Why the Honda Civic Type R is cool - Introduction

Hot hatches need to be oh-so-much more than the sum of their parts.

This is why cars with fairly low power and performance figures can be supremely cool (Peugeot 205 GTI, anyone?), while more horsepower and style can fall woefully short (Peugeot 206 GTI).

So it's a fine line, and open to debate. However, here's why we think the Civic Type R falls on the chilly side of the cool line.

• To read an in-depth test on the Type R, click here.