On the outside, Civic Type R looks like a regular Civic with a body kit and larger alloy wheels. On the inside, in addition to the black and red trim, there is a red engine start button, Type R tachometer, red graphics, metallic pedals and aluminium shift knob. Exciting. Thrilling. Every action from the driver—through the steering, brakes, throttle—begets an immediate reaction from the car, creating an intimate, almost intuitive driving environment. The ultra-firm suspension and sublime steering are communicative, passing on detailed information of what is going on underneath. Hardly noticeable body roll, unbelievable grip levels and a wonderfully neutral balance make Type R one very potent track machine. Type R comes with an ultra-firm ride that is uncompromising over rough surfaces and any undulations. This is a car not meant for Malaysian roads or highways. Cabin refinement is broken by the intoxicating engine soundtrack, which is how we like it. As with the regular Civic, the cabin boasts a futuristic dashboard, well-weighted major controls, grippy bucket seats, and great all-round visibility. A wide range of seat-height and two-way steering adjustments allows drivers to find their ideal driving position rather easily. Like the regular Civic, Type R is not short on quality. Cabin materials are high in quality, even if the dashboard may not be covered with the softest plastics. The fit-and-finish are excellent, too, and all the switchgear and controls work with precision and tactility. The underlying mechanicals have remained reliable since its launch, and that positive trend should persist even under hard use. With 222 bhp at 8000 rpm and 215 Nm at 6100 rpm, the high-revving 2.0-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine churns out a rapid, powerful showing, completing the century sprint in 6.0 seconds. But the engine is mesmerising not only because it is fast, but because the aural assault unleashed all the way till the 9000 rpm cutoff is simply intoxicating. The sweet six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox and strong, fade-free brakes also deserve much credit for Type R's outstanding track performance. Type R comes with generous head- and leg-room for four occupants, as the rear seating bench is sculpted for two. The boot is reasonably large too. Despite that, we are just not sure anyone will be taking long trips in a Type R. Driving excitement does not come cheap: Type R is likely to spend most time on a track, meaning more expensive fuel bills. Even under hard use, Honda models are highly reliable, which should lower the servicing and repair costs in the long run. Wearing the Honda badge and being in limited supply, the desirable Type R should maintain strong residual values. Exciting. Intoxicating. Mesmerising. But Civic Type R is also uncompromising. Underneath the benign Civic exterior lies a race car meant for the track, with a ride too firm for everyday use. It is pretty obvious Honda has no intentions of making Type R more well-rounded. And from what we have sampled, we would not have it any other way. Type R comes equipped with 18" alloy wheels, High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, leather steering wheel, automatic air-conditioning, non-factory double Din audio system with 4 speakers, and electric side mirrors. Safety kit includes dual front airbags and ABS + EBD + BA. Spending most time on a track means poor fuel economy and high carbon dioxide emissions—but we are guessing Type R drivers will be too thrilled to care about the environment?