The latest Civic Type R has arrived on the scene
Bringing Honda’s famous hot-hatch back up to date. With a somewhat understated new look and a more technology-focused interior, the new Honda Civic Type R looks to build on the huge success of its predecessor.
But it’s not going to be plain sailing for the Type R. In fact, this new go-faster Honda has a variety of rivals - so let’s check out what it’s going up against.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Volkswagen’s latest Golf GTI has made quite the splash, bringing that involvement that this hot hatch is known for alongside greater-than-ever levels of refinement and interior features. A range-topping Clubsport model adds in more sharpness, too, with the GTI’s 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine continuing to offer a great balance of responsiveness and surprising efficiency.
It’s practical and spacious, too, while in classic GTI fashion its looks are relatively understated. As a day-to-day performance car, it’s the one to beat.
Hyundai i30N
Hyundai sideswiped the entire hot hatch segment with its i30N. After all, the South Korean brand had never entered into this kind of territory, but the i30N showed that a lack of heritage couldn’t stop Hyundai from making a truly accomplished car.
Recently revised, the i30N continues to be one of the sharpest and most exciting cars around. It’s definitely one that the Civic Type R will have in its sights.
CUPRA Leon
CUPRA has been making real strides since becoming a standalone brand from SEAT. The Leon has historically been one of the best-known collaborations between CUPRA and SEAT, but the latest generation CUPRA Leon is one of the best yet.
Similar in layout to the Golf GTI, the CUPRA Leon offers excellent practicality alongside solid build quality.
Audi S3
Audi’s ever-popular S3 has been such a hit with buyers due to its rounded abilities. Its quattro all-wheel-drive system means it’s great in all weathers, yet its compact but spacious proportions means that it’s just the right size for all manner of buyers.
The latest generation of Audi S3 feels the sharpest yet, while the build quality adds to Audi’s strong reputation for tip-top interiors.
BMW M135i
BMW shook things up by switching its 1 Series to a front-wheel-drive layout (moving away from its traditional rear-wheel-drive setup) but fans needn’t be worried given how confident and good-to-drive the new M135i is.
It’s more spacious inside than before, too, while some of BMW’s latest equipment ensures that the M135i feels particularly tech-focused..
