Tag Archives: North America

Honda Civic Type R HRC Concept Debuts in North America at SEMA 2026

Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) is bringing its motorsport expertise to the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where the Civic Type R HRC Concept will make its North American debut alongside 11 other racing machines. The showcase will also introduce HRC’s first performance parts lineup for Honda and Acura production models, while highlighting the company’s expanding ambitions in hybrid racing technology and off-road competition.

Honda is preparing a major motorsport-themed presence at the 2026 SEMA Show, scheduled to take place in Las Vegas from November 3 to 6. Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) will bring a collection of 12 racing machines, special vehicle builds and championship-winning motorcycles, offering visitors a closer look at the technology, engineering and competition heritage behind the Japanese manufacturer’s racing activities.

Among the biggest attractions will be the Honda Civic Type R HRC Concept, which will make its North American debut following its first public appearance at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon. Honda has also confirmed that the concept is being developed specifically with the U.S. market in mind, potentially opening the door to a more performance-focused evolution of its already accomplished hot hatch.

Developed using HRC technologies and knowledge gained from professional racing drivers, the Civic Type R HRC Concept aims to take Honda’s familiar driving experience a step further. The project reflects the company’s philosophy of transferring lessons learned in motorsport directly into road-going vehicles.

Founded in 1982, Honda Racing Corporation has played a central role in Honda’s motorsport success across multiple disciplines. From Formula One and IndyCar to endurance racing, touring cars and motocross, HRC has helped establish Honda as one of the most successful manufacturers in international competition.

The 2026 SEMA Show will also mark an important commercial milestone for the organization, with HRC introducing its first dedicated performance parts range for Honda and Acura production vehicles. For the first time, visitors will also be able to purchase official HRC merchandise directly from the company’s exhibition stand.

Honda Passport Baja Spec: A 1,300-HP Hybrid Trophy Truck

One of the most extraordinary vehicles making its public debut at SEMA will be the Honda Passport Baja Spec Trophy Truck. Developed by HRC in collaboration with Mason Motorsports, the machine represents a new approach to high-performance desert racing and is set to become the first hybrid-powered Trophy Truck to compete in the SCORE World Desert Championship.

Honda has teamed up with two-time Baja 1000 winner Bryce Menzies and Menzies Motorsports, with the ambitious goal of challenging for overall victory in the legendary desert race.

The Passport Baja Spec combines a 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine with an 800-volt hybrid architecture, producing more than 1,300 horsepower. That figure puts it ahead of the massive 9.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engines commonly found in today’s leading Trophy Trucks.

Beyond its impressive powertrain, the project incorporates technologies developed through Honda’s global racing programs, including IMSA, IndyCar and Formula One. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been used to optimize aerodynamic performance, while advanced vehicle software and electrification technologies are intended to push the capabilities of desert racing machinery further.

The Baja Spec is more than an engineering exercise. It represents Honda’s intention to demonstrate how hybrid technology can deliver competitive advantages in some of the most demanding motorsport environments.

2027 Honda Passport TrailSport Baja Chase Vehicles

Supporting the new Trophy Truck will be three specially prepared 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport Baja Chase vehicles, developed by HRC to provide essential assistance during competition.

Designed to operate across the challenging terrain of the Baja desert, these SUVs will handle race-day communications, pit-stop support and crew transportation.

Their modifications include a Borla exhaust system, HRC-developed dampers, forged aluminum performance wheels manufactured by Titan7, an auxiliary power system, a dedicated trunk storage drawer system and a platform roof rack.

Although these vehicles are primarily designed for practical race support, their upgraded hardware demonstrates how Honda intends to combine TrailSport’s off-road capabilities with HRC’s motorsport engineering experience.

Hasport Prelude Club Racer: A Turbocharged Track Special

Another interesting project at the Honda stand will be the Hasport Prelude Club Racer, developed by Hasport Performance, one of the largest manufacturers of Honda and Acura engine-swap components.

