An update for the Honda Civic e:HEV hybrid in New Zealand brings the maker's "S+ Shift" feature to the hatchback for the first time.
S+ Shift was first seen on the new Prelude coupe. It's a virtual 8-speed transmission that aims to help the continuously variable transmission mimic the character of a traditional automatic gearshift.
S+ Shift uses the hybrid powertrain's traction motor to recreate both the throttle response and the "kick" felt during a gearchange in a manual car.
To get each change right, it monitors a range of inputs including throttle pedal angle, brake operation, vehicle speed, road gradient and battery state of charge.
So it's a bit more sophisticated than a fake sound. But there's fake sound too. Active Sound Control combines an engine note with revs and road speed, responding to the driver's input.
The change comes for the "2027" model, which is on sale now. Honda NZ has also aligned the model name of the single-specification with the upgraded HR-V SUV: it changes from SR to LX, the same as the luxury-oriented HR-V model. There's also been a slight price reduction, from $59,000 for the outgoing Civic SR to $57,900 for the new LX.
Meanwhile, the Prelude has gained a Bordeaux Edition, which is finished in Premium Crystal Garnet Red on the outside and features red accents on the inside.
So yes, just the colour. The Prelude Bordeaux Edition is also on sale from today, October 15, and is priced at $72,490, a $2500 premium over the standard Prelude... which comes in red, white, grey, blue and black.
The same car is being offered in Europe as the "Prelude 2027 Limited Edition".
