Honda's Latest Civic RS Prototype Is a Hybrid That Allows You to Simulate Gear Shifting | Carscoops

      The current Civic RS features a combustion engine and a manual transmission, but Honda is developing a hybrid version.

      8 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The Civic eHEV RS Prototype incorporates the Prelude’s S+ Shift technology.

      It will be unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon and may enter production.

      Concepts for the Civic Type R and Prelude HRC will also be featured.

      Honda is set to showcase a variety of concepts and prototypes at the upcoming 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon. Highlighting the event are two concepts from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), based on the Civic Type R and the new Prelude. Additionally, the Civic e:HEV RS prototype will be on display, blending hybrid technology with simulated gear shifts.

      Starting with the Civic e:HEV RS, this new prototype builds upon the RS trim that debuted in Japan last year. The initial version was a sportier iteration of the Civic hatchback, boasting a sharper chassis setup, a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, and a six-speed manual transmission.

      The e:HEV RS takes a different approach, replacing the combustion engine with a self-charging hybrid system. It also features Honda’s S+ Shift mode, designed to provide a more engaging driving experience even without a conventional gearbox.

      The Civic e:HEV RS remains in its prototype stage, but its existence indicates that Honda might be considering a production version. If approved, it would become the second model to incorporate the S+ Shift technology, following the Prelude. This system replicates gear shifts by adjusting RPM, torque delivery, and engine sounds.

      Regarding the powertrain, the e:HEV RS is expected to utilize Honda’s standard hybrid configuration, which combines a 2.0-liter engine with two electric motors for a total output of 200 hp (149 kW or 203 PS).

      While Honda has yet to release official images, the prototype is anticipated to resemble the current RS model, featuring red badges, dark accents, black 18-inch alloy wheels, and possible aerodynamic enhancements. A significant distinction will be the lack of dual tailpipes present on the gasoline variant.

      Honda Racing Corporation Concepts

      On the performance front, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) is introducing two new concepts. Although details are scarce, they are likely to follow the design of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype from 2024, with visual adjustments and chassis modifications geared towards track performance.

      The Civic Type R HRC Concept is particularly positioned as the pinnacle of pure sports performance. It remains uncertain if this will lead to a more powerful Type R or if it will merely serve as a testing ground for new components, but it certainly adds excitement to the lineup.

      In addition, the Prelude HRC Concept will present its own enhancements, marketed as upgrades that further explore "the joy of driving." This builds off the optional parts currently available from Honda Genuine Accessories and Mugen, with HRC expected to enhance this even further.

      Completing the lineup is the Honda HRC Prelude-GT race car, which is set to compete in the GT500 class of Japan’s Super GT series beginning in 2026. For sim racing enthusiasts, Honda will also reveal a new racing simulator based on the retired NSX-GT.

      In the official teaser for Honda's exhibit, 14 cars and two motorcycles were counted, hinting at additional surprises.

      The Tokyo Auto Salon will take place at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture from January 9 to 11, with Honda’s press conference scheduled for January 8 at 8:30 PM EST. More information will be provided as the event approaches.