Honda is set to unveil a remarkable lineup of concept and prototype vehicles at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Show.

The centerpiece of this year’s exhibit is the seamless fusion of electrification and pure driving pleasure, epitomized by the Civic e:HEV RS prototype. This bold move by the Japanese automaker aims to recreate the visceral experience of a manual transmission within a modern hybrid powertrain.

The new Civic e:HEV RS builds upon the existing RS manual variant available in Japan. However, it ditches the traditional 1.5L turbo engine in favor of a self-charging e:HEV hybrid system. To compensate for the absence of a physical gearshift, Honda introduces the exclusive S+ Shift technology. This innovation simulates gear shifts by manipulating engine RPM, torque, and sound, promising an engaging drive for enthusiasts seeking both interaction and fuel efficiency.

Technically, the Civic e:HEV RS is expected to feature a 2.0L engine paired with dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 200 horsepower. While official images remain unreleased, the model is anticipated to sport a sporty aesthetic, highlighted by a red RS badge, glossy black exterior accents, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The most notable exterior change is the absence of dual exhaust tips, replaced by a sleek, aerodynamic design characteristic of electrified vehicles.

Alongside the Civic e:HEV RS, Honda’s high-performance division, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), will showcase two concepts derived from the Civic Type R and Prelude. The Civic Type R HRC Concept is poised to represent the pinnacle of track-focused performance, emphasizing chassis and aerodynamic enhancements. Meanwhile, the Prelude HRC Concept explores the “joy of driving” through high-performance upgrades that surpass standard Mugen or Honda Genuine accessories.

Completing Honda’s Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 showcase is the Honda HRC Prelude-GT race car, slated to compete in Japan’s Super GT GT500 class starting in 2026. Additionally, Honda will debut a new racing simulator based on the retired NSX-GT, catering to the sim racing community.

The 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon will take place at Makuhari Messe, Chiba Prefecture, from January 9 to 11. With 14 automotive and two motorcycle models teased, Honda hints at further surprises, ensuring an exciting event for both mainstream and performance-oriented enthusiasts.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)

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