The 2022 Honda Civic Type R (FL5) continues its ASEAN journey after its regional debut in Vietnam, this time launched in Thailand. Prices are not out at point of publication; though estimates point it to be north of THB 3.8 million – roughly equivalent to an eye-watering RM 478k!

Fully-imported (CBU) from Japan, the FL5 makes history as its the first time the Civic Type R is officially sold there; much the same with Vietnam which was the first ASEAN country to debut the model.

Also read: Priced from an eye-watering RM 470k! Vietnam is first in Asia Pacific to launch FL5 2023 Honda Civic Type R

Competition's tough (the Thai International Motor Expo also welcomed the Toyota GR Corolla, but at THB 3,949,000 this Civic is around 4 percent cheaper), but the Type R should have the numbers to back it up a bit. After all, it is the most powerful Type R ever.

The K20C 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine under the vented hood makes 330 PS and 420 Nm, with all of that transferred to its traditional front-wheel drive via 6-speed manual transmission.

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A limited slip differential (LSD), Brembo brakes, and sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres around 19-inch wheels shall help with the rest of the performance chops.

Other than that, the hot hatch comes with red-and-black perforated suede interior upholstery, signature metal gear knob, and a digital instrument screen that displays all manner of data, from lap times to car condition.

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8 airbags, including knee airbags for both front passengers plus the full suite of Honda Sensing advanced driving aids are part and parcel of the model.

Closer to home, there is a good chance of this model being offered by Honda Malaysia as we've been getting Type Rs since 2007's FD2R. Naturally it won't come cheap; when the FK8 Type R was last sold here, prices began from RM 330k.

A circa RM 350k starting price for the FL5 Civic Type R in Malaysia is likely.