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Honda Civic gains Prelude's simulated gearbox tech
Honda has added its S+ Shift system to the Civic hybrid, simulating an eight-speed automatic and engine sound to boost driver engagement. The technology, already used in the Prelude, is standard on Sport and Advance trims.
By Charlotte Redford · 3 min read
Honda has equipped the Civic with the simulated engine and gearbox technology previously seen on the Prelude, aiming to enhance driver engagement in its family hatchback. The system, called S+ Shift, allows the hybrid's electric motor to mimic the behaviour of a traditional combustion engine and automatic gearbox, complete with virtual gear changes and engine sound.
The Civic is a hybrid, and its internal combustion engine primarily generates electricity for a 181bhp electric motor that drives the wheels. The engine only provides direct forward motion under higher loads, such as at motorway speeds. With S+ Shift, the electric motor can now give the impression of behaving like a conventional powertrain, should the driver desire. It simulates the change in sound and performance as revs build, as well as the interruption of power as it shifts through eight virtual gears.
The system is activated by pressing a new S+ button on the centre console. When engaged, the paddles mounted on the back of the steering wheel — normally used to adjust the strength of the electric motor's regenerative braking — can be used to change up or down a gear. Downchanges automatically blip the throttle to match revs for smoother transitions.
S+ Shift will be fitted as standard on the mid-range Sport trim, priced at £34,415 including a £2,500 discount applied until 31 October 2026. The Sport trim also gains an uprated Bose sound system to better deliver the simulated engine noise. The kit is also included in the range-topping Advance grade, priced at £37,495 including the discount.
Honda is not the first manufacturer to introduce such technology. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N was the first EV to offer a simulated combustion powertrain, and Honda has since followed the Korean company's lead, installing it in the Prelude hybrid and the Super-N city car. Other manufacturers using similar systems include Porsche, which will employ it in the next-generation 718 Boxster EV, as well as Kia and Mercedes-AMG.
Although the technology is not yet a perfect match for a physical combustion engine and gearbox, it is pitched as a way of offering a traditional driving experience during the transition to more energy-efficient and lower-polluting hybrid and electric powertrains. The move reflects a broader industry effort to retain driver engagement as cars become increasingly electrified.
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