Discover the 2026 Honda Civic e:HEV RS, a hybrid sedan featuring the new S+ Shift system that mimics a sporty manual feel. Learn more now!
The Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, held from January 9‑11, has become the showcase for Honda’s most ambitious concepts yet. Among the line‑up, the spotlight shines on the newly unveiled Honda Civic e:HEV RS, a hybrid sedan that blends cutting‑edge efficiency with a genuinely sporty driving experience.
S+ Shift: A Manual Feel Without a Traditional Gearbox
Building on the S+ Shift system first introduced on the recent Prelude, the e:HEV RS simulates gear changes by adjusting engine revs, torque distribution, and even exhaust tone. Drivers hear and feel each “shift” as the hybrid powertrain re‑maps its output, delivering a tactile, engaging experience while retaining the smoothness of a CVT.
Powertrain Highlights
Unlike the original Japanese‑market Civic RS, which paired a 1.5‑litre turbocharged gasoline engine with a six‑speed manual, the e:HEV RS adopts Honda’s standard hybrid architecture:
- 2.0‑litre Atkinson‑cycle engine
- Two electric motors
- Combined output of roughly 200 hp (150 kW)
- Self‑charging hybrid system – no plug‑in required
While still a prototype, the powertrain signals Honda’s intention to bring a high‑performance hybrid sedan into mass production, positioning it as the second model to feature S+ Shift after the Prelude.
Design Cues and Exterior Styling
The concept retains many visual elements of the current RS trim. Expect a bold red “Civic” badge, dark‑tone accents, and optional aerodynamic components. Standard wheels are 18‑inch black‑finished alloy rims, and the car will forego the dual‑exhaust pipes found on the gasoline‑only RS, underscoring its electric‑assisted nature.
Market Outlook
If Honda decides to roll out the e:HEV RS to markets such as Vietnam, the blend of hybrid efficiency and sport‑inspired shifting could win over both eco‑conscious buyers and enthusiasts who crave a more engaging sedan in the competitive C‑segment.
What’s Next?
Upcoming details from the Tokyo Auto Salon will reveal interior nuances, pricing, and launch timelines. For now, the Civic e:HEV RS stands as a compelling glimpse of how Honda plans to marry sustainability with driving excitement.