Honda Cars Philippines has confirmed that it will not introduce the City e:HEV in 2026. This information was provided by the president of Honda Cars Philippines, Ms Rie Miyake, during the 2025 Honda Fest.

The launch of the all-new Toyota Ativ with a hybrid system has not prompted Honda to release a hybrid version of the City sedan or hatchback, despite the model being available with an electrified 1.5-litre powertrain in other markets.

According to Ms. Miyake: "In our path towards full electrification, our e:HEV models represent a crucial step for the Philippine market at this time. By 2026, Honda Cars Philippines will offer four hybrid models in its line-up, all equipped with the advanced driver-assist system Honda Sensing, in alignment with our 2050 global objectives of achieving a collision-free society, eliminating traffic accidents involving Honda vehicles, and attaining carbon neutrality across our products and operations."

Honda Cars Philippines currently offers the CR-V e:HEV, Civic e:HEV, and HR-V e:HEV. The fourth model is expected to be the sixth-generation Prelude e:HEV.

Ms. Miyake further added: "After much speculation, it is confirmed that the all-new Prelude will be introduced to this market in 2026. This represents a new phase of the expanded hybrid lineup. The stylish, performance-oriented hybrid sport coupe will be equipped with the e:HEV full hybrid system and the S+ shift system. As a specialty sports hybrid model focused on the 'joy of driving,' it provides an entirely new and immersive experience. The Prelude bridges Honda's legacy with advanced technologies, offering a classic model enhanced by electrification to create a nostalgic yet advanced experience for the driver."

In markets such as Thailand, the City e:HEV is powered by an electrified 1.5-litre powertrain producing 99 PS from the internal combustion engine and 110 PS from the electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 128 PS. Torque reaches 253 Nm. It is also the only City variant equipped with four-wheel disc brakes and an electronic parking brake.

Instead of the City e:HEV, Honda will introduce the Honda 0 (Zero) series in the Philippines following their respective global launches. This series will include the Honda 0 Saloon, Honda 0 SUV, and Honda 0 Alpha.

On December 6th, a senior official from Honda Cars Philippines clarified that the sub-compact sedan segment remains significant for the company, and the possibility of introducing the City e:HEV has not been entirely ruled out.