Honda, Acura Unveil Next-Generation Hybrid Models

What Car Shoppers Need to Know

• Honda unveiled prototype versions of two new next-generation hybrid models at a global business briefing in Japan.
• The company plans to introduce 15 new Acura and Honda hybrid models by 2030, predominantly in the North American market.
• Honda’s pivot toward hybrid models comes in the wake of its cancellation of its internally developed, U.S.-built electric-vehicle program late in the development process.

At a global Honda business briefing in Japan, the company unveiled prototype versions of two new next-generation hybrid models — the Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype and the Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype. Honda says it will be launching models featuring an all-new hybrid powertrain and next-generation platform starting in 2027 and plans to introduce 15 new Acura and Honda hybrid models by 2030, with the bulk of those slated for North America. Those plans include the introduction of mid-size-plus “D-Segment” hybrid models (similar in size to the three-row Acura MDX and Honda Pilot and two-row Honda Passport SUVs) in 2029.

Related: Honda Axes New EVs Before Launch, Blames Waning Interest and Policy Shifts

Honda’s pivot toward hybrid vehicles comes in the wake of the company’s high-profile cancellation of its in-house electric-vehicle program late in the development process; those EVs had been set to go on sale in late 2026 or sometime in 2027.

Honda traditionally unveils concept “Prototype” versions of soon-to-arrive production vehicles that are typically close to what ends up on the showroom floor. No specific details or dimensions were given for either of these hybrid prototype vehicles, and their bland, strictly descriptive titles give no hint of what the forthcoming production versions might be named. Even so, we can draw some conclusions from the photos.

Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype: Next-Generation ADX?

The Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype looks to be a natural evolution of Acura’s signature styling cues, and it appears to be roughly the size of the Acura ADX subcompact SUV, with a similar overall profile. We also see flush door handles that may or may not have electric latches. The ADX shares its basic platform with the Honda HR-V subcompact SUV, so it’s a safe bet that there’s a Honda version of this hybrid SUV coming, too.

Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype: An Upsized Fastback Accord?

The Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype is more of a departure from current-production Hondas. Though it’s not as radical as the stillborn Honda 0 Series Saloon concept, it’s more rakish and sharply styled than any current-production Honda. The Sedan Prototype appears to be slightly larger than the current Honda Accord, with a fastback roofline that indicates it’s a liftgate hatchback rather than a traditional sedan with a trunk.

Again, Honda revealed no specific details on dimensions for either prototype vehicle but did say it aims to improve the fuel economy of its next-generation hybrid models by more than 10% and that the system will offer a newly developed electric all-wheel-drive unit.

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