Honda is setting the stage for a significant shift in its vehicle lineup with two major announcements: a flexible new mid-size platform and a potent V6 hybrid system designed for larger models. These changes are poised to reshape Honda’s offerings, promising improved performance, efficiency, and potentially reshaping their design philosophy.
The debut of the innovative mid-size architecture in 2027 marks a departure from tradition. Crafted using “new engineering design methods,” this platform promises a weight reduction of 90kg compared to its current counterparts – a substantial improvement for vehicles like the Civic, which typically tip the scales between 1300kg and 1460kg.
Crucially, this new platform embraces modularity. While components like engine bays and rear underbodies will be standardized across various models, areas like the passenger cabin will be tailored to specific designs. This approach allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in production.
But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Honda’s new platform lies in its unique design philosophy. Engineers have focused on mimicking the way a car’s body flexes during cornering. By carefully controlling the load distribution across each tire, Honda aims to achieve enhanced roadholding performance and what they describe as a more engaging “joy of driving” experience.
This innovative concept will reportedly be incorporated into future EV platforms as well, including those underpinning models like the small Honda 0 α, the larger Honda 0 SUV, and the Honda 0 Sedan. It’s likely this platform will incorporate technologies like Motion Management System and pitch control to further refine driving dynamics.
Given Honda’s typical six-year vehicle refresh cycle for the Civic (which debuted globally in 2021), it’s highly plausible that the first generation of vehicles built on this new mid-size architecture will arrive as the 12th-generation Civic. Intriguingly, Honda has been testing an elongated and widened version of the current Civic based on this platform, hinting at a possible future evolution for the model.
In parallel with the mid-size platform announcement, Honda also revealed plans to introduce a V6 hybrid powertrain exclusively for its larger vehicles – currently sold mainly in North America and the Middle East. This lineup includes models like the Passport and Pilot SUVs, the Ridgeline pickup truck, and the Odyssey minivan. Currently, these models rely solely on a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine producing 213kW and 355Nm of torque.
While specifics about the new hybrid system remain under wraps, Honda promises a 10 percent improvement in acceleration over the existing gasoline V6 setup. Equally noteworthy is their claim of a 30 percent boost in fuel efficiency – which could potentially translate to a remarkable 7.4L/100km combined fuel consumption for an all-wheel drive Pilot hybrid.
The first application of this new hybrid technology is slated for 2027, likely debuting in either the next-generation Odyssey (launched in 2018) or the updated Ridgeline (first released in 2017). Given these models’ market positioning and Honda’s strategic focus on electrification, it’s conceivable that this hybrid system will pave the way for a wider adoption of electrified powertrains across their larger vehicle range.
While the new mid-size platform is expected to grace Australian showrooms, the V6 hybrid likely won’t make an appearance Down Under anytime soon. Honda Australia has largely steered clear of right-hand drive configurations for its large SUVs and pickups, leaving enthusiasts in this market unlikely to experience this potent new powertrain option.
