Honda
Civic Type R
Toyota
86
Honda Civic Type R vs Toyota 86: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Honda Civic Type R comes out ahead of the Toyota 86 on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Civic Type R
Overall
Extremely positive sentiment among enthusiasts, with the vehicle consistently praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, precise handling, and engaging manual transmission. It is widely regarded as a benchmark for front-wheel-drive performance, offering a "magical" feel at the limit. However, owner feedback highlights significant compromises for daily use, including a very stiff ride, excessive road noise, and poor real-world fuel economy (around 20 MPG reported).
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to distinguish a preferred model year or trim within the FK8 (2017-2021) or FL5 (2022-present) generations. Feedback applies broadly to the Civic Type R model line.
Known issues
- ⚠Severe dealership markups: frequently $20,000+ over MSRP, placing the car in a $65,000+ price range. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Harsh ride quality: suspension described as very stiff and uncomfortable for daily driving and road trips. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Poor real-world fuel economy: reported averages around 20 MPG, significantly lower than expectations for a 4-cylinder vehicle. Frequency: recurrent.
86
Overall
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners expressing deep affection for the driving experience. The car is consistently praised for its engaging, balanced, and fun-to-drive nature, with specific acclaim for its handling, steering feel, and lightweight chassis. The second-generation (GR86) receives particular praise for its more powerful and linear engine, improved body rigidity, and smoother ride, though some long-term first-generation owners note the newer model feels slightly less raw and special.
Best version to buy
For the first generation, the limited/GT trims (e.g., Subaru BRZ Limited, Toyota GT86 GT) with heated seats, push-button start, and fog lights are preferred. The Performance Package (Brembo brakes, Sachs dampers) is noted as a valuable upgrade.
Known issues
- ⚠Valve spring recall (First Generation, early models): A factory recall for valve springs, when performed incorrectly by dealerships, led to widespread catastrophic engine failures.
- ⚠General Subaru engine reliability concerns: Underlying concern about the long-term durability and maintenance costs of the Subaru boxer engine compared to Toyota's reputation, separate from the specific recall. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Poor dealership and corporate customer service: Instances of rude, unprofessional, or unhelpful service from Toyota brand engagement representatives and dealership service departments when addressing warranty or recall issues.
The verdict
The Honda Civic Type R is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Toyota 86, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Toyota 86 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Honda Civic Type R or the Toyota 86?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Honda Civic Type R and the Toyota 86. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Honda Civic Type R or the Toyota 86?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Honda Civic Type R is classed as a Liftback, the Toyota 86 as a Coupe, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Honda Civic Type R or the Toyota 86?
The Honda Civic Type R is more fuel-efficient on paper: 8.1 L/100km combined versus 9.4 L/100km for the Toyota 86, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Honda Civic Type R or the Toyota 86?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.