Created specifically for time-attack competition, the Prelude combines the chassis of the latest-generation Honda Prelude with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and six-speed manual transmission sourced from the Civic Type R.

The build also features a custom Borla exhaust system, suspension tuning inspired by the Integra Type S TCX race car and a special exterior livery paying tribute to the legendary Hasport Prelude Circuit Monster.

The result is a track-focused interpretation of Honda’s latest sports coupe, bringing together modern engineering and the aftermarket tuning culture that has surrounded the Prelude name for decades.

Aston Martin Aramco Formula One AMR26

Formula One will also have a prominent presence at the exhibition, with the 2026 Aston Martin Aramco Racing AMR26 on display.

The 2026 season represents a major turning point for the championship, introducing one of the most significant technical regulation changes in recent F1 history. It also marks the beginning of Honda’s works powertrain partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team.

At the heart of the AMR26 is the Honda RA626H power unit, featuring a 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine combined with advanced electrification technologies.

The partnership represents another important chapter in Honda’s Formula One history, with HRC once again taking responsibility for developing technology capable of competing at the highest level of international motorsport.

Felix Rosenqvist’s 2026 Indianapolis 500-Winning IndyCar

IndyCar fans will have the opportunity to see the actual Honda-powered machine driven by Felix Rosenqvist to victory in the 2026 Indianapolis 500.

The car is powered by a 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid power unit developed by HRC. Honda enjoyed a particularly successful 2026 IndyCar campaign, collecting the drivers’ and manufacturers’ championships, Rookie of the Year honors and victory in the Indianapolis 500.

The presence of Rosenqvist’s winning car underlines the importance of HRC’s American racing operations and the continued development of Honda’s hybrid competition technology.

Acura ARX-06 GTP: Celebrating an Endurance Racing Legacy

Acura will be represented by its ARX-06 GTP prototype, displayed in a special Thank You livery following its participation in the 2026 Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta.

The electrified endurance racer continues a successful tradition of Acura prototype competition dating back to 1991.

The special livery celebrates the achievements of Acura and HRC US in North American sports car racing. Their combined record includes 14 team, driver and manufacturer championships, 33 victories and 43 pole positions.

Acura has also achieved overall victories in all four of North America’s major sports car endurance races, including three wins at the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Honda Civic Type R TCR: Touring Car Competition

The latest Honda Civic Type R FL5 TCR will also be part of the SEMA display.

Developed by HRC US in cooperation with J.A.S. Motorsport, the race car is based on the latest production Civic Type R and engineered for IMSA competition in North America.

The No. 5 KMW Motorsports Coral Springs Honda Civic Type R TCR is driven by Rocco Pasquarella and Tim Lewis in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge.

The team secured a victory at Watkins Glen during the 2026 season, contributing to Honda’s second-place finish in the final manufacturers’ standings.

HRC Heritage Racing: Legendary Acura and Honda Competition Cars

Honda’s SEMA presentation will also celebrate its motorsport heritage with several historically significant machines.

Among them is the 2009 Acura ARX-02a Patrón, the manufacturer’s second Le Mans Prototype. Competing in the premier LMP1 category of the American Le Mans Series, the V8-powered prototype was driven by David Brabham, Scott Sharp and Dario Franchitti.

The ARX-02a secured three victories and five additional podium finishes, helping Acura win both the LMP1 Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ Championships. Its sister car, entered by de Ferran Motorsports, also enjoyed considerable success, with the two machines combining for eight victories across the 10-race season.

The vehicle is available for purchase and restoration through the HRC Heritage Racing Program.

Another highlight will be the 2017 Acura NSX GT3 No. 93, restored by HRC’s heritage division and presented in its distinctive Lady Liberty livery.

Based on chassis No. 5, this particular NSX GT3 is the most successful example of the model, accumulating 38 class victories across IMSA and SRO competition between 2017 and 2023. Its achievements also include two manufacturers’ championships, five drivers’ titles and four teams’ championships.

