Test Drive of 2009 Honda Civic Type R Hatchback

The top Civic model is the Type-R, an explosive device that uses Honda's 2.0-liter four-cylinder twin-cam engine, with its patented i-VTEC camshaft switching device. The raw numbers are 198 hp and 142 lb-ft of torque with a top speed of 146 mph, 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and a combined fuel economy of 25.8 mpg (U.S.).

Inside, the Type-R version gets sport seats that trade comfort for increased support. There are a load of natty go-faster extras like drilled aluminum pedals, Type-R doorsill plates, a red-stitched leather steering wheel and Alcantara seat insets and a cold and clammy bare-aluminum gearshift knob. The rear-seat practicality remains, with lifting rear-seat bases for the those "Do you mind if my St. Bernard comes along too?" days. The trunk is large as well; instead of a spare you get a pump and a bottle of gloop, and there is a secret lower compartment.

Source : PopularMechanics