One of the Honda Prelude’s unique selling features is being made available to the Civic RS e:HEV, and we’re not sure what to think of it.

Just a few months after launching the reborn Prelude, Honda has announced new updates to the Japanese market Civic RS e:HEV, which is set to launch in June. The big news? The Civic is also getting Honda’s patented S+ shift technology, which the Prelude debuted.

This unique feature basically allows the Civic’s single-speed transmission to mimic the behavior of an 8-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox, simulating the torque cuts, RPM, and engine sounds to inject a bit more driving excitement and engagement. 

Likewise, the push-button shifter arrangement has also made its way to the Civic RS e:HEV and a D-shaped steering wheel for good measure. The rest of the car remains unchanged, with the RS in Japan taking the form of a 5-door hatchback instead of a four-door sedan like the Philippine market.

Much like the 6-speed manual RS Turbo in Japan, the RS e:HEV gets stiffer springs, retuned dampers, and a quicker steering ratio for a more driver-oriented character.

The Civic RS e:HEV remains powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with two synchronous electric motors, producing a total system output of 184 PS and 315 Nm of torque.

With the Civic RS e:HEV having a “cheaper” sticker price, only the two-door body style and the Civic Type R-derived suspension and brakes remain as the Prelude’s USP over it. Honda Cars PH has already given a mild update to the CR-V this year, which makes us think the Civic is also set to get updates next. Will the S+ Shift feature be included? Let’s wait and see.