The car is also available for purchase through the HRC Heritage Racing Program.

Perhaps the most unusual historic vehicle on display will be the 1969 Honda N600 Baja. With just 35 horsepower, the tiny model became the first automobile ever raced by American Honda.

It competed in the 1970 Baja 1000, driven by desert racing pioneers Dave Ekins and Bill Robertson Jr. More than five decades later, the little N600 remains an important part of Honda’s American motorsport story.

HRC Performance Parts: Racing Technology for Honda and Acura Road Cars

Beyond the impressive collection of racing machines, one of the most important announcements at SEMA 2026 will be the introduction of HRC’s first dedicated performance parts range.

Developed by championship-winning HRC engineers, the initial product lineup will include lightweight forged wheels, performance exhaust systems and a short-throw shifter.

The components are intended for selected Honda and Acura production models, including the Civic Type R, Integra Type S and Passport TrailSport.

Before reaching customers, the parts will undergo extensive performance and durability testing, including evaluation at Germany’s legendary Nürburgring circuit.

Honda plans to begin offering HRC Performance Parts through its authorized dealerships across the United States and the Honda DreamShop online platform from March 2027.

The company also plans to expand the range over time, with several future components scheduled to appear as prototypes at SEMA. These include adjustable coilover suspension systems with camber plates and a high-performance Brembo braking package featuring six-piston calipers.

For Honda enthusiasts, the development represents an important step in bringing genuine factory-backed motorsport components to the aftermarket performance scene.

Source: Honda

Acura Announces Three New SUVs for North America, Including an 8-Passenger Flagship and RDX Hybrid for 2028

Acura is preparing a major expansion of its North American lineup, with three new SUVs planned as part of a long-term strategy to attract new customers, strengthen brand loyalty and compete more aggressively in the premium automotive market. The upcoming models will include an adventure-focused SUV arriving in early 2028, an all-new eight-passenger SUV positioned above the MDX, and the fourth-generation Acura RDX Hybrid, also scheduled to arrive in 2028.

The announcement signals a significant shift in Acura’s product strategy as the premium brand looks to capitalise on continued demand for SUVs, family-oriented vehicles and more efficient powertrains. Alongside the three new models, Acura is developing a new V6 hybrid powertrain for its D-segment vehicles, promising a combination of sporty performance, improved towing capability and greater environmental efficiency.

The expansion will complement the existing Acura ADX, MDX and Integra, giving the brand a broader portfolio designed to appeal to customers at different stages of life.

Acura Plans Three New SUVs by 2028 and Beyond

Acura has outlined its future product roadmap to its U.S. dealer network, confirming plans to enter additional SUV segments while improving the competitiveness of its existing vehicles.

The first new model is an adventure-ready SUV expected in the first half of 2028. Designed for customers with active lifestyles, it will combine enhanced capability for outdoor activities with premium styling, modern technology and the comfort expected from the Acura brand.

Acura has not yet revealed the vehicle’s name, technical specifications or pricing. Details such as its powertrain, ground clearance, all-wheel-drive system and off-road equipment remain unconfirmed.

The second new SUV will be Acura’s largest vehicle to date. Designed to accommodate eight passengers, it will sit above the seven-passenger MDX and target families seeking additional interior space in the premium segment. The model remains under development, with no confirmed launch date or detailed specifications announced.

The third major introduction will be the fourth-generation Acura RDX, which the company has previously confirmed will arrive in 2028 with a hybrid powertrain. The new RDX will become the first Acura model to use the brand’s two-motor hybrid technology, marking an important step in the company’s electrification strategy.

Together, these vehicles will expand Acura’s presence across several important SUV categories, from adventure-oriented models to large family vehicles and premium hybrid crossovers.

