Trophy** was where the action happened. Picture a bunch of EP3-generation Civic Type-R models—minimal modifications, cost-effective, and fiercely competitive. These cars were like caffeinated squirrels on a mission.
- The rules kept things in check: limited tires per season (no tire wars here!) and sealed engines with power caps to prevent excessive spending. It was all about skill, strategy, and that unmistakable VTEC soundtrack echoing around the track².

2. **Performance on the Road**:
- Now, let's talk about how the FN2 Type R performed on regular tarmac. Where most rivals used turbocharging to hit their performance sweet spot in the mid-rev range, Honda took a different route.
- The Type R retained its **2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine** from the previous generation, with a slight power bump—from 197 to 198 bhp. But here's the twist: you had to drive it like a racing car. Hold each gear until those orange rev-counter lights danced in your peripheral vision. It was like conducting a symphony of speed¹.

3. **Dragstrip Disappointment**:
- Now, if you were hoping for stoplight grands prix victories, the FN2 Type R might not have been your best choice. It didn't dip into the sevens for the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint. But hey, it wasn't about straight-line bragging rights; it was about the corners, the feedback, and the sheer joy of driving³.

4. **Championship White Edition**:
- Remember the Championship White version? It wasn't just about aesthetics. It featured a **limited slip differential**, adding an extra layer of track prowess. Imagine it winking at you as you attacked a hairpin bend.

So, whether it was battling on the track or zipping through your favorite twisty road, the FN2 Type R had racing DNA woven into its very bolts. And every time you pushed that VTEC button, you were part of the legacy—a symphony of adrenaline and tire smoke.

Special Editions
The **Honda Civic Type R FN2** (2007-2011) wasn't just your run-of-the-mill hot hatch; it had a few special editions that cranked up the excitement. Let's dive into these performance-enhanced gems:

1. **Championship White Edition**:
- Back in 2008, Honda treated us to the **Championship White Edition**. It wasn't just about aesthetics (though that Championship White paint job was as crisp as a freshly laundered racing suit). No, this edition came with some serious upgrades:
- **Limited Slip Differential (LSD)**: Yep, they slipped an LSD under there. Not the kind you find at a '90s rave—this one helped you carve corners like a pro.
- **White Wheels**: Because nothing says "I'm here to race" like white wheels. They were like little whirlwinds of speed.
- So, if you spotted one of these on the road, you knew it was more than just a Type R—it was a Championship White Type R, ready to tackle the track or your favorite twisty back road⁴.

2. **Type R Mugen**:
- Now, hold onto your driving gloves for this one. Honda teamed up with Mugen—the wizards of performance tuning—to create the **Type R Mugen**. Only a handful of lucky souls got their hands on these rare beasts.
- What made it special?
- **240 horsepower**: Yep, they cranked it up to 240 horses. Uprated pistons, cams, and an ECU tune did the trick.
- **Body Kit**: The Type R Mugen had a model-specific body kit—like a superhero suit for your car.
- **Suspension Tweaks**: Mugen sprinkled their magic dust on the suspension, making it even sharper.
- Driving a Type R Mugen was like being in a secret club—one where the password was "VTEC or nothing."

3. **Late-Production LSD**:
- If you snagged a Type R built after March 2010, you got a little bonus: an **LSD as standard**. No, not the hallucinogenic kind—the Limited Slip Differential that made cornering feel like a dance move.
- Suddenly, every roundabout became your personal chicane. "Hold my VTEC," you'd say, and off you'd go.

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