- Honda launches the facelifted Civic in Japan, including a sporty-looking RS trim.
- The RS features the stock turbo 1.5-liter engine but gets a six-speed manual, rev-matching, and a sportier suspension.
- The updated lineup will be available in Japan from September 2024.
Honda unveiled the facelifted version of the Civic in the Japanese market, including the new RS trim, featuring a sportier suspension setup, rev-matching, and a six-speed manual transmission.
Visually, the Honda Civic RS looks identical to the concept from the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon. The redesigned bumper is applied across the range, but the RS is differentiated from the e:HEV thanks to the special emblems, the darker trim, the black 18-inch wheels, and the functional tailpipes at the back.
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Unlike the US-spec Honda Civic Si which is exclusively available as a sedan, the Japanese Civic RS sports a five-door hatchback bodystyle.
The hot hatch looks can be further accentuated with genuine accessories from the Honda Access catalogue. The highlight is a large wing reminiscent of the Civic Type R, although owners can choose a more discreet ducktail spoiler as an alternative. Other options include aerodynamic bumper extensions and a sporty garnish for the grille and lower bumper intake.
Honda Civic RS
Inside, Honda designers added red inserts on the dashboard and door cards, contrasting with the dark-themed upholstery. More importantly, the Honda Civic RS is the only trim offered in the Japanese market with a six-speed manual gearbox, as the rest of the lineup features a CVT.
The manual is combined with the standard turbocharged 1.5-liter VTEC engine, producing 180 hp (134 kW / 182 PS). The company equipped the Civic RS with a sportier suspension and a rev-matching system, making it more desirable.
The facelifted range of the Honda Civic in Japan also includes the LX and EX trims. These are offered with either the turbo 1.5-liter gasoline engine or the more efficient “Sports e:HEV” self-charging hybrid powertrain.
The market launch of the updated Honda Civic in Japan is scheduled for September 2024. Pricing starts from ¥3,448,500 ($23,150) for the 1.5 VTEC and from ¥3,998,500 ($26,870) for the e:HEV. As for the manual Honda Civic RS, it is priced at ¥4,198,700 ($28,162).
