Spotted: Honda Civic Type R (FN2R) In Thailand

If we’re assessing Japanese performance car models from the mid 90s to early 2010s, those made outside of Japan would not garner as much affection as thoroughbred JDM examples, like Mitsubishi’s Evo 10 (or any other evo for that matter). Subaru’s gang of no nonsense EJ20-equipped WRXes were also idolised by JDM fanboys. If you’re not yet convinced, their asking price in today’s world would make you think otherwise.

This stamp of authority made sense back then, but apply this logic now and be prepared for cash to bleed through your pockets. At this juncture we prefer to dig into those that could perhaps offer better value for similar fun. But guess what - here in Thailand the tables have always turned against unfamiliar silhouettes. Their soaring premiums are enough to keep some off Thai tarmac solely as garage queens which we evidently disapprove of. So when one popped up on Facebook Marketplace, investigations were underway…

Under the spotlight this time is the Honda Civic Type R (FN2R). Many reviews were done during its 15 years of existence, but I would like to highlight how this recipe can be relevant in Thailand’s context.

Some labelled it as the not-quite-there FD2R due to its softer setup and engine that somehow seemed less urgent, even though it retained its free revving spirit. Choice of a torsion beam rear suspension made it less planted around corners, but also more forgiving when not driven with absolute ferocity.

Which is how Thai tarmac should be driven in 90% of the time. There are stretches to flex its motor, but most of the time they are dead straight roads littered with potholes. B road blasts layered with equally damaging road surfaces works in favour of the FN2R over other harder-edged JDM examples.

If given a choice I might even opt for the FN2R over the FD2R in Thailand - a more compact shell, better visibility especially areas near the A pillar and a more forgiving suspension makes it a decent cross-province companion. I’ve already imagined a scenario where the full 193Nm can be utliised - after a tollway on a neat 2nd gear pull. You won’t be progressing at warp speed, but that VTEC chord is all that’s required to keep you in the mood.

This unit is going for THB1,990,000 (S$80k), which is a tough ask in our opinion. Potential FN2R buyers might be swayed towards an Evo 9 or GRB WRX for half the money. To be fair it has a low mileage of 50,000km, which by Honda’s standards is spanking new. In Thailand this will turn heads as the typical Lancer-to-Evo conversion cannot be replicated. Driver engagement, although not FD2R-level precise, will still be assured. This needs to be driven - one conceived from Swindon UK has never been more appealing...