Of course, you’ve likely already seen or read stories about the death of the Honda Civic Type R in Europe. Honda was forced to pull the plug due to increasingly strict vehicle emissions regulations. The Civic Type R currently retails for around £51,000 in the UK; however, in some EU countries, prices have skyrocketed. In the Netherlands, for example, the Civic Type R sells for over €100,000, thanks to the country’s aggressive emissions enforcement and taxation policies targeting high-performance vehicles.

Reluctantly, and with both hands tied behind its back, Honda has decided to discontinue the Type R in Europe. However, it’s expected to return—possibly as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid—in the near future. In the meantime, a defiant Honda has released a final edition of the current-generation Civic Type R: the Ultimate Edition. Only 40 units will be available across the region, alongside the remaining standard models.

Mechanically, nothing has changed. The turbocharged 2.0-litre engine still produces 324 bhp and 420 Nm of torque. Power goes to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, allowing the car to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.4 seconds.

The exterior features unique detailing, with white paint accented by red highlights and a carbon-fibre rear wing. Inside, the cabin gets special trim upgrades, including carbon-fibre elements on the door panels and centre console, unique floor mats, and illuminated door sill projectors that display the Type R logo.

The headline may read “Honda Goes Down Fighting”, but this Type R Ultimate Edition feels more like a defiant squeak than a final battle cry. Either way, prices have yet to be announced, but expect them to sell out quickly.