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. 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.
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. 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
(US$ 23,150) for the 1.5 VTEC and from ¥ 3,998,500 (US$ 26,870) for the e:HEV. As for
the manual Honda Civic RS, it is priced at ¥ 4,198,700 (US$ 28,162).
