The Japan-Only Honda Civic RS Is The Baby Type R We Deserve

It feels like we’re constantly harping on about cool cars that are denied to us in Europe for one reason or another, but there’s a reason for that: there’s a lot of them around. Joining the ever-growing list is this, the new Honda Civic RS.

Don’t be fooled by the extra-racy name: this isn’t some even harder, more stripped-out version of the phenomenal new Type R. Rather, it’s a sort of Type R Lite, something that distils that car’s brilliant package into something not quite as rabid.

In fact, it’s akin to the once-popular ‘warm hatch’ genre that’s died an even bigger death in Europe than the traditional hot hatch is at risk of doing. It gets a 1.5-litre turbocharged VTEC four-pot, making a modest but usable 180bhp and 177lb ft of torque.

That’s sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual – the only gearbox available – which Honda says has “improved responses.” Whatever that entails, if it’s anything like the delectably slick shift in the Type R, it’s likely one of the best in the business.

The gearbox also gets rev-matching tech so you can look like a heel-and-toeing hero (shhhh, nobody needs to know), and the RS rides on a model-specific suspension setup – although Honda hasn’t detailed exactly what changes have been made.

It’s available in various colours including Platinum White and Crystal Red, while the sole wheel choice is those 18-inch Berlina Black alloys, all of which contribute further to the Diet Type R vibe.

Topping off that look is the optional rear wing, which isn’t actually specific to the RS, but a new dealer-fit accessory that can be added to any JDM Civic (except, we presume, the Type R, which already has a big ol’ wing of its own). If it’s a bit showy, you can go wingless, or even opt for a more subtle, arguably cooler ducktail.

Missing out on this one particularly stings, because the UK car market these days is sorely lacking in genuinely attainable, practical cars that still have real driver appeal. Honda, if we ask really nicely, will you think about bringing this one over?