jeremy clarkson am sorry to sat mate but on this one ur wrong!the honda civic type R is a beast!! n if youu cnt get on to radio then soo wot! try a cd player...

joe shearns, waterfoot, england

Test drove the Type-R recently.

Power: incredible
Comfort: on par and better than G5 GTI or ST
Looks and styling: sexy and sporty
Interior: Innovative fresh and easy to use

Negatives: Rear spoiler(but I can live with that)
Personal views: Im sold where do I sign up.

Oliver, Johannesburg, South Africa

I drive the 2005 type R and it looks so much better then the new one by far and if u have seen top gear your no what the performace is like. Sooo much faster and better handling all honda has done is go backwords with this new one no dont fill sorry for them just point and lauth lol

Dean, essex,

Just bought one - JC you're comments are pants!!!
Not only is it a stunning looking car, it handles well too. Yes, the back spolier could be better but pound for pound you get more car for your money than a Golf GTi or a Focus ST....
btw I'm a 50 year old female so it's not just for boy racers !!

Linda Rae, Bedlington, UK

PERFORMANCE - i went with my dad to test drive this car and the power is unbelivable when you hit it around 5k onwards! it just throws you into your seat and the engine is alot louder than you think!

RIDE - very comfortable seats, handling is amazing!

Bad bits - spoiler!

Chris , Bridlington,

The fact that Honda is bringing out a whole new Civic in 18 months says it all - the current Civic is a total flop, and god knows what the residuals will be on them in a year's time. Feel sorry for anyone who has one!

Steve, Manhcester,

All i can say is that Honda has lost the plot after the K20a EP3, to be honest i like my old skool civic EG6 and the EF. The best Type R is still the EK9 fair enough its still a 1.6L but what you can get out of it is amazing. personaly i own sir2eg6 and EK4. great performance and a treat to drive.

AL, cov, UK

am undecided what to buy, the focus st 2 or the civic type R although i didn't like the new shape type r i test drove one today and it's nice but i still prefer the old shape i'm totaly stuck with what one to get, CTR new or old shape or focus st 2 2.5T

kris, portsmouth, uk

JC your spot on CTR hopeless i have a 57 plate one and ive had a 55 plate old style. Makes me laugh when people say it's faster than this and that the ctr can't compete with vxr, st, r32 so on so on ive had a drag race with a clio 182 in my type r and i cud not get passed it, need i say anymore.

pete, consett, durham

Jeremey what are you talking about.? I have had my CTR for 3 months and can honesty day it't the best car I have owned to date. Said good bye to a Golf GTI the other day and thoght I would tell the world on hear. Engine, gearbox, and handling are a complete master class well done honda!

Chris, Bristol, United Kingdom

First of all Jeremy Clackson has once again got it all wrong slating the all new Civic Type R. He is a man who spends all day driving Super cars so who is to Judge.
I on the other hand have owned more realistic cars that Mr Working class can afford to buy and let me tell yall the CTR is GREAT!!!!

Alan , Welling, UK

Ordered my new civivc type r GT, due on 20th May 08, cant wait.......got it in nighthawk black with sat nav. Currently driving a landrover discovery so am welcoming the new car with open arms.. The test drive i had did it for me, the ooommmph when the car was opened up after 5k revs felt magical!

steph, leicester, united kingdom

I have now owed the new Type R GT for 6 months, its a great car. You can't compare its looks to anything else out there, it looks out of this world. I drove the old Type R and it was also fun, but it did nt have the wow factor!

OK I must agree that the ride quality is nt that great, but it does have rally suspension and 18" wheels!

I did nt first agree with JC review but he does have some valid points. JC must remember what type of car this is, its not really designed for comfort. Let me ask you what car can you buy for £19k with these looks and extras? A Golf GTI would cost you another £3-4k more, and looks outdated?

Charlie, Cheshunt, Herts

....Oh and further. Why are the owners of the of the old Type R talking about a softer ride and the owners that never had the old one talking about the "harsh" ride on their new ones??? Doesnt make sense, is it soft or hard?
And im bored all the owners of the old one crying that Honda has moved the game on. The old one was good for a track and that was it, yes the new one makes some comprimises, thats why Honda opened up to a whole new market! If you want to look like a rep- get a golf GTi , an estate agent? The Cooper S its is then- The Focus ST? I'd wait and buy one for 5k in three years time.

Leon, Leicester,

I have owned both cars i sold my 2002 ctr 3 months ago.I bought the new ctr gt in may 2007. I drove both cars regulary and can honestly say the new one is much better and faster. They are both great in there own ways the old one was leathal the new one is much more tamed and driver friendly.(the old one would throw you out of you seat going fast over bumps). i paid 24k for the new one with all the extras i am very happy with it and dont care what jc said. He didnt give the car a chance at the start he didint switch the vsa off and drove the thing off the track. Completly contradictry to what the stig said in march 2007 top gear mag. I love my car and wont change it for anyone. It looks great in milano red.

naz, BLACKBURN, uk

I Hate the new type R I own a 54 plate type R and work for honda and drive the new one daily and hate everything about it although the interior in the new one is slightly more interesting it does not perform as well as the old one in my opinion,

But that is not a reflection an honda`s skills to build a great car the v-tec is one of the best engines in a car today and its truely amazing what power they can squeeze out of a 2.0ltr engine

matthew, Southampton, hampshire

Right..Let's step out of cloud cookoo land for a little while and come back to the real world! Jez is just a man with an opinion .kudos to him that he has job and the money to drive/own exotic cars....BUT the real man on the street will never have that, so we care about what we spend our hard earn't cash on...£5000 extra for a Golf, extra running costs of the ST both of which have issues! VW don't warrent the fly wheel and if your cluch goes and damages it say goodbye to £1500+ nice eh??. ST 1.5tonnes, 2.5 turbo just to pull it along...hmmm get the picture?? So the Civic Type R isn't as quick as the old one??? 6.6 0-62 still isnt bad in real terms and besides I don't plan on taking mine to Santa Pod! stiff ride?? Type R...enough said. Yes the rear view is poor but it does come will door mirrors and parking sensors if your so worried! Jez you oppinions are welcome but lets remember the GT40 or should we forget what a wonderful car that was?? for 21K I can live with the small problems:)

Ian, Nothampton, UK

If it under-steered that badly, how come it was faster around the TG test track than a Golf GTI? It looked well planted when the Stig dove it.

