Is the Honda Type R manual?
Yes. The Honda Type R lineup is sold exclusively with manual transmissions, with all current production Civic Type R models using a six-speed manual and no factory automatic option available.
Current transmission setup in Type R models
To understand the answer, here is a concise look at how transmission choices have evolved across production Type R cars.
- Integra Type R (DC2, 1995–2001) — 5-speed manual
- Civic Type R (EP3, 2007–2011) — 6-speed manual
- Civic Type R (FK2, 2015–2017) — 6-speed manual
- Civic Type R (FK8, 2017–2021) — 6-speed manual, with rev-matching
- Civic Type R (FL5, 2022–present) — 6-speed manual
All current production Type R variants remain manual-only; Honda has not offered an automatic transmission on Civic Type R models as of today.
Why Type R sticks with manual gearboxes
Honda’s Type R lineup emphasizes driver involvement, precise control, and a lightweight, high-revving character. A manual gearbox is central to that performance philosophy, enabling hands-on gear selection, immediate feedback, and a strict weight/complexity balance that aligns with the series’ track-focused identity.
What this means for buyers
If you’re shopping for a Type R today, expect a six-speed manual with rev-matching on most trims and no factory automatic option. Prospective buyers should also assess clutch wear and the gearbox’s performance in high-rev, spirited driving scenarios common to Type R use.
Future prospects
There is no official plan from Honda to introduce an automatic or hybrid Type R in the near term. While Honda is pursuing electrification across its lineup, the company has reiterated a commitment to maintaining driver engagement in the Type R lineage. Any future changes would come with official announcements from Honda.
Summary
Bottom line: The Honda Type R lineup remains manual-only across its current production models, from the historic Integra Type R to the latest Civic Type R variants (EP3, FK2, FK8, and FL5). For driving enthusiasts, that manual gearbox continues to be a defining feature of the Type R experience.
