Honda is adding a new variant to its hybrid Civic lineup in Japan. The new Civic RS e:HEV is set to launch in June, it’s only available in hatchback form, and gains a familiar feature—S+ Shift technology.
You’ll probably know the S+ Shift system from its debut in the Prelude. With its inclusion in the hybrid Civic, the system allows the single-speed eCVT to simulate an eight-speed transmission, providing the feeling of rowing through gears both on upshifts and downshifts using accelerator control and paddle shifters.
The powertrain is still comprised of a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with an electric motor delivering 181hp and 315Nm of torque. Other features include sporty suspension from the non-hybrid Civic RS, 18-inch black alloy wheels, and a flat-bottom steering wheel similar to the Prelude.
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Going back to the S+ Shift system, that feature was one of the unique selling points that added to the Prelude’s steep premium. With the addition of S+ Shift to the Civic, the only things missing are brakes and suspension from the Civic Type R to practically make it a four-door version of the hybrid coupe.
The Civic RS e:HEV hatchback will officially launch in Japan in June 2026. There are no announcements to whether S+ Shift will be included in the hybrid Civic sedan in our market, but if it does, would you be interested in it?
