Honda Civic Type R hatchback (2015-2017) - Interior & comfort
The Honda Civic Type R has a racy-looking and well built interior, but the hard suspension can be irritating
Sporty details can be found everywhere inside the new Civic Type R, as it builds on the standard Civic hatchback’s well made and distinctive dashboard. Digital displays are plentiful and the Type R’s body-hugging sports seats hold you in place tightly. The GT Pack is worth specifying for all the extra equipment you get, but some of this kit is standard on other hot hatchbacks.
The sports suspension is quite firm, particularly in +R mode, but in normal mode it should be tolerable for everyday or motorway driving.
Honda Civic Type R dashboard
The futuristic looks of the current Civic hatchback’s dashboard are retained in the Type R, with the hot hatch throwing in sporty touches and swathes of red trim. A glowing red starter button and the +R button are set either side of the instrument cluster and there are touches of red leather and stitching on the steering wheel. A big Type R badge is set into the centre console just in front of the aluminium-finished gearlever.
All in all, the Type R’s interior is just as well made as the standard Civic hatchback’s and much less restrained than the cabin of a Volkswagen Golf GTI or SEAT Leon Cupra 280, for example. It doesn't feel quite as solid and classy as those cars' cabins, though.
Equipment
The dashboard is dominated by the large central touchscreen display, which features Android MirrorLink. This software mirrors your smartphone's screen, so apps like Google Maps or the music player can be displayed. The system is easy to use, but the screen doesn't look as integrated as those in some rivals – you could be forgiven for thinking it's an aftermarket unit bought from Halfords.
Standard equipment also includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, suede-effect sports bucket seats and an adapted version of the intelligent Multi Information Display. The screen readouts are already seen on the standard Civic hatch have been given a Type R makeover and includes more performance-focused readouts.
Options
The optional GT Pack includes lots of extra kit inside and out. You get flashes of red in the front and rear bumpers, as well as equipment such as rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers and Garmin sat-nav. Dual-zone climate control and a premium stereo are thrown in, too – just be prepared to add around £2,300 to the price tag. We think some of this kit should already be standard on the flagship Civic, but Honda’s excuse might be to save weight on the standard car.
One of five colour options can be chosen: Crystal Black, Polished Metal, Brilliant Sporty Blue, Milano Red and Championship White. The latter is a nod to previous Type R models.
To personalise your Type R, design Red or Carbon 'Design Packs' add subtle details of either finish, with details like red finishes on the rear bumper to a carbon fibre glovebox available depending on the chosen pack.
