11:41 23-04-2026

Honda Civic e:HEV RS Pre-Orders Open: A Hybrid That Mimics a Gearbox

Honda begins pre-orders for the Civic e:HEV RS, featuring the S+ Shift system that simulates gear shifts for a dynamic hybrid driving experience. Launching June 2026.

Honda has started taking pre-orders for the Civic e:HEV RS, set to launch in June 2026. The key highlight of the new model is the Honda S+ Shift system, which mimics a conventional gearbox and gives the hybrid a more engaging character.

The RS version is based on the Civic e:HEV and targets drivers who value a dynamic driving experience. It builds on the 11th-generation Civic introduced in 2021 but focuses on sportiness. The main goal is to eliminate the rubber-band acceleration feel typical of hybrids. To achieve this, Honda has implemented a system that simulates stepped gear shifts, enhancing driver involvement.

The Honda S+ Shift system first debuted on the new Prelude and is now applied to the Civic. It synchronizes the electric motor's operation with engine sound to create the sensation of a traditional transmission during acceleration. Additionally, the Civic e:HEV RS features retuned suspension, sharper steering response, and a sporty D-shaped steering wheel. The engine sound has also been recalibrated to amplify the feeling of a lively car.

The powertrain remains hybrid, so fuel economy stays low, which is a crucial factor for the segment.

The launch of the Civic e:HEV RS highlights a growing trend: manufacturers are bringing emotion back to electrified models. Hybrids and EVs were once criticized for lacking character, but that can now be addressed through software. Against rivals like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid or Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, Honda is banking on not just efficiency but also driving pleasure. This could be a key selling point for buyers unwilling to fully switch to EVs.