Honda has announced that it will show off a new RS prototype for the Civic e:HEV at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 in early January 2026. No, not the same Road Sailing RS variant that we have here, but rather a dedicated, sportier variant of the sedan.
Honda says the upcoming RS prototype will lean more into its “Sports DNA” philosophy. While our local RS is mostly just a fancy name (and a more stylish body kit) for the range-topping variant, the upcoming prototype to be shown off at the motorshow is designed specifically to showcase the Prelude’s S+ Shift technology, making it the second model ever to feature the technology.
Activated by a large button on the centre console, the S+ Shift system gives the Prelude the gear shift sensations of a normal eight-speed transmission. But in fact, this is just a clever piece of software, as the Prelude’s hybrid powertrain lacks a traditional physical gearbox.
The system utilises its software smarts to vary the power outputs, torque curves, and even throttle response in the different “gears” to give drivers a more engaging driving experience. To add a bit more drama to the experience, the system also pumps synthetic engine noise into the cabin via the Active Sound Control (ASC) system.
While it won’t replicate the thrill of a screaming VTEC engine, the S+ Shift system could add some much-needed character on top of the monotonous e:HEV drone, all while maintaining the powertrain’s fuel efficiency.
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After all, the Honda Civic e:HEV powertrain is essentially the same as the Prelude’s, meaning future Civic e:HEV owners could enjoy a taste of the company’s flagship hybrid experience without the flagship price tag.
Both cars share a 2.0-litre e:HEV hybrid powertrain. This features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, making 141 hp and 182 Nm, that works primarily as a generator, paired with a traction motor that produces 184 hp and 315 Nm. This setup drives the front wheels via an e-CVT direct-drive setup and, in the Civic e:HEV, enables a 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h.
The prototype is not official confirmation that Honda will officially introduce the S+ Shift system into a production Civic e:HEV in the future, but it’s probably as close as it gets. The news also follows Honda’s recent announcement that it is developing a new V6 engine, which will be used in its next-generation large-sized hybrid powertrain for the North American market.
Concurrently, Honda also unveiled a next-generation mid-size platform, which will underpin future models like the Civic and CR-V. This new architecture aims to deliver better driving performance while being cheaper to maintain, and is expected to hit the market from 2027 onwards.
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