- The Civic Type R and Prelude gain the HRC treatment in Tokyo
- Civic eHEV RS Prototype gains Prelude’s S+ Shift tech system.
- Honda SUVs transform into rugged Trailsport HRC concepts.
Updated: This story now includes all the official photos and additional details on Honda’s full lineup for the Tokyo Auto Salon.
Honda is rolling into the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 with a full fleet of concept cars, prototypes, and performance previews. At the heart of its showcase are two new Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) concepts based on the Civic Type R and the reborn Prelude.
Also sharing the spotlight is the Civic e:HEV RS prototype, which brings hybrid tech into sharper focus by pairing it with simulated gear changes designed to evoke the feel of a traditional manual.
More: Honda Has Raised Civic Type R Prices By $4,100 Since 2023 Without Changing A Thing
Beginning with the Civic e:HEV RS, this new prototype builds on the RS trim that launched in Japan last year. That original version served as a sportier take on the Civic hatchback, featuring a sharper chassis setup, a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, and a six-speed manual gearbox.
The e:HEV RS takes a different route, swapping out the combustion drivetrain for a self-charging hybrid system. It also adds Honda’s S+ Shift mode, which aims to deliver a more engaging driving experience despite the absence of a traditional gearbox.
The Civic e:HEV RS was shown in prototype form with a fancy livery, but Honda promised it will join the production lineup in Japan later this year. It will be the second model to use the S+ Shift tech, following the Prelude. This system mimics gear shifts by manipulating RPM, torque delivery, and engine sounds.\
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As for the powertrain, the e:HEV RS will likely use Honda’s standard hybrid setup, combining a 2.0-liter engine with two electric motors to produce a total of 200 hp (149 kW or 203 PS).
Visually, the the hybrid will resemble the ICE-powered version, featuring red RS emblems, dark trim, black 18-inch alloy wheels, and optional aerodynamic add-ons. One notable difference, however, will be the absence of the dual tailpipes at the back.
HRC Concepts
On the performance side of the booth, HRC is back with two new concepts, each based on a familiar nameplate. First up is the Civic Type R, shown in full camouflage and wearing a more aggressive bodykit. Visible tweaks include reshaped front and rear bumpers, extended side skirts, a prominent rear wing, and wider front fenders with integrated air vents.
HRC Concepts And Racecars
While details on performance or handling upgrades remain light, the company claims that the HRC-spec concept “further refines the joy of handling that only Honda can offer, honed at the forefront of racing.” It remains to be seen whether it’s a preview of an even more hardcore Type R, or simply a testbed for new parts.
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Meanwhile, the Prelude HRC Concept will bring its own set of enhancements, billed as upgrades that further explore “the joy of driving.” This builds on optional parts already available from Honda Genuine Accessories and Mugen, though the HRC Performance Parts have pushed the envelope further.
Visually, the coupe looks like it belongs on a track. It gets redesigned bumpers and side skirts with carbon fiber inserts, wider fender flares, a fixed rear wing, and a large rear diffuser. New black alloy wheels round out the look, and the ride height seems noticeably lower than the standard Prelude. Honda hasn’t said whether any powertrain or chassis upgrades have been made.
Rounding out the “Sport Line” lineup is the Honda HRC Prelude GT racecar, which is set to compete in the GT500 class of Japan’s Super GT series starting in 2026. For sim racing fans, Honda will also showcase a new racing simulator based on the retired NSX-GT.
Honda Trailsport HRC Concepts
The other part of the Honda booth in Tokyo is called “Trail Line” and focuses on sporty off-road vehicles. The highlight is the four Trailsport HRC concepts based on its production SUVs, combining rugged and sporty upgrades.
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The CR-V, ZR-V, Vezel, and WR-V are all painted in the same gray shade with black decals, orange accents, and aluminum-style skid plates. They ride on black wheels shod in grippy tires, and feature accessories such as roof rails and protective gear. Judging from their looks and production-ready status, the concepts could easily evolve into flagship trims of the SUVs in the future.
Honda has also brought a US-spec Passport Trailsport Elite in Japan, serving as a “reference model”. The US-built SUV might become available in the Japanese market as part of the ongoing discussions on reverse imports.
Other Exhibits
Visitors at the Tokyo Auto Salon will be able to check out a few more vehicles from Honda. Those include the Super-One prototype, the N-One RS Racing Mate concept, the US-spec Acura Integra Type S, a restored version of the original NSX, and two versions of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP superbike. The show takes place at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture from January 9 to 11.
