CAR WARS! Which R Suits YOU? The Honda Civic Type R OR The VW Golf R?

The new kid on the block for 2017 is the Honda Civic Type R. Last year it was the Ford Focus RS. Prior to that, it was the Volkswagen Golf R. 

To be honest, I am seeing a ton of the Civic Type Rs crop up around my neck of the woods. So, it's gotta be doing something right — or it's just pent-up demand. 

But, who's king of the castle? 

Unfortunately, our friends at Autocar did not bring the Focus RS along for the ride but we'll make do. It gives an excuse to do another head-to-head test. 

Watch below as the Civic Type R does hand-to-hand combat with the Golf R. Then, let us know your thoughts on the verdict: Would YOU rather have a Civic Type R or the Golf R?


The new Honda Civic Type R is one of the world's best, and most exciting, hot hatchbacks. But, then, so is the Volkswagen Golf R.

MDarringer - 9/24/2017 11:12:09 AM

-1 Boost

They are such extremes. The Golf is dull and dowdy. The Civic is Lexus garish. Give me a Focus RS.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 9/24/2017 2:00:32 PM

+1 Boost

I would not be caught dead with the Civic. I would go with the Golf R as it is an understated sleeper / Q-Ship if there ever was one. Plaid interior inserts if I can get it would be great too.

carsnyc - 9/24/2017 6:04:49 PM

+4 Boost

Both so that you can drive the Civic while the Golf is at the repair shop

MDarringer - 9/24/2017 9:54:45 PM

+1 Boost

I wish I'f thought of saying that.

Tiberius1701A - 9/25/2017 8:45:25 AM

0 Boost

Yep, I agree with Matt. Add an 'S' to that!! Focus RS FTW.

Dexter1 - 9/25/2017 1:13:56 PM

-1 Boost

The Civic is simply too hideous to compete against anything except Lexus. Too bad. The reviews show that it's an amazing machine.

MorePower - 9/25/2017 6:54:44 PM

+1 Boost

Neither, both are overpriced!

But if I had to choose, I would take the Golf R because:

- it has higher performance potential
- it doesn't scream "give me a speeding ticket" from two blocks away
- it main look plain, but definitely looks better than a Civic R
- some maladjusted genius from Alabama, Germany or Canada will find a way to get it to 600+ hp and erase all the driving nannies that say "no" to fun