John, Helston,

Well I can't say I've owned a type R because what I have is a Stateside SI, thats cuz I live in NY. Mystery over.The only one thing i wanted to contribute is that , it's not just what JC has said about the new R, it's also what i have seen on Top Gear. The thing under steered so bad that i don't think it had any tires left after the 7.5 minute test.
Second, anyone who remembers the CRX first gen, will remember that too had rear torsion beams. That car weighed about 1800 lbs on a rainy day, to torsion beans in the FRONT cut the mustard then, but not now.
I agree with JC on this point, Honda has taken a step backwards, and really hope that they clear this mess up and put a proper multilink rear in before CTR owners can no longer hold their head up.
Me? I'm putting a fresh CTR engine my left hander, with a bunch of Toda/ Ohlins goodies because frankly since we don't get a CTR in the U.S. anyway I don't feel like I am missing a thing.

Rob Lucchetti, Farmingdale, U.S. / New York

iv had bothe the new type r and the old 1. i started with a 2003 type r and it was a big hit, then went the new 1 was relised i went to test it, i liked wat it was so i got 1. but then after many tests in my new type r i found i was board, the ride was for an older man it had lost its fun, it bwas slower and did not handle at all, after all that i sold it and picked up a 2004 type r back to the old school, so any 1 who says the new 1 is better you dont no any thing about cars and should give up
, the tpye r is by far the best hot hach u can buy thanx ,,,,,,,,,

m4ff boi, cardiff,

I have had 4 Type R's.. 3 civics and the Integra. I agree with some of the things Mr Clarkson said about the new civic. I have had mine for 10 months now and would have to say it is not a good drive as the earlier civic. It doesnt handle corners very well and is definatley slower. Who decided to put a torsion beam suspension on the new civic should be shot. I again agree with Clarkson on things like the seat adjustmets, view from rear window etc, but I would still have this new car to the older one any day. It is still a good car to drive and its looks both inside and outside are a huge improvement. Maybe Honda will update this version in a year or two with an improved model like the last one. I will be changing my tyres soon and getting rid of the horrid bridgestones, maybe then the drive will improve and I'll see a different drive from this wonderful car.

Metamorph, Paisley, Scotland

I really wanted to comment on the previous two log's on this forum. Firstly, Justin from Belfast, why on earth did you got out and buy the old Type R when a newer model has just come out (you obviosuly listened to JC)? How can you possibly judge the new Type R when you haven't owned either of them? Sounds like you couldn't afford it to me! As I have owned BOTH models, I can absolutley gaurantee that this car handles better than the old! Is much more refined, more spacious and a definate upgrade & sounds 10 times better when that iVTECH kicks in! I owned the previous model for two years and was starting to get fed up on journeys any longer than about 30 miles, this car is much much better, may be a little more refined, but then again, Im not a chav! I want a car for driving with a LOT of poke when I need it! As for Daniel from Liverpool. Go and get an Evo, stop talking and do! What do you drive now? Who gives a crap about fuel consumption, and your buying a Evo.............Prat!

Mark , London,

After seein Clarkson on TG with both Type Rs i went out and bought the old version, nt a big fan of the new look preferred the older one anyway, and how can anyone say the new handles kjust as good as the old one it obviously doesnt, and cant since the suspension is no where near as good as the older car. Also the older car is bound to be faster as the car is lighter and the 1 hp in the car is gonna do bugger all. Its a fact the older is car is more raw than the new one its a real drivers car the new one is just packet full of technology wich yes maybe good to have but its not like you couldnt live without it. Id choose more power over technology any day!!

Justin, Belfast, Ulster

Seriously people think think the new type r is any good? hmm...handles less well than a focus, is slower than almost every other hot hatch out there and the one I had on a 48 hour test drive broke down. Twice. The second time it happened with the salesman in the car. "that shouldnt happen.." he said. No it didnt happen with the astra vxr or the golf or the focus. The new type r is a wet towel compared to the the jap version. Im not a fan of the vauxhall brand but if you are buying a hot hatch then who cares as long as it excites you? The golf is too dull tho competent, the astra is very impressive, the focus great fun but mpg is appalling. So im not going to buy any of them and get a proper fast car and wait for the new evo. Then i shall leave all you ponces in your shopping trolleys way behind at the lights.

Daniel Spiersont, liverpool,

I saw Clarkson's review on Top Gear. I was in undecided as to whether I go for a Type R, a Cooper S or a Golf GTI, but after watching Top Gear my mind was made up - its definately the Type R. Any car that Clarkson slags off so comprehensively and in such an objective way must be brilliant and will sell like hot cakes! Just look at the Audi TT. The fact that it was apparently slower than the old Type R around the track only shows that Clarkson is a crap driver - this is the person who was shown up by a woman driver in a transit van around the Nurnberg Ring for heaven's sake. And what did that race around the track actually show? Here was a man who had already made his mind up about the car, "trying" to keep up with the old car driven by an experienced and probably much better driver (the Stig?) than Clarkson. A conflict of interests if ever there was one. Clarkson in his prefered old Type R and the other driver in the new would have been a more definitive test.

kevin wilkie, Hartlepool, Cleveland

I though I would put another quick post in to let you all know that I have just icked up my new Type R GT in Milano Red and I can tell you, it is a MUCH better car than it's predicessor. The car is more refined, better styled and has a much nicer cockpit, with more extras. Most importantly of al it handles VERY well indeed, which is really a trademark of the TYPE R range. As a Honda customer, I can confirm that they have really listened to what is important, this car has certainly hit the mark. Just like the old Civic Type R, you can push the car to it's limit around corners and hold good levels of power, except in the new ersion you have an extra 400 revs to keep on going (and also pushes past the older model)! And as for Jeremys comments about this car compared to the Golf, get off it! The demographics are totally different! I'm not 50+ years of age with horrible dress sense and a cluster of grey straw across my brow. I'm young, red blooded and like the bucket seats and great ride!

