Torque Talk: 2025 Civic Type R S — Honda’s Lightweight Purist Move, Explained
The Lightweight Renaissance
Honda did something bold with the 2025 Civic Type R S — a return to the old-school formula that made Type R legendary. In an era of digital everything, Honda looked backward to leap forward: less weight, fewer comforts, sharper track capability. This is the "driver’s trim."
We’ve seen glimpses of this with the GR Corolla Morizo and the Porsche 911 S/T, but Honda’s execution hits the sweet spot: accessible, functional, and enthusiast-first.
What Honda Removed, What Honda Reinforced
The Type R S isn’t just a delete package. Honda took a disciplined, track-first approach:
Removed sound deadening
Reduced insulation around the firewall and hatch
Lighter rear components
Simplified interior trim
New brake cooling strategy
Retuned suspension with slightly stiffer bushings
Subtle aero tweaks for high-speed stability
Recalibrated steering assist for improved feedback
Spec Cards
2025 Type R S – Performance
Power: 315 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 2,600–4,000 rpm
Weight Reduction: ~22–28 lbs
0–60 mph: ~4.7 sec (est.)
Redline: 7,000 rpm
Chassis Engineering
Retuned dual-axis strut front suspension
Revised damper programming
Stiffer steering rack mount
Reduced NVH for better feedback
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 optional
Track-Day Resilience
Enhanced brake ducting
Higher-temp pads (market dependent)
Improved airflow to intercooler
More stable during 20+ min sessions
Where the Pounds Came From
Reduced firewall insulation
Slimmed hatch trim
Less underbody damping
Improved weight balance for front grip
How It Changes the Driving Experience
The Type R S isn’t dramatically faster in a straight line — that’s not the point. The magic shows up in feel and consistency.
1. Steering Feel
More "tire noise" through the wheel — the good kind. You feel slip angle building and the front end approaching its limit.
2. Mid-Corner Stability
With less insulation, the chassis resonates more. The car communicates at a higher volume.
3. Track Durability
The cooling tweaks matter. FL5 was an improvement over FK8; the S model adds another step of sustained performance.
4. Driver Focus
No gimmicks. No mode overload. The car itself becomes the mode.
How It Stacks Up (Narrative Comparison)
GR Corolla Morizo: More extreme weight savings, less daily-friendly; Type R S has sharper precision.
Golf R 333: Quicker on paper; Type R S is purer and more track-consistent.
2025 WRX tS: More comfort-focused; Honda leans into raw FWD brilliance.
Why Hardcore Variants Are Back
Car culture is rediscovering its analog soul. Enthusiasts miss lighter trims, fewer assists, and more mechanical character. The Type R S proves "hardcore" doesn’t mean miserable — just honest.
Closing Thoughts: Honda Still Gets It
The 2025 Civic Type R S isn’t chasing Nürburgring clout. It’s here to give drivers more feel in a digital world. Honda listened and delivered the kind of machine that reminds us why hot hatches became legends in the first place.