Do Type R Civics only come in manual?
No. Honda’s Civic Type R lineup has been sold exclusively with manual transmissions across every generation, and there is no factory automatic (including dual-clutch) option in production.
The question touches on the core spirit of the Type R—driver involvement, precise shifting, and a hands-on driving experience. This article surveys the transmission setup across generations and clarifies current availability in global markets.
Manual-Only lineage: generations at a glance
Below is a concise look at each Civic Type R generation and the gearbox that accompanied it.
- EK9 Civic Type R (1997–2000): 5-speed manual transmission.
- EP3 Civic Type R (2001–2005): 6-speed manual transmission.
- FD2 Civic Type R (2007–2011): 6-speed manual transmission.
- FK2 Civic Type R (2015–2017): 6-speed manual transmission.
- FK8 Civic Type R (2017–2021/2022): 6-speed manual transmission.
- FL5 Civic Type R (2023–present): 6-speed manual transmission.
Across generations, the manual gearbox has defined the Type R’s performance character, aligning with Honda’s emphasis on driver engagement and precise, holistic control.
In every market where the Type R has been sold, Honda has not offered a factory automatic or DCT variant for these models, reaffirming the model’s identity as a manual-focused hot hatch.
Market context and related notes
While the broader Civic lineup includes automatic options, the Type R family has consistently prioritized a manual setup. The current and recent generations—FK8 and FL5—are sold with a 6-speed manual transmission in North America, Europe, and Asia. There are no official DCT or CVT variants offered for Type R models.
Related models you might confuse with Type R
For context, the Civic Si—another performance-oriented variant in many markets—also emphasizes driver involvement and is typically manual, but it sits below the Type R in performance and price. The Type R remains distinct as Honda’s flagship for focused, enthusiast driving dynamics.
Summary
In short, if you’re shopping for a Civic Type R, expect a manual transmission as standard equipment. The Type R’s identity as a performance-oriented, driver-focused model has been built around a stick shift for every generation, with no official automatic or DCT variant produced by Honda to date.
Does the Honda Civic Type R come in automatic?
No, the current Honda Civic Type R is only available with a six-speed manual transmission, with no automatic option offered by the manufacturer. While there have been rumors about future models potentially adding an automatic, the brand's focus for the Type R is on a manual transmission to cater to driving enthusiasts.
- Manual-only: The current generation Civic Type R is exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission.
- Enthusiast focus: The brand has historically produced the Type R with a manual gearbox, as it is considered a key part of the high-performance driving experience.
- Rumors of future automatic: Despite the current model being manual-only, some reports speculate that a future generation of the Type R could include an automatic transmission option, such as a dual-clutch automatic. However, this has not been officially confirmed by Honda for the current model.
Are Civic Type R only manual?
Yes, the Honda Civic Type R has only been available with a manual transmission, and this is expected to continue. This manual-only configuration is a key part of its identity as an enthusiast's car, with Honda citing reasons such as keeping the powertrain lightweight and maintaining an engaging, hands-on driving experience.
- Manual-only for a reason: Honda has committed to the manual transmission for the Type R, a decision linked to the car's focus on performance and driving engagement.
- Reasons for the choice:
- Weight: A manual transmission is lighter than many automatic options, which helps with the car's overall performance and power-to-weight ratio.
- Enthusiast appeal: A manual transmission is a core part of what makes the Type R an enthusiast special, requiring a third pedal and offering a more direct connection to the driving experience.
- Transmission features: The manual transmission in recent Type R models includes features like rev-match control for smoother downshifts.
Are there any Civic SI automatic?
And Camry are all available with all-wheel drive as well. The way I look at the new Civic Hybrid is honestly like the automatic SI that Honda refuses to build why well because we have the same amount
What does the R in Type R stand for?
The "R" in Type R stands for "Racing". It signifies a high-performance version of a car model, engineered for racing and track-focused driving. Type R models are built with a focus on performance, including a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and a lighter body.
- Racing-focused design: Type R cars are developed to perform well on a racetrack by shedding weight, enhancing aerodynamics, and improving the engine, brakes, and suspension.
- Origin: The concept originated from performance tuning for racing cars, with the first Type R model being the Honda NSX-R in 1992.
- Championship White: The iconic "Championship White" paint color used on many Type R models is a nod to the Honda RA272, the Formula 1 car that secured Honda's first Grand Prix victory in 1965.
