Honda Civic eHEV RS A Professional Review

Daily Car

24/04/2026

What is the new Honda Civic e:HEV RS?

Honda has introduced a new version of the Civic in Japan, the e:HEV RS. This model combines the sporty appearance of the RS trim with a self-charging hybrid powertrain. It aims to offer a balance of performance-oriented styling and driving feel with the efficiency benefits of a hybrid system.

How does the hybrid powertrain perform?

The vehicle is equipped with Honda's e:HEV hybrid system. This setup uses a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with dual electric motors, producing a combined output of 181 horsepower (135 kW). This is slightly more power than the 180 horsepower produced by the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine found in the non-hybrid, manual transmission RS model.

Is it still engaging to drive for an enthusiast?

Yes, Honda has retained the sporty chassis characteristics of the RS line. The e:HEV RS features stiffer springs, specially retuned dampers, and a quicker steering ratio. These modifications are designed to provide a sharper response and a more driver-focused experience, ensuring the car handles with the agility expected from an RS model despite its hybrid nature.

How does the transmission work without a gear shifter?

The Civic e:HEV RS does not have a traditional manual or automatic gear shifter. Instead, it uses a system called "Honda S+ Shift," first seen on the Prelude concept. By pressing a button, the driver can use paddles on the steering wheel to simulate shifting gears. The system adjusts engine RPM, sound, and torque delivery to mimic the feel of a dual-clutch automatic transmission. When this mode is off, the paddles control the level of regenerative braking.

What are the key design features?

Externally, the e:HEV RS features the aggressive front bumper, red "RS" badges, and blacked-out trim characteristic of the RS line. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels finished in Matte Berlina Black. Inside, the cabin has a dark theme with red contrast stitching on the leather seats and steering wheel, reinforcing its sporty intent. The main difference from the manual RS is the button-based gear selector on the center console.

How is it positioned in the market?

In Japan, the Civic e:HEV RS is priced at ¥4,660,000 (approximately $29,200). This makes it the most expensive model in the Civic lineup, excluding the high-performance Type R. It costs about ¥261,100 ($1,630) more than the non-hybrid RS with a manual transmission, positioning it as a premium, feature-rich option for those wanting both sportiness and hybrid efficiency.

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