Honda's Biggest Mistake? Is The FK2 Civic Type R Really That Bad?

The FK2 Civic Type R got Honda fans both excited and nervous when it debuted - the successor to the unloved FN2, the FK2 broke a five year dry spell for Type R products in the Honda catalogue.
It was also the first turbocharged Type R, and when it arrived it is fair to say it was not universally loved. Now, five years on, what are they really like to drive?
#Honda #FK2 #Civic
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[@paulrobinson3528]

A Type R goes down the road, you notice it. A Golf R goes down the road, don't notice it!!!

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

paul robinson that’s true, golf r is the dullest performance car ever made, almost indistinguishable from the shitty diesel driven by the old bloke next door.

[@paulrobinson3528]

@@Jabber-ig3iw Never thought about it like that & yes your absolutely correct!

[@paulrobinson3528]

@Xander Cage At least it doesn't look like the Diesel next door, regardless of fake vents/spoilers

[@paulrobinson3528]

@@ultraguy8771 Is that one of those Golf Diesels that leave you at the traffic light Grand Pricks?

[@woody555kl]

@@ultraguy8771 a golf r is not a sleeper car you obviously know nothing about cars 🤭

[@stevewallace1387]

Just sold my 17 plate Fk2 had it from new done 45.000 miles in it best car i ever had just brought a brand new Seat ST300 estate over 300hp 4 wheel drive and I'm starting to regret selling the honda it was the black edition only 100 ever made i test drove the new TYPE R but to many things i did not like about it so got the seat its a very good car but my honda was better I'm 59 years and have had a lot of car but nothing comes close if you have an FK2 love it and keep it

[@jamesbuckingham77]

Funnily enough I'm literally about to part ex my FK2 black edition for the FK8 next week. Out of interest what is it about the new one that you didn't like?

[@stevewallace1387]

Large fake vents at the back and the big door handles on back doors the fk2 looks like a 3 door much better electric hand brake seats were wider so did not feel so held in showing my age but like a cd player lol and the 3 pipes at the back are not as nice as four the fk8 was still great to drive but its back end is so ugly the fk2 is better to look at which is important to me so thats why bit the fk8 will still be a great car to drive enjoy it

[@jamesbuckingham77]

@@stevewallace1387 Yes I much prefer the hidden door handles of the FK2. It's a great car, I just want something more all round, comfortable for the family, nuts when you want to, stupid to look at, and silly little things like a rear wiper, clever parcel shelf and apple/android, lightened flywheel, suspension. FK2 is more exciting and unstable, but like women - would you want a long term relationship with 'exciting and unstable' or a fling? 😉. My FK8 will be a keeper, 38 cars aged 36 is getting silly. I need to commit!

[@lijkenkist1]

You know there is a point on your keyboard somewhere?

[@KE3W3E18]

Why would you do that 😂

[@tomelliott9]

I dont understand the title, I've never heard anyone say the FK2 isnt a brilliant car.

[@JamesCairney]

This is two years too late but nevermind. This civic lost the independent suspension at the back and got a downgrade to a torsion beam rear suspension set up. The ep3 civic was a better "engineered" car, this FK and the FN were a step backwards as far as the engineering of a hot hatch is concerned. Most motoring journalists thought this civic was a step backwards. This civic was known as the one that missed the mark. The car maybe good in its own right, but it really was a step backwards to save money.

[@tomelliott9]

@@JamesCairney You're saying its a step backwards just because it lost the IRS and ignoring all the massive advancements over the older models lol.

[@mred9161]

The FK2 isn’t a brilliant car. There you go 😂. It is very good but the brutal ride is way way too choppy for the average B road.

[@person2186]

You are right it makes no sense , nobody else said similar thing

[@shand1967]

No one ever criticises the Fiesta ST's handling either, despite it's torsion beam 'handicap'. ​@@toastrytoaster

[@suprastevio2264]

This is the coolest honda ever in my opinion. Maybe because we didn't get it here in the states, but I absolutely adore the look of this car 😍😍😍

[@StevieDjC]

I currently drive a fk2 and apart from a k&n filter its completely stock. I'd have to totally disagree with you regarding it being poor in the wet. Mines absolutely grips to the road like glue, the only time i get any wheelspin is pulling away fast in the wet. No gearbox issues or torque steer either. Best "hot hatch" i've owned, its a hoot to drive.

[@kevinshawntrolitzsch2100]

No Honda guy I guess I got the final black edition and I'm absolutely loving it. I got the FD2 Type R as well. Got no clue where he got his Fk2 Type R from?

[@kevinshawntrolitzsch2100]

@Jay Bee yeah that's true.

[@MuffinMan0521]

I have no idea how you own a car like this and leave it stock

[@HANNON1066]

I currently owen a FK2 and have done 30k miles and don't recognise any of the driving issues you talk about, steering is sharp and precise and always know what the car is doing.. zero talk steer at full throttle is god like.. holds the corners with ease. R button turns the car into a track focused beast hence holding the Nurburgring front wheel drive world record at the time of release, super smooth gearbox. Extremely comfortable, seats are probably the best seats I've ever sat in. Paid £25k for mine and with my spec and colour they are still holding around £17-£19k after 4 years of driving with Zero issues.. the FK2 is only second to the EP3 imo... Did I mention 40 to the gallon....

