Yes, Honda is developing a new V6 engine. The plan was revealed at the company’s Honda Automotive Technology Workshop for electrified models, but it won’t be used in a performance-oriented application. Instead, it’s for the company’s next-generation, large-sized hybrid powertrain.
The brand-new V6 engine will be paired with newly developed drive units, comprising an electric motor and battery pack. Honda says the new hybrid unit is targeted to achieve a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the current internal combustion engine (ICE) models sold in the same large-size segment.
Honda states the new powertrain is engineered to deliver a “high-quality driving experience befitting the large-size HEV [D-segment]” and higher – but don’t get your hopes up, as this next-generation V6 HEV powertrain will most likely feature only on models sold in the North American market rather than the Asia-Pacific market.
Luckily, Honda also unveiled the next-generation mid-size platform, which will underpin future models like the Honda Civic and CR-V. A prototype of this new platform, using a camouflaged Civic as a test mule, was seen running on the track. Its rear facade is visible, but the front remains heavily camouflaged with faux body panels, potentially hiding design and other powertrain details for the next-generation Civic.
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Honda says they’ve reduced the weight of the HEV platform by a significant 90 kg, compared to the current platform, by tweaking the body structure and utilising new engineering design methods.
These new engineering methods include a new approach to body rigidity management, intriguingly with a front end that is designed to flex in the corners (as opposed to the higher rigidity that engineers have been pushing for in recent times), which Honda says enhances driving stability.
Other new technologies being introduced are a Motion Management System and a new pitch control feature. This pitch control will be added to the existing Agile Handling Assist (AHA) system, which is already on the current Honda Accord and Prelude. Altogether, Honda succinctly said the goal of these improvements is to deliver the “joy of driving and excellent fuel economy.”
The new HEV platform could also be cheaper to maintain. Honda stated that the new modular architecture achieves a high percentage of parts commonality across various models, such as the engine compartment and rear underbody. In fact, Honda is aiming for parts commonality of over 60% across all models using this platform, aiming for efficient production with lower costs.
Honda says models using this next-generation mid-size platform, which delivers better driving performance and is cheaper to maintain, will hit the market from 2027 onwards. We just have to be patient and see what the future holds for the company’s hybrid models!
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