The Honda Civic Type R was introduced 25 years ago—a vehicle that would not only boost interest in its wildly popular Civic hatchback line, but also unleash a new level of performance for the peppy, fun-loving, affordable people-mover. For the enthusiast market that the EK9 Type R was aimed at, it served as an aspirational car that countless savvy tuning DIY’ers would look toward for direction and performance milestones.
Having entered its 6th generation at that time, the “R” version of the Civic used essentially the same philosophy that accompanied the ultra-rare NSX Type R model of the early 90s: lighter, more powerful, increased handling, and, at that time, fewer creature comforts to get in the way of high-revving euphoria. The Civic Type R became an instant legend and Honda followed up the EK9 with 5 more Civic Type R models over the years before introducing the FK8. Based on the 10th generation Civic’s global platform, it would finally bring the Civic Type R badge stateside, with the next Civic Type R expected later this year.
On April 9th, the “Civic Type R Meeting 22 Spec” gathered Japan’s Type R owners together to celebrate those 25 years of production. Hosted at Mobility Resort Motegi (formerly Twin Ring Motegi), the event brought upwards of 400 pre-registered participants to join in on the fun. The day included an optional track event, parade lap, various discussions, which included a presentation by the legendary Keiichi Tsuchiya, who’s had countless hours behind the wheel of various Type R models over the years, and more.
Our friend and Type R owner, Takeru Tojo, attended the event in his FD2 Mugen RR sedan that you’ve seen featured previously. He was kind enough to capture the accompanying photo gallery during his visit.
The one that started it all for the Civic Type R line, this Championship White EK9 sits atop Regamaster Evo and carries the exact look that so many U.S. enthusiasts strive for with their EJ hatchback builds. Just about everything from the EK9 will bolt right on, or into the North American model.
This facelift version of the EK9 features Spoon Sports’ classic two-tone livery, dry matte wheels with signature blue calipers, and a stripped and caged interior.
The EP3 version of the Type R, based on the 7th generation Civic chassis, is the only hatchback model of that era and didn’t gain the same sort of fanfare as the models preceded and followed it. In the U.S., the Si was the most potent edition and like its overseas counterpart, was the only hatchback trim offered.
The FD2 was the first and only Civic Type R sedan to ever be produced. Importers have received countless engine and transmissions from Japan’s wrecking yards with the 4-door’s native K20A, many of which are bolted into 90s-era Civics and Integras.
This bright red row represents the FD2’s Mugen RR model, recognized by their unique front bumpers and grill badging. Each is fitted with Mugen’s upgraded cams and valvetrain, ram-air intake, 4-1 header, dual exhaust, suspension, and model-specific wheel package from the factory. Only 300 were ever offered and upon introduction, they sold out in just 10-minutes.
In 2009, Mugen debuted their Civic RR Advanced Concept vehicle based on the FD2, though it never intended for full production. It features carbon fiber replacement doors and panels throughout with custom aero touches and uses titanium parts to help bring weight down to just 2,414. Its 2-liter engine was stroked to 2.2L with model-specific internals that equate to 260hp.
While the 8th generation Civic-based FD2 was made available in Japan and other select regions, the European and international markets received the 3-door FN2 with its quirky, stout profile. Its K20Z4 engine was rated at 201hp as compared to the FD2’s 225hp output, and it relied on a torsion beam rear, unlike the Japanese sedan’s independent rear suspension. Interestingly, the very European styling was a sign of things to come.
After a hiatus, the Civic Type R was put back into production in 2015 and for the first time, incorporated turbocharged motivation with its K20C1 engine inside of a 5-door layout. Originally available only in the U.K. upon its debut, 750 models would later be exported from Honda’s Swindon facility to Japan.
This example features Mugen’s complete aero package upgrade that includes integrated bumper canards and a towering rear wing. The bulbous front fenders and extended rear arches had some influence on the FK8 that would follow. So content with the FK2 engine’s performance, it was reissued for the next gen. CTR.
The 10th generation Civic’s global chassis represented the first time in history that American’s could purchase a Civic Type R through their local dealer. As expected, it became a huge hit for enthusiasts and carries a dedicated aftermarket that continues to issue new performance and aesthetic upgrades regularly.
Spoon Sports offers a catalog of parts for the FK8, including their front bumper, side mirrors, and wheels, all featured on their demo vehicle.
Mugen also offers a full line of parts for the current Type R but has dabbled in concept vehicles as well, like this RC20GT that completely changes the look of the front and rear ends, uses bulky sideskirts, and stays in line with Honda’s decision to issue 20-in. wheels.
Photos Courtesy of Takeru Tojo
Keyword: Huge Meetup In Japan Celebrates 25 Years of the Iconic Honda Civic Type R