[@another3997]

Well one of you is wrong. But he isn't the only one to complain about the issues, plenty of independent reviewers have made similar observstions. The question is, what other cars have you compared the steering to? Drive a Lotus Elise or a Caterham and you'll realise how little feedback modern systems give. Most drivers couldn't get anywhere near the Nurburgring lap time, because you have to know the track and the car intimately, which is why those expert drivers spend weeks or months testing and developing with the car. It bears little relation to how most owners drive on a track. There's no such thing as "talk steer". Do you know so little about cars that you can get that wrong? It is spelled TORQUE.

[@joobie1000]

Beautiful car

[@Industriconial]

I took one of these on track when I worked for Honda before they hit retailers. It was immense. Handling was superb for a FWD. The standard exhaust was much quieter than this... this sounds horrible. I think the mods that have been done here have potentially ruined the experience. It's a brilliant car.

[@AWMJoeyjoejoe]

As mods often do.

[@step0601]

I loved my FK2. Great chassis, huge grip, sharp steering, no torque steer that I remember (it was stock) and the ride felt just right. Firm but plush. Felt very stable at high speed (70 mph of course). It felt like Honda's FWD response to the demise of the Mitsubishi EVO. It had that JDM boosty nature coupled with the obligatory bucket seats and huge wing. A little unrefined, you could feel the engine vibrations through the seat which added to its character. It also had an almost completely flat underside with a proper diffuser. My only complaint was rev hang and difficulty seeing the speedo.

[@keshavsharma6241]

I own one of these, and disagree with almost everything Jayemm said and agree with what you said. Above 3k revs car comes alive, steering is glorious i've taken mine up to the highlands twice and its just glorious. Gearbox is stiff when cold and can be crunchy...could be lunched if mismanaged i guess

[@steveazyb2595]

Yh I'm still own mine, 5 years now and not one problem. It's a weapon. Dunno wtf he's on and everyone here in the comments disagree.

[@UpshiftNL]

@@steveazyb2595 Also don't know why people hate on it. The FK2 is my dreamcar, hoping to buy it end of 2022.

[@seanek9]

Would like to hear what a standard car is like. It’s easy to say lowering springs are a “light” modification but in reality the the car has lost its roll centre, anything Honda did to help reduce bump steer is now gone thanks to the lower arms being at some new random angle, dampers are operating outside the nominal range of travel. The fact you seem to imply it’s a bit darty just confirms it. On the invisible sidewalls that car has I can only immagine how bad those springs have made it.

[@DownShiftThrottle]

I had one.....yes it had a torsion bar but it pretty much out handled anything out there. Indeed it is a proper Type R!

[@want2cLOTS]

More or less utterly pointless to review a heavily modded car as if it's representative of the breed. It isn't. The world is full of non-standard cars that have been "improved" and most of the time they haven't. I had one of these for a year and I don't recognise much of what you say about the way it drives.

[@ryuichitanaka3562]

Unless you're at a level of Shmee150 or DougDemuro, as a car youtuber, beggars can't be choosers. You have to take what you can get. Also, I don't see anything wrong with finding out what affect a specific aftermarket component makes on a car too.

[@christopherleach7497]

I agree, i have a standard fk2 gt and this red modded one is not a great representation of the fk2, its been more than 'slightly fetled' Jay! Its been ruined by those mods! It would not have been that hard to review a standard fk2.

[@stephenpeacock8592]

@@ryuichitanaka3562 I hear you, but whilst I would and did buy a standard FK2, I would never have bought one if it was the one featured in the video

[@photosmithy]

I agree 100% ,OEM not some tuned nonsense.

[@ukwan]

I bought one of these new from the Honda dealership in 2016, had it for two years, it was a riot, loved it. Won't have a bad word said about it, only when I wanted to change to a 911 did it have to go and they're not in the same price bracket so what ever.

[@asifnoaman8978]

Underrated car, the FK8 was just a perfected version of the FK2. These also hold their value extremely well due to their rarity

[@asifnoaman8978]

@Xander Cage wow, that was a very immature and childish response...

[@JA-wy1zv]

I Just wonder what the aftermarket parts bin would be like, EP3, FN2 ran for a fair number of years, as will the FK8 , FK2 production run was not long

[@chrisogrady28]

Turbno

[@PUNKF001]

“Rarity” 😂 apparently there were 2.5k sold in the UK. Hardly rare numbers. I agree they are underrated though. They do well on track... when they aren’t overheating.

[@asifnoaman8978]

@@PUNKF001 you are not much of an intellect as it seems. The average production number for a performance car of his category is usually 10k+ 2.5k is nothing in comparison and most sporty civics are mass produced so that is hardly a big number at all. Do your research mate

[@fredtheted2259]

In the flesh a cracking looking car

[@ryan5983]

True that. You can't drive past one without turning your head.

[@ReeceJCurtis1212]

@@ryan5983 because you look at it and go, what the fuck is that, and not in a good way 🤷‍♂️

[@ryan5983]

@@ReeceJCurtis1212 jokes

[@davidappleyard1744]

😰😰😰😰😰

[@jondrizzle4554]

Said stevie wonder 😅

[@JONACAN]

Hmmm not sure about what he's saying about this car is entirely accurate.

[@tomahawkmedia2546]

Exactly. Being a BTCC fan I want one of these so much! The FK2 in that championship has won 4 championships which is mighty impressive!

[@another3997]

@@tomahawkmedia2546 The BTCC car has as much in common with the production car as it does with a packet of wine gums. All the BTCC car shares is a (heavily modified) body shell. You only have to look at the BTCC regulations to find that out.