New Acura Adventure SUV Targets Outdoor Enthusiasts

One of the most intriguing additions to Acura’s future lineup is the new adventure-ready SUV scheduled to arrive in early 2028.

The vehicle is expected to appeal to buyers who want the practicality and versatility of an SUV capable of supporting outdoor activities without sacrificing premium design, comfort or modern technology.

Acura has yet to disclose whether the model will feature a conventional combustion engine, a hybrid powertrain or another electrified configuration. It has also not confirmed whether the vehicle will be based on an existing Honda or Acura platform.

The timing is significant, as adventure-oriented SUVs have become an increasingly important part of the North American market. Buyers are looking for vehicles that combine everyday usability with the ability to accommodate camping equipment, recreational gear and weekend travel.

For Acura, the challenge will be to deliver genuine capability while maintaining the refinement, driving experience and technology expected from a premium brand.

The new SUV could also help Acura attract customers who might otherwise consider more rugged offerings from established competitors. However, its eventual positioning will depend on the specifications, pricing and equipment Acura reveals closer to launch.

Acura’s Largest SUV Will Seat Eight Passengers

Acura is also developing a new flagship SUV designed to accommodate eight passengers, making it the largest vehicle in the company’s history.

The upcoming model will sit above the Acura MDX, which currently serves as the brand’s principal three-row luxury SUV. By offering additional passenger capacity, Acura aims to reach larger families and customers who need more interior flexibility.

The eight-passenger SUV will enter a competitive segment that includes large premium vehicles from brands such as Cadillac, Lincoln and Infiniti. These models appeal to buyers who prioritise spacious cabins, family-friendly features, comfort and the ability to carry several passengers on long journeys.

Acura has not released information about the new SUV’s exterior dimensions, cargo capacity, engine options or expected price. It is also too early to confirm whether the model will use a conventional V6 engine or an electrified powertrain.

Nevertheless, the vehicle’s positioning above the MDX makes its role in Acura’s future lineup clear: it will broaden the brand’s appeal to customers who require more space than a conventional three-row luxury SUV can provide.

The new model could become an important addition to Acura’s portfolio, particularly if the company combines its larger dimensions with competitive pricing and a strong emphasis on family-oriented technology.

2028 Acura RDX Hybrid Will Introduce Two-Motor Technology

The next-generation Acura RDX is another major element of the brand’s future product strategy.

Acura has confirmed that the fourth-generation RDX will arrive in 2028 and become its first production model to feature the company’s two-motor hybrid technology.

The current RDX occupies an important position in the premium compact SUV segment, where buyers increasingly expect a combination of performance, efficiency, advanced driver assistance systems and everyday practicality.

Introducing hybrid technology could help the next-generation RDX deliver improved fuel economy while preserving the responsive driving character associated with Acura.

Although the manufacturer has not announced power output, fuel-consumption figures or detailed mechanical specifications for the new RDX Hybrid, the two-motor configuration signals a more substantial electrification effort than simply adding a mild-hybrid system.

The new model will also give Acura an opportunity to strengthen its position against established premium competitors offering hybrid SUVs, including Lexus.

More technical information is expected as the vehicle approaches its planned 2028 introduction.

Acura Developing a New V6 Hybrid Powertrain

Beyond its new SUV models, Acura is developing a V6 hybrid powertrain intended for its D-segment vehicles.

According to the company, the system will combine sporty performance with improved towing capability and greater environmental efficiency.

The development of a V6 hybrid is particularly relevant for larger SUVs and vehicles that need substantial torque for acceleration, carrying passengers and towing trailers. Electric assistance can provide additional low-speed response, while hybrid energy management can reduce fuel consumption under suitable driving conditions.

Acura has not yet disclosed the engine’s displacement, combined system output, battery capacity or fuel-economy targets. It has also not confirmed which specific models will receive the new powertrain first.

The announcement nevertheless suggests that Acura intends to pursue a broader electrification strategy rather than relying exclusively on smaller hybrid engines or fully electric vehicles.

