POWER RANGERS

New Honda Civic Type R locks horns with most powerful VW Golf R ever for bragging rights

WHAT IS A REAL-WORLD ROAD TEST?

THE Auto Express Real-World Road Test subjects the latest cars to our rigorous assessment process, which is focused on buyers' needs.

We consider the merits of each car, not only the way that it drives, but also every aspect important to owners, from the space inside to the usability of infotainment systems.

Equally importantly, we give you a clearer indication than ever of how much you can expect to pay if you place an order today, thanks to our in-depth number crunching.

WHEN the first hot hatchbacks emerged, the three letters to catch the eye were GTI. Over the years, the hot hatch evolved, and so did the naming hierarchy. Now, if you want the ultimate performance, you want Rand the two cars here are each part of a long lineage that built the tradition.

First up is the new Honda Civic Type R. The fifth generation to make it to the UK gets more power and know-how than any model before it. Here, it's pitched against the Volkswagen Golf R, in 20 Years form to mark the anniversary of the R brand. The latter has a couple of subtle changes, focused on the powertrain, that make it the most potent Golf R yet. But which R stands for 'Ruler', and which is 'Runner Up'? 

Honda Civic Type R

MODEL TESTED: Honda Civic Type R PRICE: £46,995 POWERTRAIN: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo, 324bhp

THE Honda Civic Type R benefits from years of hot-hatch development - but all of that sophistication comes at a price. The new model starts at £46,995 - a massive step over the £31,500 the previous model cost barely five years ago. The signature Championship White paint finish adds £650, bringing the total for our car to £47,645.

Tech highlights