[@tomahawkmedia2546]

A Nother it shares the same shell, chassis and engine. Of course it’s going to be heavily modified, it’s a race car. I’m not saying they’re exactly like for like.

[@pmtb1960]

The car as standard is very good. If you try and put down another 70bhp through the front wheels it will feel a lot different. I have owned mine for 5 years and have loved every minute and I am 60 years old!!

[@sysakPL]

The gearbox issue apparently can be easily prevented by replacing the clatxh fluid with something a bit more resistant to heat like Motul rbf660 and fitting a little aftermarket heatshield where the clutch hydraulic circuit is close to the exhaust.

[@sysakPL]

@Xander Cage they did cock up but im pretty sure we've seen worse things needing done than a fluid change.

[@rogerbarrett9920]

@Xander Cage - Of course you’re right in stating you shouldn’t have to do that but when I think of all the faults I’ve had to put up with new European cars in the past , I’ve bought solely Japanese cars for the last 25 years.

[@siceg8013]

@@rogerbarrett9920 you can never go wrong with japanese engineering

[@brucel8891]

Clutch damper bypass as well I heard or something along the line of that

[@markhouston3404]

Biggest problem with fn2 was the ep3, that car was way ahead of its time and brilliant to drive, Honda was always gonna struggle to better it

[@thatpersiandude7386]

I know plenty of people who have switched from an ep3 to fn2 however you rarely see someone doing the opposite...

[@markhouston3404]

@@thatpersiandude7386 its finding an unabused ep3 now thats difficult. Will be a car to hold onto if its decent.

[@GazMonty]

I’ve had an EP and I now have an FN2 and I much prefer the FN2 day to day comfort wise but with a bit of VTEC fun. I’m 22 right enough but the comfort and is so much more appealing to me, my EP felt like a hollow tin can and rattled and squeaked which annoyed me a little bit. The EP is definitely more raw and I understand the appeal in that aspect but it’s totally subjective to what an individual wants and prefers.

[@markhouston3404]

@@GazMonty yeah i do agree what with me being 40 year old, but i see the whole point of a type r is to be raw, otherwise you can get a bettter spec with more toys, cheaper thatll better day to day, type r is a weekend toy

[@GazMonty]

@@markhouston3404 Exactly like you said about the biggest problem for the FN2 was the EP3. It was always going to be a hard car to beat, the FN2 is just a bit more refined and slightly softer.

[@Negativvv]

No bashing the FN2 please, I'm not even a fully paid up ricer (I'm an Alfisti) but the FN2 was the last of the high revving NA Hondas and the like will never be seen again. The bashing it got from Clarkson all those years ago was pretty harsh...

[@deet4895]

The FN2 was crap dude, if you want a true third generation Civic Type-R then you get a FD2.

[@Negativvv]

How exactly is the FN2 crap? Guess you could criticise it's hard ride but it's a hot hatch. Rear torsion beam isn't really a valid minus point as it can be sorted with the right set up. Maybe it isn't as epic as the EP3 but I'd rather have a FN2 today than the earlier CTR. FD2 is JDM cool yes but it being good doesn't make the FN2 bad.

[@deet4895]

@@Negativvv Well for one it was heavier than it's predecessor and only made one horse power more which meant it was slower. 2. It got rid of the Fully independent rear suspension so it didn't handle has well. 3. It understeers like a pig. 4. Rough ride. 5. It just wasn't a track weapon like a true Type-R should be. The FN2 was a low point in Civic Type-R history, all the cars that came before it was better. The EK9 was epic, the EP3 defined the Hothatch segment at the time, and the FD2 was just on a different planet.

[@TassieLorenzo]

@@deet4895 Complaining about a rough ride is a stretch... The Japanese FD2 Civic Type R is **dramatically* more stiffly sprung and damped! :) By comparison, the FN2 has already been softened a lot than that. Sure, the FN2 could have been better marketed as a Civic Type S but it is what it is... 1 more hp than EP3 is not entirely accurate picture, the FN2 has almost Accord-like intake runners and much more mid-range torque. I'm not sure an EP3/DC5 is any better, in fact I am sure they are not better. The earlier EK9/DC2 generation out handles the EP3 & DC5 by far as a track day car, while the FN2 or later cars are a much better everyday car. :)

[@deet4895]

@@TassieLorenzo True I'll give you that, the FD2 is pretty stiff. But what about my other points? You don't care to comment? 🤔

[@andypaul999]

Honda just needed to replicate the formula of the EP3 Civic type r, integra and S2000. Low weight; simplicity, discreet styling, close ratio manual box, no stupid touch screens, loads of steering feel, and an innovative fantastic naturally aspirated engine that revs to 8-9k. Thats it really, imagine what that kind of car would be like today?

[@GadgetMart]

Naturally aspirated engines are dead. It’s like asking for a V8 with carburettors It’s just not going to happen. Plus forced induction best thing that ever happened to the internal combustion engine (and I also own a 6 cylinder NA BMW)

[@tracktimevideos5164]

None of those cara had good steering feel but I do agree with the point you are making. Cheap, simple and fun is a winning combo but one that is hard for manufacturers to achieve in modern times.

[@GadgetMart]

@@tracktimevideos5164 take a look at the new Hyundai i20N

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

That's just unrealistic. No one would buy that. The people who always write that stuff are a vocal but tiny minority and nearly all of them buy used and never new. If Honda built the perfect car, it would not sell and be a huge failure. New car buyers want a turbo, hp and lots of equipment, that's just reality.

