2001: Launch year introducing the first UK-built Type R. European specification featured K20A2 engine producing 197 bhp without limited-slip differential, electronic power steering, and grey fabric sport seats. JDM specification received 212-hp K20A engine, helical LSD, red Recaro seats, and Championship White color availability. Initial reception mixed due to departure from EK9 hydraulic steering and LSD configuration. Production began at Swindon facility with original quad-headlamp design and standard equipment including air conditioning, CD player, and alarm system. Base UK pricing started at £16,000.
2002: Continued production with no significant changes. Market feedback highlighted understeer tendency, numb electronic steering feel, and torque curve characteristics favoring high-rpm operation. Honda engineers began development work on comprehensive facelift addressing these concerns while maintaining core specification and pricing strategy. No visual or mechanical modifications during this period.
2003: Final year of pre-facelift production. Market feedback continued to emphasize the need for steering improvements and better low-end torque delivery. Honda finalized development of the comprehensive mid-cycle refresh scheduled for 2004 model year. No changes to specifications, pricing, or equipment levels.
2004: Major mid-cycle facelift introduced approximately 1,500 modifications addressing owner feedback regarding understeer characteristics, numb steering feel, and low-end torque deficiency. Visual changes included three-light projector-style headlamps replacing original quad-lamp design, mirror-mounted turn indicators, redesigned tail-light clusters, revised bumpers, red seat and door panel inserts as standard, and subtle chrome interior accents. Mechanical improvements featured revised Electronic Power Steering with quicker ratio, retuned suspension settings, lightened clutch and flywheel assembly, and additional sound deadening. Changes improved steering response and reduced the notorious on-limit understeer that plagued early examples, though the fundamental front-drive-without-LSD configuration remained divisive among enthusiasts who compared the EP3 unfavorably to the legendary EK9 predecessor's sharp handling and mechanical differential.
2005: Final production year introduced Premier Edition concluding EP3 production with enhanced specification including Recaro Trendline seats, darker rear seat fabric, MOMO steering wheel, red carpet and door linings, "Type R" embossed brake calipers, and privacy glass—available in Milano Red, Nighthawk Black, Cosmic Grey, and Satin Silver with optional air conditioning. Production concluded August 2005 after 35,190 total units across all model years. Replaced by FN2 generation featuring 2.0-liter i-VTEC producing 198 bhp in five-door configuration that continued front-drive Type R tradition through 2010. Premier Edition remains the most collectible EP3 variant alongside Championship White JDM imports.