Honda Saw What GR And Nismo Did, And Now It Wants In - Carscoops

Honda is gearing up to roll out HRC-branded trims across select Honda and Acura models, tapping its motorsport pedigree to rival performance sub-brands like Hyundai N, Nissan Nismo, and Toyota Gazoo Racing.

At the Tokyo Auto Salon, Honda previewed what is coming next:

• Civic Type R: a camouflaged prototype with reshaped bumpers, custom rear-wing endplates, and a deep rear diffuser for added aero aggression.
• Prelude: a motorsport-inspired take featuring forged carbon fiber components.

Both vehicles anchor Honda Racing Corporation’s Sport Line concept, aimed squarely at street performance. Alongside them, Honda showed a Trail Line of accessorized SUVs, including the CR-V, ZR-V, WR-V, and Vezel, dressed in protective cladding and off-road gear for a more rugged stance.

Honda leadership says its racing-first approach will inform future products, feeding track-honed insights back into road cars. The plan is to introduce Sport Line and Trail Line models through HRC, though specific production models, timing, and market availability remain unconfirmed.

The groundwork has been building. At the 2024 SEMA Show, Acura displayed a heavily modified Integra Type S with aggressive aero and racing upgrades. Soon after, executives confirmed development of HRC-branded production models for public sale.

What to expect

• HRC-badged trims for halo cars like the Civic Type R and Acura Integra Type S
• Two distinct directions: Sport Line for street performance and Trail Line for light off-road style and capability
• A mix of aerodynamic body kits, forged-carbon elements, and adventure-focused accessories
• Staged rollout details and regional availability to be announced

Source: https://www.carscoops.com/2026/01/honda-hrc-performance-trim-expansion/