Car Video Reviews / Honda Civic Type R (FL5)
Honda Civic Type R FL5 Review: Too Boring to Be Great?
By Stuart Ellis · 19 February 2026 · 15 min video
Has Honda made the Type R too sensible after the boy-racer FK8? I drove the FL5 on suburban commutes and up Mount Glorious to find out.
The verdict
Not even close to ruined. The FL5 is a masterclass in front-wheel-drive engineering, with the most precise manual gearshift I've ever used and the best rev-matching too. The ergonomics and feel remind me of my 997 GT3. If you commute and love driving, I'd recommend it 100 per cent.
Key facts
- Engine
- 2.0-litre turbo four
- Power / torque
- 235kW / 420Nm
- Gearbox
- 6-speed manual, limited-slip diff
- Brakes
- Four-piston Brembo
- Weight
- About 1,470kg
- Fuel
- Just under 9L/100km, not babied
What I liked
- Short, precise shift and perfectly weighted clutch
- Quick steering with lots of information
- Comfort mode is genuinely compliant
- Excellent visibility; the wing doesn't block the rear view
What I didn't
- Steering a touch heavy even in Comfort
- Tacked-on screen and slow, dropping CarPlay
- Fake engine sound in Sport modes
- Only four seats, and an uninspiring engine note
FAQ
Is the FL5 Type R a good daily driver?
Yes. Comfort mode is compliant, visibility is excellent, it has a big boot and I averaged just under 9L/100km.
Has Honda made the FL5 too sensible compared with the FK8?
It's more grown-up in looks, but it's not even close to ruined. The way it drives is still the star.
Is the FL5 manual only?
Yes, it's a six-speed manual with a limited-slip differential.
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