Maxwell Nicklin, London,

i changed my old type r for the new one and at first i thought it was brilliant but having driven it for 3 weeks now i honestly belive it is slower than the old one and where the old type r could sit at 90 around a corner with little body role the new one is all over the place and need constant re ajustment which i think is down to the new rear suspention. i am hoping they introduce a new face lift model later down the line with the same power as the jap vesion 220bhp and inderpendant rear susspention like the old CTR. on the plus side the spoiler at the back helps reduce the glare from car lights.

Peter Jones, brighton, england

JC, what is going on? I test drove this car only 2 weeks before and found the ride and handling no more uncomfortable than my Toyota Celica. I went to the dealership (who were rather unhappy with your comments) and they proceeded to pull out a March 2007 edition of Top Gear Magazine where it says on the front "THis is what the Stig would choose". Inside it shows that you have rated the Civic Type R GT as No.1????

Not sure what side of the bed you got out of on that morning but to completely slate the Type R without barely any praise for what a good car this is has dissappointed me completely and I have decided to ignore your comments and go by all the reviews and magazines that say it's a great car and purchase one.

I look forward to getting it in 1 week.

Mark Cooper, Watford, Hertfordshire

I usually enjoy what Jez has to say and was looking forward to watching the Type R test was I dissapointed by his remarks he must have been realy pissed off by Honda wouldn't they let you have one for free? The camera man worked hard to get that wing in just the right position to block the view as neither my wife nor I (she is 5 foot 7 and I am 6 foot 2) have no problems in seeing whats behind ( whats to look at you are leaving them in your wake!) What does JC see out of the rear of his Lambo, old GT40 or his old Cosworth Escort ? Seat postioning is no problem, if you have to lie about, sorry exagerate the range of movment to try and make a point you do yourself no favours. We tried a Focus ST and was mightily impressed but in the real world when you pay your own fuel bills then the type r's average comsumption in the last 3 months we have owned it at 33 mpg makes big sense.
Yes the ride is hard and I have not driven the old R but every other tester says the new one is better. Paul

paul watts, North Walsham, Norfolk

the top gear review of the civic type r was so far off from what every other review said about it,if you search around you'll find that the new one is spot on and much better than the old,ive test drove this car and was massively impressed,which is why ive ordered mine.As regards the comments about the corsa vxr,you might possible get sat nav,possible a more comfortable ride and all for less money,but then again you driving a VAUXHALL!!!!!. not much credibility in that,and if the astra vxr interior is any thing to go by,then this wont be up to scratch either,some thing you cant say about the typer interior or its build quality....Oh and i dont imagine ill be having many problems with reliability,seeing as after all its a HONDA~!!!!!!!

jamie mcgill, reading, england

JC shot himself in the foot on topgear in comparing the Civic type R to the golf GTI at the begining of his test by saying the Golf was £5,000 more for the same spec, he then went on to say the type R was slow and heavy and due to a cheap rear suspension set up handled badly, then what happened? when a real driver(stig) got in, it went round the track faster than a Golf GTI!. So if you want a fast good handling car that saves you £5K will never breakdown, looks and sounds fabulous get round to your Honda dealer, unless you prefer an overpriced, overweight dowdy golf and an empty bank account.

Richard Fell, Wakefield, W Yorks

type r is the closeset thing to starwars & startrek ! Ford focus st is a focus on a high protien diet, vw golf is for someone who doesnt have style. just hugo boss will do him and a VW. honda civic type r is i believe the best car for 2007 & 2008 and im only a few thousand pound short ill have enough money by january to pick my one up. i hope they will release it in WHITE.

Nemisis, london,

Jezza as usual is right on the money this pitiful offering from Honda is not ft to sit in the same class as the simply awesome Corsa Vxr for the same money you get a better ride more positive handling Sat Nav all for less money than honda's offering. A friend of mine purchased the type R 6 months ago and raved about it till he drove my new corsa Vxr last week. to say he was crying in his soup is an understatement

Peter Kitching, Windsor, England

Read and watched jaw slightly dropped the review and the top gear review yesterday...jaw dropped 1. coz when I test drove the type r it was fantastic and 2. because an I know it's a sign of age, but Jezza you're repeating yourself... Go on be a devil dream up something original to say. Your top gear review was virtually word for word the same as this.... Any how I've bought one...and I hope you're wrong, my mistake will cost me £18 if it is one that is !!!! As for the fool who even mentioned a ford in the same breath as the type R...ask yourself if your car will still be running in 5 years time.... I thnk not.

Paul, Basingstoke,

JC, even though - sometimes the noise that comes out of your trap, the ink from your pen is accurate - I find your comments about the new Civic TR ridiculous and a true sign of your age! Just look at the car, the drive, the interior and the performace of that naturally aspirated, high revving i-VTEC engine that just leaves all the other cars in it's class in the showroom. I am very surprised that someone who works for Topgear would get this so wrong, considering that your own publication rated the best hot hatch ever! Along with the STIG rating it as a pure racer! If you had read up on the Honda history you would know that the R stands for racing, and yes that is why we youthful members love this car! Golf GTI - middle age mans hatch!

Maxwell Nicklin, London,

Well I wouldn't buy either the type R or the GTI. If you want fun, performance and value for money then it has to be the Focus ST. For the pleb at the top of this blog, it is faster than the type R learn to read and better still drive. The type R is basically a girls car. JC is often wrong but he is right in this case.

Pete, Leigh-On-Sea, England

JC, You have definitely lost the plot.
The New Type R is simply awesome, I just ordered mine, can't wait. I drove the Golf GTi - but why have a turbo when you can have the free reving i-vtec.

It's superb- handles great, stunning looking - the drives a bit hard, but it's a hot hatch, not a Bentley, I mean how soft do you want it. The Lambo has a hard ride too - The murcelago does, not too sure about the Gallardo, I think they were cost cutting there too. :)

Jeremy, get your facts right.