[@GadgetMart]

@@Mgoblagulkablong can’t pass emissions without a turbo anymore

[@KeenanStyles]

I like this Type R better than the newest model actually lol. Its still no FD2 but its pretty dope in my opinion

[@YouOnlyIiveTwice]

PLEASE do a DC5 Integra Type R review. I think those were probably one of the last great cars Honda came out with before they did an overhaul of their lineup of what they offer today.

[@Razmatazuk]

💯💯👍

[@xMattyMattx]

I have had mine almost 5 years :)

[@Shralps]

Ahem... FD2...

[@mangamaster4]

Had the pleasure of driving this at knockhill and my god... WHAT A CAR.

[@MilitaryHistory2011]

I'd have this over a modern Civic in a heartbeat. It looks a little crazy but at least it doesn't look pre riced out the factory like the new ones.

[@asifnoaman8978]

This is modern😂

[@Synysterjmz]

Its only a 5 year old car lol.

[@tomelliott9]

its like 4/5 years old lmao

[@rogerbarrett9920]

Great test as usual, I hate the raucous exhaust though, too juvenile for me.

[@staLkerhu]

I'm 29, not on the old side I think, this is my opinion: "This thing sounds like every peasant's car with a 4 banger spiced up with the classic stove tube magic. 🤢🤮"

[@rogerbarrett9920]

@@staLkerhu 👍😆

[@Carrera-gp9od]

It’s sounds utterly horrible, I was reaching for the Remote to turn it down 🤮🤮

[@NewDesignVinylGraphics]

It sounds awesome lmao, I’d be laughing every time I floor it

[@mikenewman5938]

I find all the aftermarket exhausts sound terrible which is why I've kept mine standard.

[@steveb3914]

Terrible exhaust put on

[@Carrera-gp9od]

It’s just a tuneless drone to me , way too loud

[@spiltmilkmaniac]

Sounds like a base model 1.4 Civic with a muffler delete.

[@Chris12211]

I think you would’ve been better driving a standard car. I’ve got a standard one, upgraded Pilot sport tyres. Stock exhaust, gets rid of that horrible noise. Remus responder gives a great throttle response. Stock power, not sure if that car has wheel spacers but that’s only going to make it torque steer.

[@TassieLorenzo]

Stock ContiSportContact6 are arguably better than Pilot Sport 4S. They are still the same tyres used on the 2020 Civic Type R. :)

[@stephenlongfield8492]

The best fwd car I’ve ever driven, it’s a utterly fantastic car and hugely capable. I don’t know if the geometry etc was right on that one but I preferred mine in pretty much every way to my Megane RS cars

[@missiondh]

Give me an NA Type R rather. All the turbo cars sounds the same these days. Fart exhausts are horrible. Driving experiences are just boring. Nothing beats the raw driving experience from an DC2 etc. Vtec makes me smile all day

[@Aliasify]

Borderline uncontrollable?! What a load of tosh. As for wet traction, absolutely no issue with a set of MP4S.

[@ryuichitanaka3562]

I thought this was a modified FK2 with around 380hp no?

[@Aliasify]

@@ryuichitanaka3562 I've driven when at 360 without issue, can't see how an extra 20hp would make it undriveable

[@stephenpeacock8592]

I agree, perhaps there are better cars for poor road conditions, but with the MP4S you can press on in the wet no problem and certainly more so than any RWD. The OEM Contis are shocking in the wet and that could be where people get the idea this car doesn't cope with those conditions

[@DjNikGnashers]

I kind of agree. I own an M140i mapped to *cough* 'well over' 400bhp, and everyone tells me that without an LSD I will kill myself every time I apply more than 10% throttle. Well, with PS4's on it, I only slide the back out when I want to, and it is completely controllable even with traction control turned completely off (which BMW still allow drivers to do thank fuck).

[@Android-vk8yh]

first time I'm not in total agreement with j, I own and fn2 slightly modified and I've driven all types of Civic Type-R including the fk8 and this fk2 not modified. Both occasions although very quick cars I got back in with my fn2 with a big smile on my face loving my na I VTEC. You are right the turbos taken away the true old Type-R feeling but it was always going to come with a turbo. Fk2 was basically just Honda's way of introducing the engine to the new platform was basically a test car. And you have to give it to the Honda engineers have the fastest front wheel drive Nurburgring car and then Beat It Again about a year later in the new fk8 which was the platform they wanted to move on to. I myself didn't find any issues with the steering because the car is still fun to drive when you put your foot down and it handles well for a front wheel drive car. The latest fk8 is extremely rated with all top journalists especially in the USA, some even like the fk2. I must have I'm not keen on the exhaust note this guy's got I have HKS induction kit and martelius on my fn2 and it sounds much nicer. In my way again these are all Type-R classics Honda has kept the hot hatch touring car alive when unfortunately cars like the Mitsubishi Evo have gone.

[@80skid22]

I have a fn2 with a supercharger on , k20 engine is the best , 400bhp lovely car .

[@Android-vk8yh]

kid very nice, that must be rapid ,It's a secret club we live in I used to drive the long way to work just to be in it for longer, vtec singing away🤣👍

[@davidwilliams9935]

The fk2 is a amazing car it sticks to the road it's a driver's car

[@Fc-cb3tn]

Speaking of the Type R, I’d love to see a review of the import FD2 on British roads. People say it’s completely different to the FN2.

