In the same vein as BMW’s M, Honda’s Type R nameplate has a lot going for it worldwide. Following the same wolf in sheep’s clothing concept (with the exception of the wild FK8), the latest FL5 generation is a return to form and a huge departure from the boy racer aura generated by the previous 2 iterations. Visually, the FL5 seems to pick up exactly where the much-loved FD2 left off (even almost 20 years later, that thing hasn’t aged). Quick fact: The FD2 was the last true JDM Type R, as subsequent models have been developed for global markets from the ground up.

With the latest Civic, I would have loved to see a new Type R return in sedan form, given that the regular hatchback version isn’t particularly attractive but Honda has clearly done a lot of work to make it worthy of the R badge (no boy racer kits slammed on); instead we’re getting actually re-designed, widened body panels that are inherently integrated into the car. More German than Japanese, this one.

The theme continues inside, where you’re greeted by a very Audi-esque dashboard, with only the red seats, flooring and logo to tell you otherwise. Personally, I wish the dash had more drama, but the ergonomics look great, everything is logically placed, not overrun by screens and therefore still a very conducive environment for the keen driver.

As you can see, what we have under the review lens today is probably the best 1:18 FL5 Type R, by none other than MotorHelix – the fast-rising star in the world of premium diecasts. But in any case, nothing is really perfect in this world, so let’s dive into the review, shall we?

Being at the upper end of the 1:18 market, Motorhelix is asking top dollar for their models, and attempting to add value to the whole package by giving us an external engine, engine stand, a nice little brochure and whatnot. I’ll talk about the actual value factor at the end, but for now, yes, these additions are welcome. So when you pay top dollar, your expectations rise accordingly- and you find yourself benchmarking this model with the other big boys in the neighbourhood – if you’re reading this, then you obviously know the kind of competition there is at this level.

So the interior certainly lives up to expectations, nice soft touch plastics, textured seats (sandblasted surface on seats, door armrests, headliner even) and you get separate pieces for a lot of things- the interior door handles, door armrests, floor mats (yes seriously) and last but not least, that beautiful aluminium trim on the centre console is a real trim attached to the car. Let that sink in for a bit. I’m not sure what it’s made of, but it sure looks and feels great. The metal trim on the dashboard housing the air vents is another fine piece of work – very subtle and tasteful, just like the real thing. This is truly an upper-end interior, then. But perfect? Not quite. I am surprised by all the detail MotorHelix is capable of; they omitted the Type R badges on the headrests and red contrast stitching on door trims and centre armrest. That would’ve definitely sweetened the cabin.

The B pillars are strangely black (they should be in body colour), but I don’t mind because it looks sportier, actually. Elsewhere, you’ll find all the usual labels around the doors, on the sun visor, and engine bay. Additional nice touches include good-looking cabin and trunk lamps, and nice struts at the rear.

Taking a closer look at the exterior- everything is accurately proportioned, and glossy, deep paint is applied all around. You’ll notice separate pieces for the side mirror turn signals, real air vents on the hood and front fenders too. And yes, beautifully perforated grills at the front reveal that prominent intercooler sitting behind. A very pleasing sight.

Tyres are very detailed, with branding, markings are all present. I was too lazy to check if the thread pattern actually follows the real Pilot Sport 4S rubbers – but I won’t be surprised if it does :) No air valves, though. Speaking of wheels, the stance isn’t quite as sharp-looking as the real thing. The wheel sizes look about right, but if you notice, all 4 corners have been intentionally designed with a negative camber (tilt inwards a little). I am a little amused that MotorHelix has ‘flavoured’ the car this way (in real life, it helps on the track), but I doubt the factory actually builds the FL5s like this. So some may like it, but I would prefer it to look stock.

Now, let’s get to the climax of this model – I intentionally saved it for last. The engine! (2.0 inline 4 turbocharged VTEC). The reason why I was willing to part with a significant amount of dough.

Yes, it may not instantly appear as glorious as a longitudinal unit, but look again and you’ll notice there’s actually quite a lot going on in that compact engine bay. Plenty of layers and depth to satisfy your craving for details – and really, they’ve done an excellent job here. The gradients, textures, fit and finish are as good as it gets in this scale. Comparing this with the external engine unit, no corners have been cut under the hood. It’s as if they’ve actually plonked that external unit into the car and hooked it up with more pipes and wires.

And being an internal combustion machine, you are treated to further excitement underneath. The underbody is beautifully done, and it even says ‘crafted in China’ there. Yes, you can feel the passion and care the team has put into this.

So, what do I think about the value factor here? Now benchmarking the car itself purely on quality and details, I think LCD would be the most direct rival. And without the accessories, this should cost no more than, say, the LCD Supra. But they have put good effort into that engine, and I can’t deny it’s just really cool displayed. Years ago, I saw their R34 (with the engine) and that was a show stopper too.

But here’s the thing- the premium you’re paying for the additional engine (and stand) only makes sense if it’s a sexy engine. And that means the diecast has to be that of a sporty car/ or supercar. So in a way, they’re limiting themselves here. And beyond that, what will they do if it’s an EV diecast?

So here’s what I’m thinking – and MotorHelix, if you’re reading: the bundled engine is an interesting concept, but perhaps reserve this for a ‘premium’ line of sporty combustion engine cars and continue charging what you’re charging now, there will be takers. Then ideally, also have a ‘standard line’ without the bundle, without the brochures etc – this would allow a much wider range of high quality models we expect of you, but with prices to rival LCD & Minichamps. Now that would make sense long term. I guess.