So let’s just get straight to the big question: what do you think of RM320,000 for the new Civic Type R (FK8R)? That’s a lot to cough up for something enthusiasts paid RM200,000 for the previous FD2R.

However, it is a new playing ground now. The latest Civic Type R is engineered to be equally good as a track performer as it is a gran tourer. My first impression test drive of this car will come shortly (but if you want to read far more comprehensive ones, click here or here) but those two qualities seem to be spot on.

And the FK8R is also a very different beast. Of course, it’s turbocharged with output of 310ps at 6,500rpm and 400Nm between 2,500-4,500rpm, and far more components are far more complex now; including use of adaptive dampers, driving modes, and rev match system.

Let’s not forget that its speed cannot be questioned, not with a 7 minutes 43.8 seconds lap time around the Nurburgring Nordschleife. That’s a full seven seconds faster than the FD2R.

The three driving modes of Comfort, Sport and +R allows the driver to alter with the Adaptive Dampers, Drive-by-Wire system, EPS, VSA, traction and brake system in order to cater to driving requirements.

We are told that numerous components are unique to the Type R, even taking into account the ‘regular’ Civic hatchback. Basically, even if you get your hands on a hatchback Civic (which is not sold by Honda Malaysia), you cannot later on buy most of the individual R components and fix it on. Naturally, same goes for the sedan version. At least not the important components.

Maybe you’ll get away with the seats which is now more rigid yet lighter by 5kg, compared to the FD2R’s. Also the D Spoke leather steering wheel, but you won’t get the high-stiffness, dual-pinion variable ratio Electric Power Steering.

Fun comes from the 6-speed close-ratio gearbox. The rev-match system is set to ‘always on’ as default although it can be turned off. However, Hideki Kakinuma, the person largely in charge of the car’s development said – in not so many words – that there’s no use in switching it off. The rev-match is faster and better than any driver can muster.

While the colour option for the new Civic Type R is quite diverse – Kakinuma-san himself bought one in black – but Championship White is the only one available here. Every purchase comes with a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage, with 10,000km of service interval. There are only 20 authorised dealers which are able to service this model, and they are all dubbed Honda Sport Dealers. These dealers are also the only places where you can place your booking for the Type R.

Since booking was opened in October, HMSB has received up to 60 orders for the Type R; all of which are targeted to be delivered by early next year.

As for the car’s price, it actually is not that surprising. After all, it is the exact price which Honda Indonesia is selling it for after the launch in August.