[@TassieLorenzo]

It's better as a track day car but it's unfair to say it's "completely different". The seats are exactly the same apart from the fabric, the gearbox is exactly the same, the diff exactly the same (on LSD FN2s), the engine block & head is the fundamentally the same etc (it's just minor things like compression ratio & cam profile that are different).

[@jameslee5703]

saying they're "completely different is far from the truth... you can make a Fn2 performe better that fd2 with basic mods, such as : -Lsd ( unless it's a later model or cw) -rear sway bar ( makes huge difference on the fn2 chasie) -lighter wheels ( stock ones are heavy asf) -coilovers And for performance mods all you need is full exhaust with ecu then you'll be making more hp that the Fd2. Fn2 has more room for upgrades since it's "uncooked" from factory

[@Shralps]

@@TassieLorenzo The seats are not the same...

[@Shralps]

Best car I've owned. Tempted to get another. Swapped out the rear shocks for Konis and was fine on our roads.

[@MrRugbyplayer8]

Can’t really agree with much of what you’ve said. Owned one, loved it. Steering is sharp and very response with loads of feedback, especially for an electric system, suspension is firm but comfortable enough for commuting (I used to regularly do 150mile journeys), gear box is precise and short throw, the only reason it ever grinds is if it’s not warmed up properly and you don’t properly depress the clutch. Sound with the stock exhaust is not an issue at all when cruising, could be louder when on the power though, no torque steer at all (Honda did some amazingly clever suspension geometry changes to counter act it). Oh, and 40+mpg on a cruise at 70!? Incredible car

[@wattpilot]

I've got one of the 750 that went to Japan and found its way to New Zealand (less than 10 here). Car R-0663. I've had from brand new and now sitting at 40000km now with no gearbox, heating,.... issues. Fantastic car. Raw and edgy. A test bed for the FK8 power-plant ultimately and a real head turner. A perfect daily driver or open-road runner. As stated loads of storage/... Always serviced by Honda. Very happy and no rush to swap to a more common FK8. Kept the car as stock. Nicely balanced without losing the engineering balance developed by Honda.

[@dazappleby1956]

Try a dc2 😎

[@photosmithy]

Yup , fantastic car.👍🏼

[@FK2VtecTurbo]

i have a 66 plate fk2, completely standard its a great drive. Excellent grip in the dry and a very playful rear end if you want. +R mode needs to on for the full experience though! the b roads where I live feel like they were made for it! As you said the boot is mahoosive i can get 2 full size prams plus a load of other stuff in with the back shelf sitting flat! on a cruise sitting at the speed limit with a few squirts here and there it'll do 35mpg to boot what's not to like.

[@Remenschneider]

A FWD hot hatch can only be as sporty as the base car allows it to be. EK9 -> bespoke Civic platform EP3 -> Stream (MPV) platform -> weird steering rack, steering geometry FD2 -> bespoke Civic platform FN2/FK2 -> Jazz/Fit platform -> torsion beam rear, fuel tank under front seats FK8 -> bespoke Civic platform They had to put a lot of work (and money) into the FK2 to make it drive well, giving it bespoke suspension on both the front and rear (Dual Axis Front Suspension and "crushed pipe" rear torsion beam)

[@Salamanca__h12]

I’m definitely looking to import one cause it’s a rare gem and interior is my favorite from all the type R

[@louissmith7613]

My dream car. It's weird to think just the other day o was looking for a review by you on the fk2

[@simonvinyl]

That's a blinding motor, the wife has one. Loves it. We still have our ep3 too. Driveway looks 😍😂

[@jefferss1639]

I've had my 2015 FK2 for seven years now. The few things I hate are I have to push the seat right back to get in and out, the optimum seating position for me obscures the speedometer, and the seat belt anchor is awkward to use if you are wearing a bulky jacket. I struggle to get in the passenger seat and the back seats are impossible to use. I love this car, it's not meant for pootling around as the mpg drops to the 20's. Find a country road with nobody around and let her rip.

[@JNPhotography]

"£15-16k"... 2 years after this video and these are rock bottom prices for a super high milage one. Been thinking about this car since it came out. Mental how much people want for them still

[@iantownsend500]

Amazing to think Honda weren’t even intending to make the FK2 type R. This was the test bed for the FK8 that’s why the model only lasted 2 years. I still think they look great another BTCC car for the road

[@MagiKKarpets]

Sold my FK8 and bought an FK2 - best decision I ever made 😎

[@vincetin7012]

When I 1st saw this car I knew Jay had reviewed it. He got taste with good looking cars as usual.

[@keithjackson4985]

Impressed with Honda engineering which is always fantastic. Car is too flashy for me, and that exhaust, not great. I know it would be fun to drive though, which at times is all that matters.

[@SilverScarletSpider]

While the FK2 Type R is not as beautiful nor fast as the FK8; it is still and absolutely banging driver’s car while also doubling as a sweet family car.

[@KingofGreen]

I think the fk2 looks the best

[@heikkiremes5661]

Agree.

[@alphatrion100]

Fn2 was a coupe though

[@andyhunt457]

I kinda like this.Looks different.Very much in the old school of hot hatchs,none of this smooth as silk stuff,see fiesta RS turbo and alike.

[@marcohelmet]

I bought the FK2 6 months ago! It’s a proper laugh. A real head Turner. The best car I’ve bought by a mile! This guys clueless! Press the R+ button. It’s a completely different animal!!

