The FK2 Civic Type R is powered by the K20C1 Direct Fuel Injection 1,996 cc (2.0 L; 121.8 cu in) turbocharged Inline-four engine with Earth Dreams Technology, having a power output of 310 PS (228 kW; 306 hp) at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 2,500–4,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with a factory equipped plate-style limited-slip differential. Honda claimed that the Type R can accelerate from 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.7 seconds. The engine is manufactured at Honda's Anna Engine Plant in Ohio before being exported to the UK.

he FK8 Civic Type R uses the same engine, a turbocharged inline-4, from its predecessor but power has increased to 320 PS (235 kW; 316 hp) in the European and Japanese version but remains the same 310 PS (228 kW; 306 hp) in other markets. The engine is mated to a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission continuing the tradition of its predecessors with limited-slip differential as standard. The aerodynamic elements increase downforce even further as compared to the outgoing model. The FK8 has a top speed of 272 km/h (169 mph) making it the fastest Civic Type R model to date.

In back-to-back testing involving an FK8 and FK2 Type R, the reviewers praised the FK8's comfortable ride and feedback and criticised the FK2's harsh ride on the road and worse handling when the R+ driving mode was activated. The reviewers also complained about the FK2's interior being dated but stated that this was due to the model's late arrival at the end of the base model's production run.