# Honda Civic Type R — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Honda Civic Type R on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/honda-civic-type-r

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2019
- **Ideal trim**: GT
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £30,000

## Why this model

The Honda Civic Type R (FK8 generation) is an absolutely brilliant hot hatch. It's renowned for its incredible handling, powerful engine, and surprisingly practical interior for a performance car. Honda's build quality means it's generally very reliable, even when driven hard, making it a solid choice for a used performance vehicle. It holds its value well compared to many rivals due to its desirability and limited production.

## What you should pay

For a 2019 FK8 Type R GT, you should be looking to pay around £30,000. This generation has held its value exceptionally well, especially the GT trim, as it's seen as one of the best hot hatches ever made. While the new FL5 generation is out, the FK8 remains highly sought after. Prices can vary a bit based on mileage, condition, and service history, but aim for a well-maintained example in this range.

## Which trim to buy

The GT trim is definitely the one to go for. It adds a host of desirable features that make daily driving much more comfortable and convenient without compromising the Type R's performance. You get things like dual-zone climate control, Garmin sat-nav, wireless phone charging, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and LED front fog lights. These extras make it feel a lot more premium and are well worth the slight price increase over the standard Type R.

## What to check before you buy

- Infotainment system can be a bit clunky
- Interior plastics can scratch easily
- Check for signs of hard driving (tyre wear, brake condition, clutch feel)

## Running costs

Running a Type R isn't cheap, but it's manageable for a performance car. Fuel costs will be significant, expect around 28-32 mpg in mixed driving, which at current UK petrol prices (approx. £1.50/litre) works out to about £0.23 per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2019 model will be £580 per year for the first 5 years (due to its original new price being over £40k), then £190 per year after that. Insurance will be high, likely in the £800-£1500+ range annually depending on your age, location, and driving history. Servicing costs are reasonable for a performance Honda, but tyres and brakes will be more expensive than a standard Civic.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 315 bhp
- **Mpg**: 28-32 mpg (real-world)
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2017 Civic platform)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Type R | £31,525 | £28,000 | 20-inch alloy wheels; Adaptive dampers; Brembo brakes |
| Type R GT | £33,525 | £30,000 | All Type R features plus:; Garmin sat-nav; Wireless phone charging |
| Type R Limited Edition | £39,995 | £45,000 | All GT features plus:; Lightweight 20-inch BBS forged alloy wheels; Unique Sunlight Yellow paint |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £30,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £28,000 | 93.3% |
| 2028 | £26,500 | 88.3% |
| 2029 | £25,000 | 83.3% |
| 2030 | £23,500 | 78.3% |

The FK8 Type R holds its value remarkably well for a performance car, especially compared to its rivals. Buying a 2019 model now means you're past the steepest part of its depreciation curve. While it will continue to lose value, the rate is much slower than a typical car, making it a relatively safe bet for resale value in the coming years. Its status as a highly regarded driver's car helps maintain strong demand.

Total value lost since new: 21.7%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Volkswagen Golf R](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volkswagen-golf-r.md)
- Renault Megane RS
- Ford Focus ST

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.