[@tommynobaka]

I think these have aged well. still looks fresh. these are sleeper for enthusiasts as they're unwanted

[@1968leg]

Similar to his FN2 review. Already decided not to like it before he sat in it. The FN2 and FK2 will end up being classic legends, watch this space!

[@Synysterjmz]

I suspect the modifications on that particular example may not be conveying a fair representation of what it's like at stock. Both mine and my brothers cars are completely standard and the handling in both is exceptional with zero torque steer in the dry and bundles of grip, especially in the corners. Steering wise, I get what you mean by the force-feedback, but it's so direct, you know exactly where the wheels are and where they're pointing. Perhaps this is just an example of modifications ruining a car with lag, poor handling and an obnoxious fart noise.

[@davidkelly2542]

I've had mine for 5 years and still love it. They do have gearbox syncro problem. Had mine replaced, the roof started to corrode so that was repainted under the warranty. Alloys wheels are prone to corroding which can be fixed by powder coating them. It's been a pretty cheap car to run. I bought the 5 year service plan for £550 which is a bargain. These cars are really good on fuel, on a long motorway run I've seen up to 45mpg!! The hightlight of the cars is the way they handle. It's absolutely brilliant around the corners in the dry and not bad in the wet on mitchelin PS4'S. The steering rack is very quick. It's a shame you didnt really mention this in the review about the handling. It's a pretty fast car, engine is very boosty and full of torque above 3,000rpm. You would be suprised what cars it will keep in a straight line. The engine is not very characterful but many reviewers have said its about the best modern day 2.0 engine in a hot hatch. Looks are devided, it certainly standards out against the boring looking BMW, golf's and other hot hatches. Better than a mk3 focus RS. They get lots of attention on the road, all positive. Suspension out of +R mode is really complient, I've never had the suspension bottom out on me before. I feel your reviews about many cars steering is a little blinkered by you driving many lotus cars with the hydraulic systems. Power assisted steering is never going to be perfect.

[@smilepermile888]

I knew you that you would be an owner of one. No wonder why you were so butthurt by my comment 🤣

[@davidkelly2542]

@@smilepermile888 not but hurt, you made an idiotic comment about a car which drives much better than a m240i. That makes you clueless, especially when you have never driven one.

[@stephenpeacock8592]

Now THAT is a proper review

[@InputArchive]

This Civic still looks very Japanese whereas the new Civic you can definitely see the American influence.

[@thandomthembu4913]

True. It's starting to look like a station wagon more than a hatchback.

[@JoJoJoker]

Let's give JayEmm's shirt a "LIKE"...

[@StevieeG]

Just saw this. Had mine for 2 1/2 years now despite the fact only intended to have it for 12 months as a fun tool for a commute to a short term contract job along some interesting roads (Braintree to Royston via Finchingfield Jay... you are familiar with a fair bit of the route as i have recognised it from your videos!) It's perfectly good in the wet. I've had a couple of Tuscans in my time and I'd never dare to drive them at pace in wet conditions. By contrast the FK2 is never less than confidence inspiring even over standing water... I'd concede it's a bit hopeless off the line, but it doesn't do a lot of that. Crazily with all of the 2nd hand market weirdness of late despite 12,000 more miles under it's belt it's now worth a few of thousand quid more than I bought it for.... but that means nothing really as I am going to keep it until it dies. It's really won me over and it merits a permanent place in my little collection.

[@chrispalmer3096]

I think I've got the only one in my area...I thinks it's funny when someone wants a drag race from the lights....and I turn left. A Japanese car that looks like a Japanese car. I've got no problem with mine in the wet...nor on the slightly icy roads this winter gone.

[@DanLMH]

Sounds like pure rice when pulling away xD

[@DanLMH]

@Az Lean It's a 4pot with a loud exhaust in a hot hatch, it's rice

[@TassieLorenzo]

It sounds like a rally car actually IMO. :) Perhaps too loud for a road car, but any modern low-revving turbocharged four-cylinder with an unrestricted exhaust on it is going to sound like this.

[@scuckplexity]

Sure its the top 5 fastest hatchback in nordschleife... oh wait. I mean ricers in your alternative nonsense world

[@dannyseville2543]

On the opening segment it sounds like they stuck a whoopee cushion over the exhaust. Awful car and the new shape is ridiculous which is a shame as I like it in its BTCC form.

[@legendx3957]

A track weapon you can run the kids to school in , great car

[@stebenit]

I don't think this review did the car justice he never even tried the R button and this car was modified also ,its one of those cars you either love them or hate them many thought this back in the 80's with the Sierra and the escort cosworth whale tails and flared arches vents look what they're worth now.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I tried the R button. Just makes it worse.

[@smilepermile888]

No offence to this car's owner, but that car with that aftermarket exhaust combintion has one of the worst sounding 4 cylinder sounds i've ever heard in a long while. Definitely would've gone for the M240i - although I understand that they aren't really direct competitors with their different drivetrain layouts. Also at 2:00 - I don't know what constitutes as "the last proper Type R" but surely the Japanese Domestic Market's FD2 was more of "the last proper Type R" than the FK2, because it had a combination of a fully independent rear suspension and a naturally aspirated K20 that revved well over 8000rpm?

[@davidkelly2542]

But the 240i isnt that great and has no LSD as standard. You dont need independent rear suspension, drive one and you will realise. You've made such a silly clueless comment.