Josh, London, England

i ave just bought the new type r and its bloody awesome,im a thirty five year old man with two kids and the excitment is ripping out me everytime i turn the engine on ,its fun to drive and leaves most other hot hatches standing,as for the new golf gti u so much rave abot i blew one away at the traffic lights the other day,this is a fun car and the closest car to a motor bike..long live jezza.

del, GLASGOW,

I use to sell Honda cars during the mid to late 90's. For the time, a Civic VTi 1.6ltr on '96 plate had much promise for the enthusiast. It was fun to drive, always came back to the show room with a smile on my face from a demonstration. Never sold one tho. The CRX VTi was absolutly awsome to drive, unique looks for its time, still a cassic today. An Integra TR silenced many critics who would all remember how stiff that ride was, respected by bikers with their knowing nod at you as the cams lifted and see ya. Sold a few, one to an elderly gent (well, very old actualy, about JCs age). He stuffed it leaving the show room joining the main road. Anyhoo, where i'm going with all this is that the new Civic TR really is an awsome bit of kit, don't get me wrong I tink it's better value for money than ever before, amazing looks and so on but......Honda have missed a trick with this, lost the fun maybe. A bit like walking,like! JC's point is valid apart from proving what other cars are better!

Wolman, Reading, Berkshire

I own an 07 plate type r and i tell you now . i love it but i am a twenty three year old male! So Jeremy my dear, grunt, shrug and i look forward to next weeks rant at all the things you hate in next saturdays Sun. Still think your a legend,

Dave T, Notts,

A Ford out perform at Honda - in your dreams pal! Looks like someone's a little jealous of being smoked by a Civic in the past huh? What's the matter, did we loose a 1/4 mile or something?

J. Weighton, Oakdale,

CJ you talk rubish!!!. for saying that the Type-r is less fun than walking.

hennie gerber, JHB, SA

JC your losing the plot,You cannot get a better hot hatch for your money,ask the Stig even he voted it as the best hot hatch around.You can buy the gt version now with sat nav and hft for £19k and in 3 years time still be worth 68% of what you paid for.Not many cars can boast that.
They should rename the Type R and call it Type Christine,after Stephen Kings horror film"Christine"you cannot help but fall in love with the car it demands to be driven,especialy when the vtec cuts in and that surge gives you an adreneline rush.WOW

darren westwood, st helens, merseyside

I like JC!. Most of the time he has valid points.....this however is complete nonsence!
1) You buy the GT for an extra grand which ups the spec significantly 2) you buy the satnav (includes bluetooth) for £1400, I must mention the golf doesnt have satnav either and oh, it's £500 more than Hondas and no bluetooth!!! 3) The rivals are turbo charged and sound pants, the r exhaust note sounds thrilling even M3 CSL like at the top end!!.4) The spolier does obstruct the rear view but the golf has tartan seats!, nasty black plastic and is bought by "Derek or Jemima"!!. 5) The gearbox is better than any car up to £30K and it handles superbly 6) it won't break (like a ford GT)no matter how you drive it. 7) The looks - Granny won't want one anymore 8) It's more practical than the golf 9) Your friends will be jealous 10) The best one..... the tame racing driver thinks it's the best hatch of the lot!!! Jezza, you been working with May too long if you think it's rubbish! I'm disappointed

Harry Crumb, Manchester, UK

To address JC's issue of earwig on top lip. What is he on about? I think he needs to look at the rivals before he runs down the CTR. A Focus ST belongs on a council estate, and its becoming very common, and a Golf GTI is purely for those on an image trip, and can waste money on a badge. The CTR is aimed towards customers who want a performance drivers car with a difference, that VTEC unit for a start! The CTR has very similar performance as the rivals but with no artifical power (i.e. turbo). This is Honda at its absolute best. JC is entertaining to watch but he speaks total rubbish sometimes. To fit in with him you need to drive a Ferrari.

Paul, Worcester,

I don't know about this new hatch, but I bought a Honda Civic, 2.0 liter Vtec in Thailand 6 months ago. $ door and the only real complaint I have is that it fails to deliver at high speed when overtaking.
Other than that it has to be the best car I have owned, and I've had a few in the last 40 years.
Also, in Thailand, most imported cars such as the Golf etc are 30-40% more in price, so out of my reach. A basic Merc is double, so I guess the idea of a driveway full of these cars strikes me as largesse, and not really normal, like most of your readers.

Robin, Pattaya, Thailand

After owning a 02 tyr a 05type30 and the new 07 model over thye past 5years i have come to the conclusion clarkson as lost it .He should come back to the place were he started his writing life (rotherham) and drive one about every day were he would find the comfort is better the interior/equipment is better the styling is better which added together makes my life better.And how can he moan about the rear window he should be looking forward plus any one who can dribble over a large american barge (GT40)with the reliabilaty and economy of my fathers old transit pickup shud'nt throw stones in glass houses.From an earwig that once listend to the rants of this obviously crazey old man.

stephen matthews, rotherham, england

Jeremy I'm a big fan of yours, but I have driven and ordered the new Type R just a week ago. I didn't find the ride hard at all (I was expecting too after reading reviews), and i'm far from a kid or "Earwig" as you put it. I think you are missing some other factors in this, The price!! I couldn't afford the extra £2000 for the GTI which might I add has a a lot less extra kit for the money compared to the GT model which I ordered. The styling is in a league of it's own while the Golf looks "bland" in comparison, and although the power may be down on the Old Type R I dont think it's enough to hinder everyday life. And the fact they can extract so much power from a N/A 2.0Ltr engine is incredible...
At the end of the day some of us aren't so fortunate to have a driveway stocked with Aston Martins, Lambo's and Merc's, some of us have to accept what we can afford, and I for one belive the Type R still ticks lots of positive boxes.

Shaun Barrell, Hereford, HFDS

Jeremy was always jealous of the japs!
This is the best Type-R to date. Looks and Performance!

I never did like his one-sided reviews, which is a shame..

Andrew Cohen, London,

I have to say, I'd love to hear what Jeremy would think about my SRT-4.
Well, I guess I can imagine. "It looks decent. It drives well. It has 250 bhp. It stops well."
There's always a but. "But, it's a neon."

Faster than a WRX (but not an sti) (in the dry).

