Honda Civic Type R vs Volkswagen Golf R
Front-wheel drive and a manual gearbox against all-wheel drive and a DSG: two ways to build the best everyday hatchback.
Honda Civic Type R (FL5), 2022–present
Volkswagen Golf R (Mk8), 2020–present
At a glance
The key differences
The Honda Civic Type R makes 8 hp more: 324 hp against 316 hp for the Volkswagen Golf R.
To 100 km/h, the Volkswagen Golf R is quicker at 4.7 s against 5.4 s.
They put power down differently: Honda Civic Type R is FWD, Volkswagen Golf R is AWD (4Motion).
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Honda Civic Type R | Volkswagen Golf R |
|---|---|---|
| Years | 2022–present | 2020–present |
| Class | Hot hatch | Hot hatch |
| Engine | 2.0 L, K20C1 | 2.0 L, EA888 |
| Layout | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Power | 324 hp (242 kW, 329 PS) | 316 hp (235 kW, 320 PS) |
| Torque | 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) | 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) |
| Power at | 6,500 rpm | 5,350 rpm |
| 0–100 km/h | 5.4 s | 4.7 s |
| Top speed | 275 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Drive | FWD | AWD (4Motion) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual | 7-speed DSG |
| Differential | Helical limited-slip (front) | Torque-vectoring rear differential |
| Kerb weight | 1,429 kg (3,150 lb) | — |
| Power to weight | 227 hp per tonne | — |
| Market | Europe | Europe |
Head-to-head card
A one-image comparison you can save and share. Download the card. The car and engine artwork on the card is AI-generated; the photos at the top of this page are real.
