With praise for its power, efficiency and refinement from the editors at WardsAuto, the Honda 2-motor hybrid system with e:HEV technology powering the latest Honda Civic Sedan and Hatchback has received a ‘Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems’ award. This is the third year in a row a Honda hybrid electric powertrain has received this honour.
A key element in the Honda electrification strategy, the fourth-generation Honda two-motor hybrid system that powers Civic e:HEV hybrid models maximizes fuel-efficiency without compromising dynamic performance or passenger and cargo space to deliver a sportier and more pleasant driving experience.
The hybrid system does not require a traditional transmission or CVT for driving and generating power. Instead, it relies on the interplay of the two motors rather than use a torque converter or mechanical pulley or belt. This form of direct drive force transfer offers smooth and predictable acceleration matched with efficient low-rpm highway cruising when the petrol engine is in operation.
Linear Shift Control further elevates the driving experience by mimicking the vehicle speed-linked rev feel associated with a conventional drivetrain shifting gears under acceleration. In addition, there are 4 levels of regenerative-braking deceleration available through selector paddles on the steering wheel. The multiple levels provide a wide range of control during deceleration.
Variants of the 2-motor hybrid system are also available in the Accord and CR-V, and represent more than 50% of Accord and CR-V sales in the USA The upcoming Prelude sports coupe will also join the list with e:HEV technology, expanding the brand’s hybrid-electric line-up.
What Wards said
“The Honda 2-motor hybrid system in Honda Civic hybrid models lands on our list for the second straight year, as it still provides an excellent balance between performance and fuel economy, something that’s typically lacking in electrified powertrains,” said Gary Vasilash, a judge on the 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems panel.
“Along with the marriage of athleticism and fuel-sipping the Honda two-motor hybrid system imbues in the compact Honda Civic hybrid, the transparency of its operation and its affordability are other factors that wowed our judges,” added Christie Schweinsberg, manager and judge of the annual awards program which has been running since 1995.
WARDS 10 BEST ENGINES & PROPULSION SYSTEMS for 2025
- Electric Propulsion System (Nissan LEAF)
- 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 PHEV (BMW M5)
- 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 (Chevrolet Corvette ZR1)
- Electric Propulsion System (Dodge Charger Daytona)
- 3.5-litre turbocharged V6 HEV (Ford F-150)
- 2.0-litre I4 HEV (Honda Civic e:HEV Hybrid)
- Electric Propulsion System (Hyundai IONIQ 9)
- 3.4-litre turbocharged V6 HEV (Lexus LX 700h)
- Electric Propulsion System (Lucid Gravity)
- 3.0-litre turbocharged I6 PHEV (Mercedes-AMG E53
HEV – self-charging hybrid electric system
PHEV – plug-in rechargeable hybrid electric system
Click here to know more about Honda’s e:HEV models in Malaysia.
