IF the Type-R was a man it would be Ray Winstone.

Not only that, but it would be Ray Winstone wearing knuckle-dusters and brandishing a ruddy big stick.

So hard is this car that a visit to the chiropractor should be part of the MOT for anyone who owns one.

I'm not saying it's wholly a bad thing. It meant I got to use the car to my hearts content, while the wife and kids opted for the relative comfort of the family Zafira.

Honda say they listened to the concerns of both drivers and reviewers when it came to facelifting the Type-R a little while back. Many had pointed out issues with the ride and so the company took these onboard and created a car that was, in their words, both raw and refined.

All I can say is I'm glad I got the big softy version as I fear my spine may have crumbled under the physical assault of the original.

This particular R is the Championship White edition - resplendent in Honda's racing colours with the cars moniker picked out in red.

It's a stunning looker and along with all the usual jiggery-pokery, comes with limited slip differential, enabling the driver to put the power down with more assuredness.

Of course, with almost 200bhp under your right foot, that's all relative, but I suppose it's better to have it than not.

The 2.0 litre VTEC engine is capable of propelling the Type-R to a top speed close to 150mph and it will hit 60mph in 6.6 seconds. That's quick in anyone's book, but in a car as focused as this one is it feels even faster, to the point where the 'Mr Sensible' in me told me to back off.

You do need to work it to get the best out of all of its six gears, but the result is blinding performance and a banshee-like whistle from the twin exhausts.

The space-age look of the Civic still appeals, despite its growing years, and that extends to the look and feel of the interior. Some have been critical of the instrument design, but I love the three-dimensional aspect of them. Sure, they have a tendency to reflect on the glass in the dark, but it's not so bad a problem as to distract you from your driving.

My biggest gripe was with the integrated satellite navigation system which was impossible to view in the daylight, no matter how I tried to alter the brightness.

Vision out of the car is fine, so long as you are looking forward. That's because its almost pointless trying to see whats coming up behind you as the spoiler completely obliterates rear vision.

In all other ways, the Type-R is an every day runabout.

There's enough room for four, though I did have problems getting the drivers seat to remain where I left it, finding my knees jammed up against the steering wheel whenever I got in. And there's a decent amount of boot space which is boosted by a hidden compartment beneath the floor and can be made even greater by lowering the rear seats, which slide easily and neatly forwards to provide a flat load surface.

The Type-R wont be to everyone's liking, but those with a masochistic tendency and a strong back will no doubt love it. Just be sure to pack the Deep Heat for after you've had your fun.

SPEC:

ENGINE: 2.0I VTEC; MAX POWER: 197bhp; MAX TORQUE: 142lb/ft; MAX SPEED: 146mph; 0-60MPH: 6.6secs; AVG FUEL CONSUMPTION: 31.4mpg; EQUIPMENT (includes): Six-speed manual gearbox; 18ins Championship White alloys; 60:40 split folding rear seats; Adaptable boot storage with lid; Alloy gear knob with red stitched leather boot; Aluminium foot rest; Anti-lock braking system (ABS); Automatic headlights with dusk sensor; Central locking; Cruise control; Drilled aluminium sports pedals; Drive By Wire (DBW); Airbags - front and rear; Electric adjustable and heated door mirrors; Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Emergency Brake Assist (EBA); Front electric windows; Front fog lights; Alarm; Leather multi-function steering wheel; Leather wrapped steering wheel with red stitching; Satellite navigation; Bluetooth hands free phone system; Multi-function driver computer; Rain-sensing wipers; Remote keyless entry; Stereo CD tuner with RDS; Twin chrome exhaust; Type R Alcantara sports seats, badge kit, brake callipers, door sill garnish; USB port; Unique interior serial plate; Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)