[@smilepermile888]

@@davidkelly2542 Aww whats wrong, did you have a bad day at work with your boss? You sound like a butthurt FK2 owner who go offended by my opinion. "has no LSD as standard" - so what? No one is stopping owners for getting one optionally fitted from BMW Performance or from aftermarket alternatives such as QUAIFE and Wavetrac. For the majority of drivers who would get an M240i for daily driven duties, its not a deal breaker if you don't have one fitted. What are you, trying to be the next discount Keiichi Tsuchiya or Chris Harris?

[@ryuichitanaka3562]

@@davidkelly2542 "You dont need independent rear suspension, drive one and you will realise." 1.) you're not driving it anywhere near its limits to find out its shortcomings 2.) Traction control 3.) the ride quality is not an improvement over the older FD2 4.) tyre technology

[@davidkelly2542]

@@smilepermile888 it's not just an LSD. The suspension is too soft in 240i, the chassis is all over the place on them. It's no where near an M-car. What's the point in wasting 2k on an LSD then a further 2k on decent dampers when you can just buy an m2. Plus they look dreadful, the styling resembles a boot. The interior dash is seriously dated too. I'd rather walk. The fk2 is driver focused, the m240i is more of a gt than a hot hatch!!

[@davidkelly2542]

@Ryuichi Tanaka if you had half a brain you would understand that due to emissions Honda can no longer make n/a cars.

[@daviddobbs295]

Good review as usual my man. Bring us a review of an FD2 Civic Type R? I loved the review you did on the FN2 type R

[@chaospxl_]

If i had to pick one of the Type Rs, though i'd gladly hop into the seat of the EK9 or EP3, i think in terms of MODERN Type Rs, it'd be this one!

[@georgegascoigne7456]

Fk2 my new ride now going from an fn2 its night and day. Rides still stiff but much improved the turbo with vetec is little weak imho. Overall amazing car. I do agree with drifting steering would be my only grip.

[@paulrobinson3528]

JayEmm, hows the S2000 big plans going??

[@LucianR1987]

You have no ideea what you talking about down there,this is one of the nicest,powerful and reliable hatchback ever made! I have the 2016 Honda Civic but is only 1.4 petrol and is smooth,cheap to drive,reliable and head turning car,I use it in the last 8 months and still I could't find something that bother me on this model,for sure I will upgrade soon for an 2015 - 2016 Type-R...

[@FreestylerAlbert]

#1: overheating issues (yes, experience I know there are aftermarket grills to help on it) #2: on hard brake the rear slides left and right (yes, experience on track) #3 sound: what sound?.. #4: Shift from 1 to 2 grind It's not the biggest honda mistake, that's the new "nsx".

[@mugenmark]

That exhaust note is awful! Can’t believe someone would actually pay extra for that lol. Honda really messed up by not separating the throttle map and suspension firmness when switching drive modes. In R mode it’s unbearably firm on the road. It’s the reason I bought a Focus RS. Plus that can put its power down on all surfaces without fear of ending up in a ditch.

[@The_Touring_Jedi]

R mode is not for the snowflakes...it's still one of the best affordable track car out there.

[@Sr82.]

Duno what planet this guy is living on

[@brettkimber6851]

Jayemm, don’t get what your saying about the handling, I have a standard FK2 Type R and it’s absolutely brilliant. So much grip and corners so flat you didn’t mention anything about that? And also the diff is great, you can plant your foot mid corner and it pulls you out with full power being laid down. I think you need to drive a standard one. I agree too much power through the front wheels is not good and the fact it ‘may of been lowered’ would also ruin the ride and balance of the car. IMO Honda had the FK2 dialled in just right out of the box..

[@HONDA-zc2fg]

I own and fk2 type r! best car I've had to date!

[@anyau]

i just hate how big these cars have gotten, it's so unessacry, there doesn't need to be any comfort or luxury in a type r(acing!!!!!!!!!!!) honda

[@ThatYellowDucati]

Looking through the comments, I can't help but think you need to find and drive a standard version of this generation FK2 CTR. Its beena couple of years, their is the new new FL5 out now... i think the FN2 and FK2 need a revisit with a fresh set of eyes to see just how good we had it with these cars. Especially at their new used prices for 2024.

[@markselby7720]

sorry dont agree on a lot of what you said , the handling in the wet is fine ,in the wet put your foot down in any front or rear wheel drive car your going to lose traction, had the ep3 ,fn2, test drove the fk8 and purchased the fk2 ,the ep3 and fn2 dont touch it on performance or handling ,its in a different league ,its a stiff hard ride which is what a car like this needs to be ,thats what it was designed for ,a lot of faults relate to poor servicing etc, that exhaust sounds horrible and needs to come off, still the best hot hatches around and unlike others the value is rising everyday, (a none biased fk2 owner)

[@Tombrosapien]

Lookswise I think I prefer the FK2 over the FK8

[@ryan5983]

I like these and seriously considered buying a new one but in the end I purchased a used GLA45...I made the right choice.

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

no

[@ryan5983]

@@Mgoblagulkablong yes

[@syscoord195]

Theyre such different cars, ones a performance car, the other is a suv light. Why go that way?

[@johnnytrigger5512]

No

[@ryan5983]

@@syscoord195 everyone seems to have the A45, wanted something a bit different that also had room for Husky.

