THE FAST SHOW

Honda's Civic Type R takes its final bow with the Ultimate Edition. Will it go out on a high against its Audi RS 3 rival?

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HONDA CIVIC TYPE R vs AUDI RS 3

CONTENDERS

Honda Civic Type R

AS a swansong to the Civic Type R, Honda released the Ultimate Edition, which we're driving here. In addition to the Carbon Pack, which includes a carbon-fibre rear wing and interior pieces, it gets red exterior stripes. An Ultimate Edition gift box features a numbered emblem and carbon key ring, plus Type R Keys, floor mats and car cover. Only 40 will be made, with 10 bound for the UK - all of which have sold. It costs £57,905, which is £6,000 more than the standard car.

Audi RS 3

AUDI has gradually tweaked the RS 3's formula since the first-generation model was launched in 2011. But one constant has remained: a 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine under the bonnet.

Despite stricter emissions regulations, it's as potent as ever, pumping out 395bhp and 400Nm of torque. It's not cheap for a five-door hatchback; the base model starts from £62,525. The top-spec Vorsprung trim we're driving costs £71,330 without options.