The Honda Civic Type R has taken out the "Hot Hatch" title in the Auto Express New Car Honours list. The three door, 148kW hatchback overcame offerings from the likes of Renault, Ford, Vauxhall and Mini to take out the "hot hatch" title.

Here is what Auto Express had to say on the Honda Civic Type R:

“So what made it a winner? Well, despite being down on power compared to its big-hitting rivals – its 2.0-litre VTEC-assisted engine produces 198bhp (148kW) – it’s the way in which the Civic deploys it that impresses. Finesse has always been a Honda trait and once again, the Type R displays a level of delicacy that none of its rivals can match. The Civic is a car that shrinks around you, and like all great hot hatches, responds directly and faithfully to every input. Yes, there are quicker alternatives with more power and better acceleration figures. But in terms of real-world appeal and, more importantly, driver feedback, the Type R stands head and shoulders above its rivals.

“The Civic also scores in the design stakes, too – it could almost be described as automotive sculpture. A worthy winner of this year’s title.”

Clearly Auto Express are a big rap for the Civic Type R. Honda Australia imports 1200 Civic Type Rs a year from Honda UK’s manufacturing plant in Swindon (does that name remind you of "The Office"). In Australia the Civic Type R retails from around $39,900 AUD.

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