A V6 hybrid could be especially important for the brand’s larger SUVs, where customers may expect strong acceleration and towing capability alongside the comfort and refinement of a premium vehicle.

The powertrain’s eventual competitiveness will depend on its efficiency, performance, reliability and pricing relative to rival hybrid systems.

Acura ADX, MDX and Integra to Receive 2027 Updates

While the new SUVs remain in development, Acura is also preparing meaningful enhancements for three existing models for the 2027 model year: the ADX, MDX and Integra.

The ADX and Integra are particularly important as entry points into the brand. They provide customers with more accessible ways to purchase an Acura before potentially moving to larger or more expensive models in the future.

The MDX, meanwhile, remains central to the company’s premium SUV strategy.

Acura has not yet detailed all the changes planned for the 2027 model year, so specific updates to engines, styling, infotainment systems, safety equipment or standard features should not be assumed.

The company’s stated objective is to increase customer value and maintain competitiveness across the lineup.

That approach is increasingly important in the premium market, where buyers are balancing technology, equipment, reliability and purchase prices against the cost of ownership.

By enhancing existing models while preparing new vehicles for additional market segments, Acura hopes to retain current customers and attract buyers who may not previously have considered the brand.

Acura Sales Grow 4.4% in the First Nine Months of 2026

Acura’s expansion plans come as the brand reports positive sales momentum in North America.

Through the first three quarters of 2026, Acura recorded a 4.4% year-over-year increase in sales, according to figures provided in the company’s announcement.

The MDX was a particularly strong performer, with sales growth of more than 25%. Acura also described the MDX as the industry’s best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time.

The ADX and Integra are also contributing to the brand’s performance, with Acura reporting that both models lead their respective segments in retail sales.

These results support Acura’s strategy of combining more accessible entry-level products with larger, more expensive SUVs that can appeal to customers as their needs change.

However, the figures reflect the period through September 2026 and should not be interpreted as full-year sales results.

Acura’s future performance will depend on several factors, including the competitiveness of its existing vehicles, the timing of new product launches and conditions across the North American automotive market.

Acura Focuses on Long-Term Customer Loyalty

A central element of Acura’s new strategy is the idea of retaining customers throughout different stages of life.

A buyer might initially enter the brand through the ADX or Integra before moving to an RDX, MDX or the forthcoming eight-passenger SUV as family and transportation requirements evolve.

The planned adventure-oriented model could also bring new customers into the Acura ecosystem by appealing to buyers with different recreational and lifestyle priorities.

Eiji Fujimura, president and CEO of American Honda, said the company is committing to products and services that meet customer needs at every life stage, with a focus on premium value and faster product development.

Gary Robinson, vice president of auto strategy at American Honda, emphasised the importance of expanding into popular market segments while maintaining Acura’s presence in entry-level categories.

The strategy reflects a wider challenge facing premium manufacturers: attracting first-time buyers without allowing prices and ownership costs to become barriers to entry.

Acura’s ADX and Integra are intended to address that challenge, while the new SUVs will give existing customers more opportunities to remain with the brand as their requirements change.

What Acura’s New SUV Strategy Means for the Premium Market

Acura’s planned expansion demonstrates the continuing importance of SUVs to the North American premium vehicle market.

Rather than focusing exclusively on a single flagship model or moving directly towards an all-electric lineup, the company is preparing vehicles for several distinct customer groups.

The adventure SUV will target buyers seeking a more active lifestyle. The eight-passenger flagship will address demand for greater passenger capacity, while the next-generation RDX Hybrid will introduce two-motor hybrid technology to one of Acura’s established nameplates.

The planned V6 hybrid powertrain could provide another important option for customers who want stronger performance and towing capability without giving up the potential efficiency benefits of electrification.

At the same time, the 2027 updates for the ADX, MDX and Integra should help Acura maintain momentum before its next wave of new vehicles arrives.

