You may also like:
The 2025 Honda Civic Type R achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined[1]. In real-world driving, owners report averages ranging from 20-24 mpg in mixed conditions, with highway-focused driving yielding 28-30 mpg[2].
Official EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
The 2025 Civic Type R’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque while maintaining reasonable efficiency for a performance hatchback[3]. Honda made slight improvements for 2025, bumping city mileage from 21 to 22 mpg compared to the 2024 model[4].
| Fuel Economy Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| EPA City | 22 mpg[1] |
| EPA Highway | 28 mpg[1] |
| EPA Combined | 24 mpg[1] |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.4 gallons[1] |
| City Range | 272.8 miles[1] |
| Highway Range | 347.2 miles[1] |
| Required Fuel | Premium unleaded (recommended)[1] |
Real-World Fuel Economy From Owners
Owner-reported fuel economy varies significantly based on driving style and conditions. In Car and Driver’s 75-mph highway fuel economy test, the Civic Type R exceeded its EPA highway rating, returning 30 mpg[2]. However, observed mixed driving averaged closer to 20 mpg[2].
Civic Type R owners on forums report the following real-world figures[5]:
- Conservative city driving: 22-24 mpg
- Mixed commuting: 20-24 mpg
- Highway cruising: 28-32 mpg
- Spirited/aggressive driving: 16-20 mpg
- Track use: As low as 7-8 mpg[6]
One owner noted averaging 21 mpg in city driving while “hammering it constantly,” but achieved 30 mpg on freeway trips[5]. The turbocharged engine’s peak torque arrives at just 2,500 rpm, allowing short-shifting in traffic to conserve fuel without bogging the engine[6].
Fuel Economy vs Competitors
The Civic Type R’s fuel efficiency is competitive within the hot hatch segment. While it trails the Volkswagen Golf R on the highway, it matches or beats the Hyundai Elantra N[2].
| Vehicle | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic Type R | 22 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg[1] |
| Hyundai Elantra N (Manual) | 21 mpg | 29 mpg | 24 mpg[7] |
| Volkswagen Golf R (Manual) | 20 mpg | 28 mpg | 23 mpg[8] |
The Golf R’s AWD system contributes to its slightly lower city mileage, while the Elantra N edges ahead on the highway by 1 mpg[7]. All three vehicles require premium fuel and have relatively small tanks, limiting range to under 350 miles per tank[7]. For buyers comparing performance sedans and hatchbacks, see what gas the Civic Type R takes.
Factors That Affect Fuel Economy
Several variables influence actual fuel consumption in the Civic Type R:
Driving Mode
The Type R offers multiple driving modes (Comfort, Sport, +R) that affect throttle response and suspension but do not directly alter fuel maps[2]. However, Sport and +R modes encourage more aggressive driving that increases fuel consumption.
Short Trips vs Highway Cruising
Short commutes where the engine never reaches operating temperature dramatically reduce efficiency. One owner reported just 16 mpg on 5-minute drives to work[5]. Highway cruising at steady speeds can push efficiency above 30 mpg[2].
Traffic Conditions
Stop-and-go city traffic significantly impacts the turbocharged engine’s efficiency. Owners in urban areas consistently report 20-22 mpg averages[5].
Estimated Annual Fuel Costs
Based on EPA data, the 2025 Civic Type R costs approximately $182 per month in fuel (estimated at 15,000 miles annually with current fuel prices)[1]. This translates to roughly $2,184 per year. Compared to a standard Honda Accord or base Civic, this represents nearly three times the fuel expense[7].
For those interested in fuel tank capacity comparisons or exploring EV alternatives, factor in that the Type R’s 12.4-gallon tank limits highway range compared to larger sedans.
Key Takeaways
- EPA ratings: 22 city / 28 highway / 24 combined mpg[1]
- Real-world averages typically range from 20-24 mpg in mixed driving[5]
- Highway cruising can exceed EPA estimates, reaching 30+ mpg[2]
- Fuel economy is competitive with the Elantra N and Golf R[7]
- Premium fuel required; annual fuel cost estimated at $2,184[1]
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Civic Type R require premium gas?
Yes, Honda recommends premium unleaded fuel for the 2025 Civic Type R[1]. Using lower octane fuel may reduce performance and efficiency.
Can I get 30 mpg in a Civic Type R?
How does the Type R compare to the Civic Si fuel economy?
The Civic Si achieves significantly better fuel economy at 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway compared to the Type R’s 22/28 mpg[1]. The Si’s less aggressive tune and lower output (200 hp) contribute to this efficiency advantage.
References
- Edmunds. (2025). 2025 Honda Civic Type R Specs & Features. https://www.edmunds.com/honda/civic/2025/type-r/st-402044272/features-specs/
- Car and Driver. (2025). 2026 Honda Civic Type R Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/honda/civic-type-r
- MotorTrend. (2025). Honda Civic Type R Buyer’s Guide. https://www.motortrend.com/cars/honda/civic-type-r
- Casa Honda. (2025). 2025 Honda Civic Type R: Features, Technology, and MPG Comparison. https://www.casahondanm.com/2025-civic-type-r.html
- Reddit r/Civic_Type_R. (2024). What mpg are you guys getting?
What mpg are you guys getting?
byu/KillaBags inCivic_Type_R - MotorTrend. (2024). 2018 Honda Civic Type R Long-Term Update 1. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2018-honda-civic-type-r-long-term-update-1-review
- AutoWeb. (2024). 2024 Hyundai Elantra N vs. 2024 Honda Civic Type R. https://www.autoweb.com/2024-hyundai-elantra-n-vs-2024-honda-civic-type-r
- iSeeCars. (2023). Hyundai ELANTRA N vs. Volkswagen Golf R. https://www.iseecars.com/compare/hyundai-elantra_n-vs-volkswagen-golf_r
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
