Honda Cars Philippines‘ electrification efforts are truly in full swing now. After an event that showed off electric two-wheelers and a lineup of battery-powered tools, the main highlight was the preview of the new Civic RS e:HEV.

The only variant shown was the top-of-the-line RS, so we can’t fully decipher which features will make it to the rest of the lineup.

But the obvious changes come in the form of the redesigned front bumper à la Civic Si, new 18-inch matte-black seven-spoke alloy wheels still shod by grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber (235/40), a new hero color in Canyon River Blue Metallic, and e:HEV badging alongside a Honda logo with a faint blue tinge.

The all-black interior is updated with red accents surrounding the dashboard grille trim, and red contrast stitching on the revised leather-and-suede upholstery.

Tech-wise, the nine-inch infotainment, the 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and the 12-speaker Bose sound system remain, but the car can now utilize Honda Connect and Google Automotive Services. The latter will require you to tether your phone’s Internet connection to the car.

Other small changes also include the move over to USB-C ports (instead of USB-A), alongside two rear charging ports. Honda Sensing is still present, but it still relies on the LaneWatch blind-spot camera and a single reversing camera. At least, front and back parking sensors have finally been included.

The biggest change is the hybrid system. It uses the same powertrain as that of the CR-V RS e:HEV, meaning the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle motor (LFC-H4) is paired with two electric motors.

The engine can generate 139hp and 182Nm on its own, but the maximum electric-motor power output is a healthy 181hp and 315Nm. Honda claims it is the fastest hybrid in its segment, and should be an exciting car to drive.

Surprisingly, unlike the CR-V RS e:HEV, it does not compromise on practicality. There is still a spare tire in the boot, as the battery is located underneath the rear seats. Honda will offer an eight-year/200,000km warranty on the hybrid battery as well.

More details—including the price—will be unveiled at the Philippine International Motor Show next month.

When we asked Honda Cars Philippines president Rie Miyake on whether the e:HEV drivetrain will be limited to the top RS trims, she mentioned that the company will “eventually introduce it across more models and variants.”

Something definitely worth keeping an eye out for in the coming months.