Toyota Corolla fans might scoff, and Golf GTI loyalists will shrug—but here’s the truth: the 2025 Honda Civic RS is South Africa’s most underrated sporty sedan. Priced at R725,000 (confirmed by Honda SA), it’s a stealthy blend of tech, comfort, and just-enough-power to shame its rivals. And for the purists? There’s a Type R lurking in the wings. Let’s unpack why this Civic deserves a second look.
SA Pricing & Specs: The Underrated Hero
Honda SA’s R725,000 tag positions the Civic RS as a dark horse in the sporty sedan race. Let’s compare:
| Feature | Honda Civic RS | Toyota Corolla XR | VW Golf GTI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | R725,000 | R665,000 | R820,000 |
| Power | 131kW | 131kW | 180kW |
| Torque | 240Nm | 210Nm | 370Nm |
| Fuel Economy | 6.5L/100km | 6.4L/100km | 7.8L/100km |
| Tech | 9-inch + Wireless CP | 8-inch + Wired CP | 10-inch + Digital Cockpit |
Why Underrated?
The Civic RS quietly outdoes rivals with:
- Honda Sensing Suite: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and AEB—all standard. (Take notes, Toyota.)
- SA-Tuned Suspension: 140mm ground clearance vs. the Corolla’s 130mm. Potholes? Sorted.
- Subtle Styling: No boy-racer vibes, just sleek blacked-out trim and 18-inch alloys. Perfect for Pretoria’s school runs and Franschhoek’s passes.
Automatic vs. Manual: A Generational Shift
The Civic RS is CVT-auto only—a decision that’s split opinions:
- Older Drivers: “Where’s the manual?!”
- Newer Drivers: “Thank goodness, no clutch!”
Honda’s gamble: Less than 10% of SA’s compact car buyers opt for manuals today. By ditching the stick, Honda’s betting on convenience over tradition. And honestly? With Cape Town’s stop-start traffic, we get it.
For the Die-Hards: Enter the Type R
While the RS caters to the “sensible thrill-seeker,” the Honda Civic Type R is here to set your inner petrolhead on fire:
- Engine: 2.0L Turbo (235kW/420Nm)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (purists, rejoice!)
- Price: R1,1 million (estimated)
- Availability: Late 2025
Type R vs. RS:
- RS: Daily-friendly, tech-packed, fuel-efficient.
- Type R: Track-ready, manual-only, unapologetically loud.
Translation: The RS is for those who want a hint of spice. The Type R? For those who want the whole damn chilli bin.
Who’s It For?
- Young Professionals: You want sporty looks without sacrificing fuel economy (or your budget).
- Tech Lovers: Wireless CarPlay > fiddly touchscreens.
- Die-Hard Honda Fans: The Type R’s coming—patience, grasshopper.
Final Word: Times Are Changing
The Civic RS won’t dethrone the Corolla or outgun the Golf GTI. But in a market obsessed with SUVs and bakkies, it’s a refreshing reminder that sedans can still thrill—without the drama.
Alternatives:
- Value Pick: Corolla XR.
- Power Pick: Golf GTI.
- Underrated All-Rounder: Civic RS.
And for those who still crave a manual? Hold out for the Type R… or buy a used Golf GTI and quit complaining.
Book a Test Drive via Honda SA
Ready to test drive? Follow DriveZA for Type R updates.
