If you’ve been a fan of the Civic Type R over the years, this might sting a bit. Honda’s officially calling time on its legendary hot hatch in the UK and across Europe. The swansong? A special send-off called the Civic Type R Ultimate Edition. It’s a proper curtain call for one of the most beloved hot hatches to ever hit the road.
Why the Civic Type R Is Leaving Europe
So, why has Honda decided to pack it in? It all comes down to the new Euro 6e-bis emissions rules kicking in from January 2026. These stricter regulations are leading many carmakers to rethink what they offer, especially when it comes to petrol-powered performance cars.
Hannah Swift, who heads up Honda's European strategy and product planning, put it like this: "The industry is changing, and our model range is having to evolve with it in accordance with European legislation. However, Type R has always been Honda's ultimate expression of our passion for driving excitement, and we look forward to celebrating its heritage in the weeks and months ahead."
Only 40 Units – A Collector’s Dream
To give the Civic Type R a proper send-off in Europe, Honda’s releasing a limited-run Ultimate Edition—only 40 are being made. Just 10 of those are heading to the UK. It’ll set you back £57,905, and in return, you get a few nice touches that make it feel a bit more special.
Each car comes with a gift box that includes a numbered badge, a carbon fibre key ring, custom mats, and a car cover. It’s the kind of pack that screams “collector’s item” without being over the top.
What Makes the Ultimate Edition Special?
This final version is based on the FL5 Civic Type R that enthusiasts already rate pretty highly, and the driving performance hasn’t been messed with. What stands out are the little styling tweaks.
You get a Championship White paint job (no surprises there), along with a black roof and red stripes down the bonnet and sides. Honda’s thrown in some carbon fibre bits too—rear spoiler, door sills, centre console—the works. Oh, and it even has puddle lights that project the Type R logo, which is a neat little feature you didn’t know you wanted.
Looking Towards an Electrified Future
As the petrol-powered Civic Type R bows out, Honda’s already looking ahead. Between 2027 and 2030, the brand's planning to roll out 13 new hybrid models as part of the wider move toward electric and hybrid vehicles.
Sure, we’re saying goodbye to a proper old-school hot hatch here, but the Type R’s reputation—built up over nearly 30 years—isn’t going anywhere. With its special features, proven engine, and limited numbers, the Civic Type R Ultimate Edition feels like the right way to close the book on a real icon.
If you’re into performance cars or just love a good manual gearbox, this isn’t just another model winding down. This feels like the end of a proper era