The strategy does not guarantee that Acura will outperform its competitors, particularly as premium manufacturers continue investing in hybrids, plug-in hybrids and fully electric SUVs. Much will depend on the quality of the final products, their prices and how quickly they reach dealerships.

Nevertheless, the direction is clear: Acura wants a broader SUV lineup, more electrified powertrain options and a stronger connection with customers throughout their ownership journey.

Source: Acura

Toyota Highlander BEV For North America

Toyota has finally plugged one of its most important nameplates into the wall. The Japanese automaker announced that a battery-electric version of the Highlander will join its North American lineup in late 2026, marking a major step in its famously cautious but increasingly serious push toward electrification. And in a move that should resonate just as loudly in Frankfort as it does in Fremont, the electric Highlander will be built in Kentucky, not shipped across the Pacific.

For a company that made hybrids mainstream long before EVs became fashionable, Toyota’s “multi-pathway” strategy has often looked like a polite way of hedging its bets. But adding a fully electric, three-row SUV to the heart of its family-hauler portfolio sends a clear signal: Toyota is done tiptoeing.

An EV for America’s favorite Toyota SUV

Since arriving in the U.S. in 2001, the Highlander has become one of Toyota’s most dependable breadwinners, racking up more than 3.6 million sales thanks to its mix of space, comfort, and just-enough ruggedness. Turning it into an EV isn’t about chasing tech-bro cool points—it’s about keeping suburban driveways Toyota-shaped in an era when electrons are replacing gasoline.

Toyota debuted the electric Highlander in Ojai, California, but its future is firmly rooted in the Bluegrass State. Production will happen at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, making it the fourth EV in Toyota’s U.S. lineup after the bZ, C-HR, and bZ Woodland. Translation: this isn’t a compliance car—it’s a volume play.

Big battery, big SUV, real range

Toyota isn’t messing around with half-hearted electrification here. The Highlander BEV will offer two lithium-ion battery sizes:

  • 76.96 kWh, aimed at everyday urban driving
  • 95.82 kWh, designed for long-distance cruising and outdoor escapes

Buyers will be able to pair either battery with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, giving the electric Highlander a surprisingly broad menu of configurations.

The headline figure is the 95.82-kWh AWD model, which Toyota says is targeting up to 320 miles of range. That’s firmly in Tesla Model Y Long Range territory, and it puts the Highlander BEV in striking distance of America’s best-selling EVs—only this one has three rows and room for a soccer team’s worth of gear.

Smaller-battery versions still look competitive, with development targets of 287 miles (FWD) and 270 miles (AWD).

Cold-weather charging, finally taken seriously

Toyota is also addressing one of EV ownership’s biggest real-world pain points: winter charging. The Highlander BEV will include battery preconditioning, keeping the pack at an optimal temperature so fast-charging doesn’t crawl when it’s freezing outside.

The target? Roughly 30 minutes to a rapid charge even in cold conditions. For families road-tripping through snowy states, that’s the difference between a coffee break and a multi-hour ordeal.

Same Highlander, new powertrain

Dimensionally, the electric Highlander sticks close to the gas-powered formula that made it a hit:

  • Length: 198.8 inches
  • Width: 78.3 inches
  • Height: 67.3 inches
  • Wheelbase: 120.1 inches

In other words, this is still very much a full-size, three-row family machine—just without tailpipe emissions and with a lot more torque lurking under the floor.

Toyota finally leans in

Toyota will continue to sell hybrids, plug-ins, and even hydrogen vehicles, but the electric Highlander feels like a turning point. It’s not a niche crossover or a futuristic experiment—it’s one of Toyota’s core products, electrified.

For families who want to go green without downsizing, and for Toyota loyalists who’ve been waiting for a serious EV from the brand they trust, the Highlander BEV might be the most important Toyota launch of the decade.

Late 2026 can’t come soon enough.

Source: Toyota