- honda has increased the price of the 2019 civic type r by $635, as first reported by carsdirect.
- this represents yet another upward price adjustment since the car's debut, despite the fact that it has hardly changed since it was introduced for the 2017 model year.
- the new base price of $37,230 went into effect july 9 for 2019-model-year type rs, according to the order guide.
the raucous 306-hp honda civic type r seemed like a screaming deal when it first hit the scene, but honda has been steadily raising the price over its three model years. yet another price increase has gone into effect midway through the 2019 model year, with a $635 increase to $37,230 for the one-choice-only touring trim level. partly to blame is honda's increased destination charge, which went from $895 to $930 as part of this pricing update.
compare the latest 2019 price to the 2017 civic type r's initial base price of $34,775, and you're looking at a significant $2455 uptick over two model years. during that time, the type r received a few minor updates including a new color and a volume knob, but it remains mechanically identical, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
to be fair, the type r remains a solid value within the context of its closest rivals, as the 2019 volkswagen golf r starts at $41,290 and the 2019 subaru wrx sti starts at $37,480. the upstart hyundai veloster n, however, undercuts the type r significantly, with the 2020 model starting at $30,430 with its optional performance package (admittedly, it has less power than the type r, at 275 horsepower, and it lost to the honda in a comparison test).
rumors have suggested that honda may introduce a lower-cost trim level below the touring with less equipment at some point. type rs were selling with significant markups in 2017 due to initial pent-up demand, but it's possible honda will see fit to attract more budget-minded hot-hatch buyers soon, we hope for the 2020 model year.