Honda Civic RS will become a hybrid for the first time

Honda is preparing a new Civic RS version that, for the first time in the model’s history, will feature a hybrid powertrain. The premiere is expected at the Tokyo Motor Show 2026. With this move, the brand is betting on a combination of sporty character and reduced emissions, reflecting Honda’s broader strategy of electrification without abandoning driver-focused models.

According to preliminary information, the Civic RS will use Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system, already familiar from other models in the lineup. In this setup, the internal combustion engine works together with electric motors, delivering strong response at low RPM and more consistent torque during acceleration—key attributes for a sporty version. Exact power figures have not yet been disclosed, but the model is expected to remain competitive in terms of performance within its class.

Special attention has been paid to handling. The Civic RS is expected to receive revised suspension, steering, and braking systems. Honda has also announced the S+ Shift feature, which simulates gear changes via steering-wheel paddles. This solution is designed to preserve an engaging driving experience despite the absence of a traditional gearbox.

Visually, the Civic RS will stand out with sportier design elements, larger wheels, and a reworked interior emphasizing the model’s dynamic character. The hybrid Civic RS will become an important test for Honda, as the model must prove that switching to hybrid technology does not mean losing its sporty identity.