Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition marks the end of an era with only 40 cars set for release

The Honda Civic Type R is an iconic hot hatchback.

It was first released in 1997 as a high-performance variant of its iconic Civic.

Sadly, the Civic Type R is nearing the end of its European sales run.

But, Honda has announced 40 special units to celebrate the end.

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1997 saw Honda release one of the most iconic hot hatchback variants of all time.

The Civic would become the third Honda car to receive the ‘Type R’ variant nameplate.

Like its NSX and Integra siblings, Honda granted the Honda Civic Type R status by improving the existing car.

It was improved in order to achieve Honda’s standards of how it could perform at a race circuit.

The first-generation, EK9 Civic Type R would receive a 1.6 liter, inline-four engine.

The DOHC VTEC B16B engine boasted one of the highest output-per-liter engines ever built.

This 1.6 liter powerplant produced 182bhp at 8,200rpm – sadly, it was only available in Japan.

Thankfully, subsequent Type R models have been released in the United States and the UK.

The Honda Civic Type R is considered a modern legend within the car community.

It is revered for providing so much power and fun from such a compact car.

Sadly, the legendary hot hatchback is being discontinued in Europe.

But Honda is not simply letting it go quietly into the night.

Instead, the Japanese marque is releasing 40 special units to celebrate the Civic Type R.

Dubbed the Type R ‘Ultimate Edition’, these 40 units are exclusive to Europe.

Just 10 of those 40 units will be available in the UK market.

This new Type R ‘Ultimate Edition’ features bespoke red decals on a Championship White paint finish.

A black roof is complemented by by carbon details, especially the enormous wing spoiler.

Honda’s extremely limited Type R ‘Ultimate Edition’ has several highlights in the interior.

Several carbon elements are accompanied by a Type R logo projection that appears when opening the front doors.

Those lucky enough to get their hands on this Type R will receive several special gifts, too.

Buyers will receive a matching gift box containing a numbered emblem from one to 40.

One also receives a carbon key ring, custom floor mats, and even a car cover thrown in for your trouble.

Hannah Swift, Head of European Strategy and Product at Honda Motor Europe, had this to say.

“We thought it was fitting to give the Civic Type R the ultimate send-off with this special edition model offering our customers a unique opportunity to celebrate its legacy.”