Jonathan Watmough, Houston, Texas, USA

Jeremy Clarkson's review on 2007 Civic Type R has lowered his level of professionalism as an Auto Commentator.
In fact, it makes readers feeling that he might has been paid by other Honda's rivals to mark down Honda's product as the review content is almost insane.
A layman will not believe his extremed comments on the 2007 Civic Type R (UK Spec.). On the contrary, it catches the general attention on this model, and wanting to find out whether it is so as reviewed by J.Clarkson.
At the end of the day, it is surely otherwise.
(From a mature reader that owns a Nissan Z350)

KG, Singapore,

I ve had all model Civic Type Rs to date and the FN2 is definitely the most rewarding in terms of all round practicality, fun factor, economy, and value for money. I personally love the Top Gear crew but do not take all their reports as the gospel truth. I think that Jeremy has been accustomed to driving cars that most of us will never even get to see, let alone own. Maybe he s getting old and should clear his drive to be able to get the white Aston Martin on the road, if he wants me taking some cars off his drive to make some space for the six figure cars he d like to be seen in, the Civic Type R is the first one I ll be driving home. Well done Honda for giving us the FN2.

Kenneth Galea, Exeter, United Kingdom

Jeremy Clarkson has lost touch with the real world. Their is an underlying agenda, I sense, to his objectivity when it comes to Honda. I have driven the Type R, and own the 5 door 1.8 Civic.

This is Honda's best hatch to date, and I think Honda should be given credit for getting 148 kW from a normally aspirated 2 litre engine, which is what Type R's aspire to, ie. no turbo.
This is a "PROPERLY" good car and I intend to upgrade.

Jeremey, I am a fond viewer of Top Gear, but I honestly think you are spoilt for choice, driving cars 99% of the population will never drive, and have got this one PROPERLY wrong.

Mark, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

HELP ! type R was on my list for my new car but I really don't like the engine but compaid to 20 grand for a golf gti it still looks good value. can't decide at all !!!! narrowed it down to the type R, leon FR , and focus ST which drinks like a fish ! leon FR looks favourite after reading all these comments. Basically its a golf GTI that looks better but 4 grand cheaper. I'd love to hear peoples views on what I should get ?

Carl , manchester,

I've done another 2000 miles in my new CTR since my last comments and still loving it. Also I'm sure it feels faster than the old Type R that I owned for 2 years.
Thank God I didn't buy a GTI or ST!

Jon, Taunton,

I have just test drove the civic type r and was excited at the concept as at the moment i drive a rover ti which in parts is honda based so i wanted to see how far they had come without rover and forging ahead with the latest in a series of type r's.
got in raring to go and excited and adjusted the mirrors which moved electrically but more like a snail being egged on by some drunken teenagers. but once i got that bit out of the way went to adjust the rear view mirror and found someone had replaced the rear window with 2 letter boxes. so anyway onwards i went now was for what i thought was the fun bit driving it. i put my foot down awith great expectation waiting for the v-tec to kick in yet i dont think it ever did. I was absolutly terribly disappointed i couldnt even keep up with a jag the 2 pieces of airplanes put togther as they are. all in all the seats were really comfy and held you in place the dash was very spaceship like but fun and sporty the ride boring and clunky.

gary crowley, rochdale, lancs

I'm one of the converted. I loved my BMW's. I've had a new E46 M3, 330ci and a Z4 3.0si. I was bored, honest. I took a brave step, i stopped for one moment and thought are BMW's really the only car to have. Can I live without one, but the Ego inside me said "no you must have a BMW what will everyone think of you". I said "shut up" and went for a test drive in a Civic Type R GT. I've never smiled or had so much fun. On a ratio for every pound per fun the Civic wins by a mile, its less than half the price I paid for any of my BMW's and the entertainment is double. BMW's depreciate like a Ford's and their reliability is even worse. Honda's have rock solid and reliable. They have done a great job with the Type R. Even if you don't agree, please if nothing else try any car but a BMW. Go on break the habit.

Mark Robinson, Berkhamsted, England

Well done to J.C for his honest review of thie new type r.
What happened to the extra power? better ride quality? better engineering? all this went away in favour of Marketing! like what happened to the orginal GTI.

Honda should have employed the services of Ford to sort out their suspension problems. allong with Vauxhall to sort out their power problems.

WHY IS THE CAR STILL UNDER 200BHP?

It can't compete with any hot hatch out on the market at present, 0-62mph and 0-100mph isn't realistic figures to compare with other cars as in gear times are much more important and compared to its rivals they are very poor!

JC has commented correctly and Honda should listen to what people want . TYPE R was known for racing but now its for Reducing!

Regards
Rik

rik, beds, uk

"Oh and you soon get used to the mirror!!"

To be fair, with a hair do like that, I'm not sure Jeremy uses one too often.

Roy Munson, Bedford,

Clarkson your getting old, you can't fugure out an M5, you can't work the radio in a Type R and you think the suspension is too rough. Its a Hot Hatch, what do you expect. In GT spec equipment is equal or better that all rivals. I did 30k miles in a GOLF GTI and swapped for CTR this year, which I'll do a similar milage. While the GOLF is marginally better on the Motorway the Civic is far far more rewarding on the right road when your in the right mood. The engine and gearbox are a work of mechanical excellence, throttle response is far crisper and quicker than the rivals and you dont have to wait for the turbo to come in, then to runout of breath just when the Civic is coming on cam. For the 'driver' the Civic is the best. For the average driver the GOLF GTI is best. With the 19" rage wheels the looks are stunning, its stands out far more than all the other Euroboxes, who elsed will warrenty and engine that rev to nearly 9000rpm for 90.000miles. Oh and you soon get used to the mirror!!

sam, lincs, lincs

I did have to chuckle at this review by Jeremy. Usually he makes me laugh. However, this time I found myself laughing at him and reminded me never to actually listen to his opinion of any car. Perhaps the firm ride quality agitated your ample paunch, Jeremy?

Roy Munson, Bedford,

Im in my 40s and owned the outgoing CTR from new for 2 years after my wife decided i would be better of changing my 5 bedroom house for a 2 bed terrace with a huge morgage becuase the postcose was better...

I paid £15,500 with air con for it, for the money it was a total bargin and alot of fun.

I drove the new car and hated it, its fat, bloated, very slow to 100 compared to the old car and worst of all very exspensive.

Speced up it cost the same as a demo Golf GTi i purchased.

The main problem is this, the UK does not get the real CTR, the real CTR is 4 door, has 20bhp more, is much lighter, a LSD and alot of other changes. I have even read the UK CTR is based on a jazz???

