Honda has officially confirmed that it will discontinue the Civic Type R hot hatch in Europe, with sales expected to cease by 2026. This decision comes as a result of the vehicle's non-compliance with upcoming emissions regulations in the region. Despite this setback in Europe, the high-performance Civic Type R will remain available in other global markets such as Australia—for now. Interestingly, Honda is planning a minor update to the model later this year, which includes dropping the Rally Red paint option and introducing a new Racing Blue alternative.
While Honda Australia has yet to comment publicly on the long-term future of the Civic Type R in their market, the car continues to be a significant offering in the brand’s performance lineup. To mark the end of the sixth-generation Civic Type R’s run in Europe, Honda will release a limited “Ultimate Edition.” Only 40 units of this special version will be available, each one adorned with unique features that distinguish it from the standard model.
The Civic Type R Ultimate Edition is finished in Championship White—a signature color for the brand—with a contrasting black roof and red-stripe decals along the bonnet and sides. The edition also incorporates carbon-fibre elements, including the rear wing, door sills, and centre console panel, which give the model a sportier and more exclusive appeal. The interior receives several enhancements, such as upgraded ambient lighting around the door panels, footwells, cupholders, and under-seat areas. The package also includes Type R-branded puddle lights and bespoke floor mats. Each buyer will receive a commemorative gift box containing a numbered emblem indicating the production number, a carbon-fibre keyring, and a custom car cover.
Honda has not confirmed any mechanical updates to the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 243kW and 420Nm in the standard version. In Australia, this engine is slightly detuned to 235kW but maintains the same torque output. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission, and the Australian version achieves a fuel consumption rate of 8.9L/100km.
The current Civic Type R is manufactured in Japan and exported globally, including to the United States and Australia. Europe—particularly the United Kingdom—has had a deep historical connection with the model. Earlier generations of the Civic Type R, including the EP3 and the previous three models, were built in Swindon, UK. However, the plant was permanently closed on July 30, 2021. Honda cited the high cost of retooling the factory for electric vehicle production and the post-Brexit economic landscape as major reasons for shutting it down.