2.0 i-VTEC Type R GT 3dr

Every day practical B road king

I bought my Milano Red Type R GT in July, with 32,500 miles and full service history. As I write this, the odometer has just ticked over 40,000 miles. My experience so far is that this car does EVERYTHING. I use the huge boot for work, the effortless cruise control to cover the 600 or so miles a week I do (400 for work, 200 for pleasure) and the raw power for play. Many will parrot Clarkson and tell you that this is "the worst Type R". For me, I feel it stands on the divide between the overly barebones EP3 which whilst great fun as a weekend blaster (but too unrefined for any long distance commute) and the mighty FK2R, which said goodbye to the long standing Honda tradition of a free revving naturally aspirated engine to reluctantly join the Turbo trend. As such, this, the FN2, is the last NA powered Type R. A true champion of the tradition, but with all the modern touches needed to make it more livable. Xenon headlights, cruise control, and that much needed Limited Slip Differential make the later GT spec the iteration worth seeking out if you want it to be more than a short journey car. MPG is what you make it, as that addictive VTEC howl comes with a price tag. My best to date is 44mpg, with my average being 40.2 over my ownership so far. I should say though that I'm out early in the morning and stick the cruise control at 60mph for work mileage to achieve that. Comfort is very good for how hard the suspension is, with poor road surfaces transmitting every jolt and ripple to the body. What this does do, is shine a light on how well built the interior is, with not a single squeak or rattle apparent. And it really does need this hard suspension. The tyres grab the tarmac and pull you round any bend with confidence, whilst you sit open mouthed at the frenzied fury of the rising needle (just make sure you remember the gearstick exists). Sure, 200bhp may not set the world alight anymore, but get away from the Top Trumps mentality and you'll find the package that deploys it here is all the power most people can use, nevermind need.

In summary, this version of the fabled Type R is something special. Fast enough to scare your passengers, smooth enough to be your every day driver and made well enough to do both for as long as you're able to keep your licence.

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