Worst of all i test drove the real CTR at a famous importers begining with L and oh my its in a different league why did i buy a golf.

Im a sheep BAAAAAAA

Dave Hedgehog, london,

i live and work in qatar in the middle east and also visit the UK (my homeland) often < when ever in the uk somebody in so called authority tries to fine me for smoking or take my picture for speeding i mearly smile show them my qatari driving licence and ID and wish them good luck in trying to collect, both these documents/ID are in arabic and both are perfectly legal in the UK the loks on the relevant officials faces are a picture to be savoured

tom lovelock, doha, qatar

this has nothing to do with cars!
i have just watched a repeat on bbc2 about your wifes dad winning the vc.
i am an ex soldier and have never before been so moved by a doc.like yours
i just wanted to say OUTSTANDING.
yours .skelly

richard Skelton, penrith, cumbria

this aint a comment but why have u left top gear i thourght u was the best on there

Kieran Raybould, Matlock, Derbyshire

l think you got to used to expensive cars , with engines big as wheel barrows,

e johnson, worcester, uk

Dear Mr Clarkson - or "Hi, Jez",
As a long time admirer of Honda engineering (6 past cars, now) I was saddened by the low "star rating" awarded to the new Civic Type R. No, I haven't had a go, but gave its predessor a good thrash.
Not as young (!) as you, I appreciate that cars have to be aimed at particular audiences, and stiff suspension apparently appeals to the younger, "sportier" driver. Honda have never been able to claim the best in that department, anyway, with sharp handling needing some lack of comfort even in their "cooking ranges.
Clever bushing and damper design belong to other makers who don't, in general provide similar overall engineering standards. No, there are no bricks, but a lack of sophistication.
For these "youngsters", nearly 200bhp should surely be enough, with the high revs necessary being part of the fun, and better than any turbo, for them.

Your "comedy auto programme" still entertains,

Keep it up - All the best to you & the others,

Brian Newsome, East Leake, UK

I'd like to remind Jeremy that he swooned over the new Beetle on Top Gear a few years ago - 'I want one, swoon, swoon ... '! Oh deary me? He couldn't have meant it of course, but he did say it! JC has lost the plot over the Type-R, he has such a vast choice of expensive drooly motors at his disposal these days that even finely engineered and crafted engines no longer float his boat. He should be pleased that the CTR's wing obscures the view, in that case it should also mask his bald spot a treat from behind!

jakx, Bedfordshire, UK

Jeremy, please test my 175cv modded 1991 CRX Coupe' VTEC.
Single seater, no interiors, and a REAL stiff ride. Just for fun. The civic type-r is SO COMFORTABLE in comparison...

PAOLO, bergamo, italy

Why, oh why, are we buggering about with reviews on modern tat ?

£18k for a hunk of plastic ?

Right, well since it's possible to pick a nice example of an S3 Lotus Esprit for around 6k.. I'm sorry, but I just don't see why anybody would blow such a huge wad of the few reddies to escape the tax man on something utterly soulless, and mind numbingly devoid of beauty..

Only one reason anybody would blow a chunk that size on a car - same reason BMW's are still selling "I want a new reg plate, so my neighbours think I'm loaded!" What tits..

No, I'm 25, not 50.. I was just raised properly ;)

Chris Morley, Derby,

If you don't trust Jeremy, how about trusting the guys at evo magazine?
They pretty much hated the new Civic, too, preferring the Golf GTI and Megane R26 over the screaming Honda.

Matti, Espoo, Finland

A hot hatch needs to excite you. Otherwise there is no point to it. Yes excitement - something the turbo hot hatches don't deliver. I wonder how fast the 'R would be with a turbo bolted on? Honda do the hard thing and make a 2L N/A engine smooth and responsive. All the others stick a big turbo on a poorly tuned block. Why? Because they can't make an engine like Honda can. I mean, Ford really... 2.5 litres V5 with a Turbo and you're still slower than the Honda Civic R :) Oh, BTW the new CTR is NOT slower than the old one. There are head-to-head videos of the new car against the old one. And the new one is quicker! Jeremy is right about the rear spoiler messing up rear visability though!

Zander Mclure, Peterborough, England

Hmmmmm, now I am confused!!! Top Gear mag says best hot hatch, Jeremy says it's *hit. As above I wonder how someone used to driving high performance cars can give a balanced view of any mainstream cars?

Mick Mills, Oldham, Manchester

Normally I would hold Jeremy's opinion in quite high regard, but dissing this car just shows that he is obviously going senile in his old age.

You have really messed up here Jeremy, hope the money you must have received from Volkswagen was enough to help you sleep at night

Rick D, Troy,

"It is nowhere near as good as a Golf GTI because, to be honest, it’s nowhere near as good as walking. "
Wouldn't that make the type-R Honda's most environmentally friendly car then?

Kevyn Miller, Christchurch, New Zealand

i bought my 2007 Honda Civic Type R two months ago, partly on the back of an article in the Top Gear magazine.which was very complimentary and voted it the best hot hatch out of the 4 tested. Now we have ''Top Gear' Jeremey coming along and slating the same car. Can it be that the front man of top gear is at odds with his own experts?
Thank goodness that I didn't see Jeremey's article first because the Type R is brilliant. ( I traded in my Honda S 2000 ( one of Jeremey's favourites ) for the type R and have not regretted my decision for a moment.. It's great fun to drive and even on long journies it's quiet and surprisingly comfotable.( Perhaps Jeremey's bones are getting too used to the $40,000 plus cars that he usally drives )

Richard Scott, Grantham, Lincolnshire

Clarky my son your bang on. I ve test drove the Type R twice and was not impressed, the rear view, well you might as well paint it in blackboard paint, because you just dont get a rear view. The seating is very sexy but you dont get comfort and you defo dont get cusioned as you go round tight bends. The syling is retro and just doesnt fit in with the new generation of cars. Cost wise its a bit expensive for a non turbo hot (cold) hatch, the engine sounds as though its out of a Vauxhall Vectra with a stick on big bore exhaust. I think I will stick to my Ren 225 (superchiped) 0-62 5.3 secs. Bearing in mind the superchip has given me an extra 38BHP. and its got all the mods and cons.

