Honda's goal is to create fun-to-drive cars and avoid using small hybrid engines if possible. While the e-HEV hybrid system is a marvel of modern technology—ensuring the engine always runs at optimal speeds to maximize power and efficiency—its drawback is that the powertrain often relies on the engine running steadily at a fixed RPM, producing a constant droning sound that becomes tiresome and lacks excitement.
No matter how well the exhaust system is designed, the continuous drone soon becomes annoying to the driver seeking enjoyment behind the wheel. Honda's new S+ Shift technology, debuting first in the 2026 Prelude, addresses this issue on multiple fronts. Although the driving experience is largely simulated, it feels more lively and engaging than the same powertrain in the Civic Hybrid.
Honda's automatic transmission innovation introduces the new S+ Shift powertrain technology, recently tested and stabilized, first used in the New Prelude. The automatic transmission with S+ Shift simulates high-rev engine sounds and rapid gear shifts similar to a dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This means the New Prelude offers a more enjoyable drive. S+ Shift functions like a CVT but uses software to create motor torque interruptions that mimic gear upshifts and downshifts, delivering a faster, more mechanical-feeling automatic transmission experience than a conventional belt-driven CVT, which lacks emotional connection.
A delicate and subjective aspect is the paddle shifters. Honda executives say the paddle shifters and S+ Shift system provide a realistic gear-shifting feel, reminiscent of Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s N Grin Shift feature. Additionally, Honda incorporates synthesized engine sounds during gear changes to enhance the experience.
Honda's S+ Shift allows drivers to simulate up to eight gear speeds through paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel. In reality, the car lacks a true 8-speed transmission and does not perform actual gear shifts, as it is powered primarily by the electric motor (the main motor in the system) and engine combined. The simulated shifting adjusts engine speed and throttle responsiveness along with regenerative braking to mimic gear ratio changes. Furthermore, the Civic adds extra features to heighten realism.
Firstly, the exhaust sound becomes noticeably louder. The Civic RS e-HEV’s tone is less aggressive than the high-performance Civic Type R sport sedan, which shares body and suspension components. However, inside the cabin, the synthesized engine sound is pleasing and satisfying, paired with simulated gear shifts that roar like a genuine racing car.
The behind-the-wheel experience is further enhanced by Virtual Rev-Matching, which simulates throttle blips during gear shifts and quick transitions. Especially in Sport mode, the car delivers jerks and bursts of acceleration akin to a high-performance dual-clutch transmission (DCT) sports car.
While the e-HEV’s fundamental hardware remains a 2.0-liter engine combined with an electric motor, delivering power via an e-CVT system, the vehicle is primarily driven by the electric motor and uses a single-speed direct clutch for high-speed drive. The S+ Shift software simulates the sensation of driving a multi-speed stepped automatic or dual-clutch transmission vehicle.
How Honda S+ Shift Works
S+ Shift does not increase the motor’s maximum output, which remains at 184 horsepower and 315 Newton-meters of torque, but it improves power delivery behavior and provides tactile and auditory feedback. This process involves two main steps:
1. Step Shift Control: Simulating gear shift timing
During accelerator kickdown for overtaking, a typical e-CVT vehicle holds the engine at a high RPM continuously. With S+ Shift active, software commands the engine RPM and motor power to switch in staged intervals, creating a virtual step effect. The result is simulated gear pulls and shift timing that feel like shifting through gears 1 to 4, helping drivers better time power delivery and eliminating the stretched, dull feel of a CVT.
When slowing down or entering corners, lifting off the accelerator or tapping the brake triggers simulated downshifts. The system commands regenerative braking, electric motor, and engine to create a virtual engine brake by raising RPM to hold torque, preparing the driver to accelerate out of the corner immediately without lag.
2. Paddle Shifters & Virtual Tachometer: Driver engagement
In standard e-HEV models, paddle shifters adjust regenerative braking levels. When S+ Shift is enabled, these paddles become virtual gear shifters, allowing the driver to manually shift up or down (+/-) gears.
The digital instrument cluster switches from a Power Meter to a tachometer display, clearly showing virtual gear positions. Simultaneously, Active Sound Control (ASC) produces synthesized engine sounds synchronized with virtual gear shifts inside the cabin.
Although this is purely a simulated system similar to Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s features, it makes the Civic RS e-HEV much more fun and lively to drive, capturing a sporty spirit beyond expectations.