Honda Civic Hybrid gains Prelude’s S+ Shift tech
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Honda’s Civic hybrid hatch has picked up the Prelude’s S+ Shift technology, with the updated 2027 Civic Hybrid LX now on sale in New Zealand at $57,900 plus on-road costs.
First introduced locally with the revived Prelude earlier this year, S+ Shift gives the Civic’s e:HEV powertrain eight virtual ratios, allowing drivers to select simulated gear changes using the steering-wheel paddles.
Those paddles normally adjust regenerative braking. Pressing the S+ button on the centre console switches them to shifting duties, with the hybrid system recreating the throttle response and momentary kick associated with a conventional gear change.
The technology builds on Honda’s Linear Shift Control and uses the traction motor to produce the effect. It monitors accelerator position, braking, vehicle speed, road gradient and battery charge to determine its response.
An enhanced Active Sound Control system works alongside it, matching the engine soundtrack to revs, road speed and driver inputs.
“The Civic has always been a driver’s car, and S+ Shift takes that further,” says Honda New Zealand managing director Carolyn McMahon.
“You get the fuel economy of our e:HEV hybrid on the daily commute. Then, when you find a good stretch of road, you press one button and the whole car feels sharper.”
The Civic pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with Honda’s two-motor e:HEV hybrid system, with the electric drive motor producing 135kW and 315Nm. It charges its battery while driving and doesn’t require plugging in. ECON, NORMAL, SPORT and INDIVIDUAL modes provide further scope to adjust its responses.
New Zealand buyers are offered a single LX grade, with equipment including leather-appointed upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof. Exterior features include revised front and rear Honda badges, LED headlights with high-beam assistance and 18-inch alloy wheels.
A 12-speaker Bose audio system joins Google built-in, providing Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play. There’s also a 10.2-inch driver display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad.
Honda SENSING safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control with Low-Speed Follow, blind-spot information and rear cross-traffic alert.
Five colours are available: Sonic Grey Pearl, Premium Crystal Red, Ocean Blue Pearl, Platinum White Pearl and Crystal Black Pearl. The $57,900 price applies nationwide under Honda’s Price Promise.
Honda lists up to five years’ vehicle warranty, free 24/7 roadside assistance while under warranty, an eight-year/160,000km hybrid battery warranty and three years of free Honda Connect.