Ramesh , Birmingham,

Clarkson, Cobbles ride perhaps but mostly your comments, in a world that is ever so similar in every way the New Type R is a breath of fresh air in styling terms, as May rips you for power, power, power in you examination of most vehicles the ctr is a great blend of performance and handling, which will be driven by the average jo with no advanced driving experiance. It is a superb package, why do you need 260 bhp on the road? If you want a softer ride then go for the 2.2 EX 5dr @ £18500, which is almost as powerful, cheaper than the R and you get Sat Nav. You clearly are thinking of the wrong car, get out the R and into an EX, seems that you are showing your age. Stig loves it, to quote "most useable day to day hot hatch", then you hate it, lol you are funny. Motormouth strikes again!

Andy, Leigh on Sea, Essex

It's only a car, for goodness sake. It's a steel box with a wheel at each corner and a nineteenth-century petrol-and-air explosion engine. Like all cars it has a vulgar shape, a nasty colour and a choking smell. It has all sorts of supposedly whizzy features but it'll just end up as Traffic like 20 million other cars. Find something else to prove that you're different from other people.

Frank Upton, Solihull,

Oh Jeremy, you must have you stopped visiting your Chiropracter? This all reminds me of when I ‘improved’ the handling of my Mk1 Mexico with Bilsteins. Sure it went round corners, but when I went down cobbled streets, it was an absorber too far! Honda was never brill at ride comfort, till they met Rover. This may be to hard core for your spine, but the punters love'em! Me, I have to drive an auto because of my back problems, so remember Mr Clarkson, it’s your back you’re playing with when you use the clutch. Come on Honda bring out an auto diesel, soon please, I want to replace my Accord (which has Recaros retro fitted)!

Ben Cowell, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucs

I hired a Civic back in October 2006. Can't remember the model, but I do remember that it is by far the worst car I have ever driven. That even trumps the Volvo 340 series I had as a student.

The rediculous pillars beside the windscreen mean that blinkered horses have greater peripheral vision. On the first day, I almost wiped out a motor-cyclist.

The rear view was non-existent, which helped me to reverse into a parked car at 2 mph.

The undersized steering wheel prevented the finding of a comfortable driving position on a 5-hour drive to Devon. The result was two frozen shoulders the following morning. The fluro-blue dashboard an ensured I had stinking headache by the time arrived.

Stalling in traffic was a frequent occurrance, resulting in continual use of the push-button ignition - the car's only redeeming feature.

The Lentil mob are joking if they want people to drive cars like these. Give me my Land Cruiser any day!

Kristinn Mason, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Jeremy
I test drove the Golf GTI and the Focus ST before deciding on buying the Type-R. The Golf was, well, a Golf, competent but dull as ditchwater, whilst the Focus was much more like it with a characterful engine and great handling. The Type-R may have put on a bit of weight but the Focus weighs 1.5 tonnes! It's also becoming a very common sight on our roads. Maybe your substantial bulk adversely affected the power to weight ratio Jeremy !
Sure, the Type-R may be a few tenths of a second slower than the other 2, but it provides a lot more involvement and enjoyment for this particular driver. The engine is an absolute gem and really feels like a racing motor, especially when run on Shell V-Power - it raises the hairs on my neck every time it hits VTEC mode and screams to the redline.

Jon, Taunton,

Jeremy hates it.

That means it's cool!

Frans Grijzenhout, Zandvoort, NL

The view out the back is not as bad as some people say. It's blown out of proportions. You get used to is, and be honest, do you really care who's behind you in a CTR ?

Radio ? What's that ? MP3 and iPod are the future Jeremy.
Satnav ? Waste of money. Did you need directions 20 years ago ? The human race is showing more signs of weakness with the whole Satnav virus.

Ride quality ? Yes it's rough sometimes. But it's also rock solid in the corners. And no, you don't end up waisted after a longer drive. For this kind of car, it's better then I expected. If your butt hurts to much, just get a french car instead.

Richard, The Hague, The Netherlands

Ok, so you think that ..... but what does James May think? His views are far more realistic.............

Em, Ramsgate, UK

I just specced up a Golf GTI with the same options as my Civic Type-R GT (sat nav, climate control, racing seats etc etc), and it cost nearly £5000 more. Bang for your buck, you get much more with the Honda.

Stuart Moore, Maidenhead, UK

Why are people complaining about the equipment levels in the CTR? If bought in GT-spec then it's got climate control and all the mod cons the Golf has.
For £20k you could buy a Golf GTi that's entry-level with the squishy Clarkson-spec suspension.
For £20k you could buy a CTR that's got every option ticked and feels sporty instead of armchair-like.

I know where my money is going.
Oh, and my 147 has a ratchet for seat-adjusments and Jeremy loved that...

Jeremy Clarkson, Stowe on the Wold,

Out here the civic Type R is 2000+ eur more expensive than the GTI (without optional, of course), and I can't understand how in the UK the GTI is more expensive considering that honda ctr is UK made.
The choice for me is therefore even easier. Also, not even optional Air conditioning for Honda. Come on, real racer or not, that's a must have. The prices: GTi-19500 eur (m/t) or 20500 for dsg, Honda CTR-21500 eur, (+19% tax for both).

Mike, Bucharest, Romania

I love the looks of the Honda Civic and think it is by far the most interesting design in its class and I would buy it based upon looks alone. But... even as a Honda fan I have to say that the equipment level leaves a lot to be desired and the interior levels of trim do not look as special as a Golf. I do love the hi-tech looking speedo and its housing, but this is not enough... For a company with a famed F1 history and engineering respect, a lot more could have been done to make this car a real Golf competitor. I must say that I am slowly losing respect for Honda. I grew up with them dominating F1 and Prost and Senna kicking sand in the face of all opponents. With a sporting history like that Honda should be able to turn out cars that are near the top of the pile (NSX!), not just also rans...
BTW, Honda Civics in the US look just plain dull in comparison to this European version. Another diluted design US car!
So, really great edgy body design, shame the rest is bit of a let down.

James Hunter, Cologne,

Waiting for the NEW FIAT 500 ABARTH.....

Pierre, Parma, Italy

Sad to see we're going to get the same junk here in Australia.

