The Honda Civic Type R Lost Its Nürburgring Crown To The Golf GTI, But It Doesn't Matter
The Volkswagen Golf GTI has reclaimed the Nürburgring lap record for front-wheel-drive production cars from the Honda Civic Type R. Despite the loss of the title, the author argues the Civic Type R remains a superior driving experience.
Why it matters
Performance records are a key marketing tool for automotive manufacturers, influencing brand prestige among enthusiasts.
Honda By James Kelly Published Jul 10, 2026, 7:30 PM EDT James Kelly didn't grow up knowing he wanted to be a writer, but once he fell into the whacky world of automotive journalism, he hasn't wanted to leave. In college, he found ways to make every paper he wrote related to automobiles and even hosted a show on the campus radio station called "The Engine Block." James's experience involves road-testing brand new cars, breaking old cars, and everything in between.
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