[@projectnorahlyne1018]

Great video, along with a pretty fair review. Took my 71 year old dad car hunting lol. He has seen both of these. His thoughts were the FK2 looked OK, but when he saw the FK8, his first words where, 'now thats what you call a sports car. Looks like something batman would drive.' 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@giovannidinunno4855]

It's one of the best cars ever made. It basically a truck that handles like a supercar.

[@1968leg]

Looks wise, I think that's a work of art. We all see things differently i guess.

[@SA-zoom1]

Yes by picasso

[@tylern922]

I’ve owned a fk8 for a little over 2 years. Gotta say the fk2 looks way better. Sadly I live in the us

[@MotorsportbyMario]

FK2 is way cooler than the FK8

[@respirotyper929]

I prefer my FN2 Championship White over the FK2R.

[@alexv8150]

Can you specify the specific type of “jiggerary and pokerary” under the hood? 🍺🍺

[@Razmatazuk]

Jay Emm, destroyer of car dreams 😄 the FK2 is a special car to me. It is one of a kind, a moment in time between the NA screaming Type R Hondas of old, and the modern turbo nutters. The FK2 is and always will be special.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Why is it special?

[@Razmatazuk]

@@JayEmmOnCars because its rare and a moment in time between shifting car ideologies.

[@Razmatazuk]

@@JayEmmOnCars I've edited my comment to show its only a reflection of my feelings. All opinions are equally valid. But to me it will always be special

[@Razmatazuk]

I love your honest and thought provoking reviews though. So no criticism from me

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@Razmatazuk Much appreciated. I can see where you are coming from, but for me the FK2 seems like the hulk halfway through a transformation - not quite there yet, and rather than "best of both worlds" it is just an awkward middle point

[@markwalton8644]

Chavvy, farty sounding Rice box. What's sad is the K20 even when turbocharged sound savage. Bring back the Breadwagon the FK2 and FK8 are where Honda lost it.

[@mattlang5327]

R button also makes the throttle response much higher , so not pressing the r button and doing your review you will not have anywhere near the full performance of the car

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Its still the same performance you just have to push the pedal further

[@mattlang5327]

@@JayEmmOnCars It’s a more responsive throttle pedal , I own one I know that the throttle is far more responsive in r mode and yes peak figures are the same but car feels far more alive the car isn’t perfect but feel like it is far Better than made out in the video but hey free world and everyone has their opinion

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@mattlang5327 it's basically a sprint booster, the "sport" button in nearly every car does a similar thing and I hate it. Just ruins throttle linearity - but each to their own

[@mattlang5327]

@@JayEmmOnCars as you say each to their own I like the raw feel of the fk2 power and handling far out performed my heavily modified Subaru Sti , with more reliably, I am a Subaru guy aswell 😂

[@vasekvi]

If my FK8 did not come with 5 doors, I would not have bought it. I can't think of a better car all around between its performance, practicality and driving enjoyment.

[@lassesvensson4103]

What I can see its wider tires on that car compared with oem, looks like 255x35 r19 instead of 235x35 r19, that could make a big different about the steering that he didnt like.

[@johanwikstrom5671]

Soooo.. which one is better? FN2 or FK2?

[@Jpjc474]

I’m thinking of buying a Type R and like you I was shocked that these were still so expensive. The stying is quite ‘out there’ I’m not sure if it screams steal me.

[@karllelliott681]

Believe it or not I had a '16 Grey and a '17 red FK2 type R. Long story around this but I did love both of em. I never had a gearbox fatality but 1st-2nd always suffered from rev hand and a slight graunch which was a little milder going from 2nd-3rd. Space and front seats were sublime also. Ultimately the lack of a 'comfort' mode for this 52 year old was the deciding factor. However i just can't reconcile the looks of the FK8 or abide the lack of 'proper' handbrake, so MK3.5 Focus ST3 for me.

[@karllelliott681]

Excellent and accurate review James IMHO. Yes, the space with the magic seats was also superb and I agree with the following you mentioned: best driven @ 50-60%, force feedback steering not great, smooth gearbox (apart from aforementioned note) wayward in the wet at normal state of tune, better looks than the FK8 for sure (subjective I know).

[@karllelliott681]

Bugger! I also forgot the wheels. Don't even look at a kerb whilst driving else you will knacker those alloys ...badly!!

[@thedetailingdoctor5746]

2 wrong wheels couldn’t be more correct there mate 👍 the ek9 and ep3 were the best type rs ever made imo however I’d still prefer an eg6 sir2 vti any day over any of them specifically the coupe

[@xMattyMattx]

How does this compare to the Renault Megane RS 280 Cup you drove?

[@jasonboyle7203]

Not so forgiven review they are bit of a harsh ride but great. The firmness held me back now own FK8 perfectto.

[@evrensokmener6768]

This is the best hot hatch ever made. The handling is mind blowing and the steering is great. You should have driven a standard one this one sounds terrible. This is a true driver's car. Yes in R mode it's a very hard ride but it makes up for that in the way it drives. The engine when it gets going feels faster than 306bhp.

[@stephenpeacock8592]

I think you are better placed to review this car and as an owner I agree with most of your assessment

[@DjNikGnashers]

@@stephenpeacock8592 Well I disagree. Best hot hatch ever made LOL don't be ridiculous.

[@ethanrodelas]

Where can i buy the fk2 spoiler. Been trying to find one for my 2015 civic

[@florijankuruc4327]

After a six year of owning one never had any issues!

[@CarToneHK]

That exhaust isn't doing it any favours and in stock form, the rear torsion beam as well