James Beleg, Sydney, Australia

Jeremy,

It's time for you to retire as you are getting very boring. I started falling asleep about 2 sentences into your article.

Jeremy Fartson, Car Land, UK

Jeremy Clarkson isn't in a position to discuss what's cool and what isn't. Look at him.

Perce, London,

Walking is fun. Much more fun than driving is anyway, no matter what the car. Walking allows you to actually see the world in all its glory, driving allows you to stare at the rear bumper of the car in-front, maybe taking the occasional split-second glance at the litter on the side of the road.

Martha Raynett, Birmingham, UK

Its quite an interesting read to be honest. I always enjoy Jeremy's reports due to his no bullshit approach. At the end of it all it does show one thing. Jezza is just like the rest of us, he is now a little older and prefers his comforts to outright fun. Just like my dad. On test drives with my dad in the car he prefered the ride of the golf to that of the civic, and merely commented that it was because he was older. But I prefer the sharp response of the civic.........and im 30 years his junior.

Gary, Stafford,

I drive an EP3 Type R. I must say the FN2 Type R is gorgeous and a better everyday car..... but its not a purists Type R. Traction control, Refrigerated glove box, Sat nav...whats "racing" about that?

will, blackpool,

Jeremy, I am a big fan. Have been for years. Love your Top Gear your DVD's and in fact if truth be known it's the only reason I buy the Times! In fact, I'm pretty sure with all the books, DVD's and copies of the Times I have purchase over the years I have personally paid for most of your herb garden. I love your irreverent approach your turn opf phrase and your boyish enthusiasm. But please can you please stop boasting about what you own. You just can't seem to miss an opportunity to squeeze in how big your house is how well appointed (the afore mentioned herb garden, pergolla etc etc) the list goes on... I might just start to look at the price I am paying for all these and wonder do you really deserve it? And the more worrying bit is, I might not be alone.

Bryan Eustace, Dubai, Dubai

... but then, OK Jeremy you've taken to saying "OK" as often and as annoyingly, OK,as possible, OK ... is this a return, OK, to your childhood, OK?

Steve, Horsham, UK

Jeremy.......There are mature enthusiasts out there like me who appreciated the old Type R and are enjoying the new one too. Take another look around at where the bass sounds are coming from too Jeremy. You won't find very many ICE installs in the CTR in comparison with other hot hatches out there. Come On, be fair ! I've looked into the forums.......What the heck do you mean LIKE!!! I havn't found one case LIKE!!! Go to the RIGHT forums PLEASE.

Mick J., Kidderminster,

Hondas are great adverts but poor cars...Focus ST3 is the one!!

Lancs Jezzer, Preston, Lancs

Like, as usual, very funny, Jeremy.
The Ford Ka, like, belongs to me. Please, like, hold on to it until I find time to pick it up. Am, like, in California at the moment.

Andrew, Los Angeles, USA

Given Jeremy's' fondness for the excruciatingly unreliable VW GTI, it should come as no surprise that he finds walking to be so favorable. Something which, after purchasing a Honda, one might rarely need to do. Thus explaining his dislike for a fabulous piece of machinery.

Oh, and the proper way to adjust the seat is with a ratchet, NOT a wheel. Try sharing a car with someone much shorter or taller with you and you'll quickly tire of spending 20-30 seconds spinning that stupid wheel every time to get in the car. I really loath german cars for that reason. If you cant figure out how to operate the clearly superiour design of a ratchet mechanism, its hardly Honda's fault.

Dave, Bullocks, UK

I'm 56 and I drive an old shape Type R. Fantastic car compared with my much loved Alfa GTV. Much loved by my local mechanic, that is. The Civic, by comparison has suspension of a sort and more impotrantly, is utterly reliable. Don't think I'd go for the new one, though. It really could use a turbo.

Steve Lodge, Yarm,

O.K. you’re right. I'm in complete agreement. Now back to the important stuff. Tell me more about that dress you daughter was wearing....

Bob S., London, UK

I'd still have one.
In bronze, with the 19's.
Sod the ride, stunning looking car.

Me, Boston,

Your comments sum up what has been said on the Type R forums, its not hardcore enough for the enthusiast, who are disapointed with what Honda has offered after 5 years since the lauch of it's older brother. You would have expected something to compete with the competition not something which comes last in all group test. No power upgrade, torsion beam suspension, no branded parts such as Recaro's or Brembo's. Why oh why didn't they give us the JDM version that is sold in Japan with 225bhp, stiffer chassis, LSD, HID's. instead they give us the starship enterprise with the rear end of a Renault Megan, the same engine but 200KG more weight and then alter the gearing and the ECU and try to convince you its just as good as its older brother. The only LSD this model needs comes in tablet form and even that might not be enough to convince you.
Because this is the European version there are no aftermarket parts unless you use Jas motorsport and have £40K to send.
another lost customer

Dave, Burnley, Lancs

Thanks Jeremy

I had a test drive only yesterday. I loved it's looks and inside it was more Starship Enterprise than family hatchback. Also, the soundtrack was deeply impressive. It may not be that fast by todays standards but I really wanted to want this car.

However, you are right. The suspension is absurd. Around town and at low speeds it was like riding a duck walk. Rear vision was almost non existent.

I came away concluding that this was a car built by the marketing and cost accountancy bits of Honda.

This afternoon, I have bought a Golf GTI.

Thanks for your comments!

mike mather, Northampton,

Its a shame that the Type-R has been overshadowed by the oodles-better Si here in the 'States. A better suspension is the first among many points that make the car into not only a better choice for sporting lads, but also the better choice for the young family man. Plus, you can have it as a four-door as well, which is certainly a plus.

But where Honda fails is where Volkswagen picks it all up. Higher grade materials, a more "grown up" level of looks and performance, all at a not-too-distant price. I'd gladly pay the extra few dollars for the GTI five-door over the Si sedan here, but then again, there is the GLI for doing that as well.

As I said, its a shame we've got the better car in the US...

Brad Y, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA

It's for young people not old like Jere ..

Rob, Brum, UK

try comparing the civic to the integra type R (japans version) . would love to hear mr clarksons view's.
if thats too hard, may be review the type S.

Jon, London,