Exploring the Third Generation Civic Type R
The third generation Civic Type R was available in two distinct models: the Japanese Domestic Market FD2 and the UK/International market FN2. The FD2 began sales on March 30 2007. For the first time, the Civic Type R was available as a four-door saloon rather than a three-door hatchback. The FN2 models were exclusively available as three-door hatchbacks and utilised a different chassis and internal layout.
The FD2 featured a 2.0-litre K20A engine. It produced 222 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 159 lb ft of torque at 6,100 rpm. The European FN2 models utilised a 2.0-litre K20Z4 engine, generating 198 horsepower and 142 lb ft of torque at 5,600 rpm. Honda implemented new technology, including a drive-by-wire throttle, in the FN2.
The FD2 sent power to the front wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and featured a standard helical limited-slip differential. This model was equipped with 320 mm disc brakes and four-piston Brembo calipers at the front. It came with 225/40 R18 Potenza RE070 tyres. European FN2 models standardly fitted 225/40 R18 Y88 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres. Buyers could opt for 19-inch Rage alloys fitted with Yokohama Advan Sport 225/35 ZR19 88Y tyres.
Comparing the two, Honda claimed the Civic featured a chassis that was 25% more rigid than the DC5 Integra Type R. The FD2 used an independent rear suspension set up, contrasting with the torsion beam configuration used on the FN2. While the chassis was more rigid and larger than the JDM Integra Type R, weight saving was achieved through aluminium bonding with adhesive, meaning the FD2 was only 70 kg heavier.
The interior of the Type R also changed, featuring Honda-designed seats to replace the iconic Recaro seats, and a Honda-developed steering wheel in place of the Momo steering wheel. Buyers had a choice of red and black or black and black interiors.
Available paint colours included Championship White, Super Platinum Metallic Silver, and Vivid Blue Pearl, which was dropped in October 2008. From that month, the colour options expanded to include Premium White Pearl, Premium Deep Violet Pearl, and Crystal Black Pearl. Testing data revealed the JDM FD2 was approximately 3 seconds a lap quicker than the EDM FN2 model around Castle Combe, and was on average 4 seconds a lap quicker than the Integra Type R DC5 at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan.
Read the full guide: Honda Civic Type R FN2FD2 Buyers Guide
