Written byAccurate or not, the announcement of the Honda S2000 could be a long-awaited comeback. After its discontinuation in 2009, the 2026 Honda S2000 may once again join the ranks of classic two-seater roadsters, rumored for a release late in 2025. This may be the most incredible automotive comeback story to excite sports car fans and Honda lovers.
A Legendary Roadster, Reimagined for the Future
Honda first introduced the original S2000 in 1999 for its 50th Anniversary. Combine that with a high-revving 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, a perfect weight distribution, and precise handling, and it wasn’t long before it developed a dedicated following among driving enthusiasts. With its lightweight design, manual transmission, and open-top driving experience, the S2000 developed a cult following and competed with more expensive European roadsters.
Over a decade later, however, the rumors are swirling that Honda is prepared to once again slap an S2000 badge on its ass—albeit with the assistance of contemporary tech, updated good looks, and perhaps a hybrid powertrain to boot.
Rumored Powertrain – Turbocharged or Hybrid?
Although unconfirmed, speculation from various Japanese media based on industry insider leaks suggests the 2026 Honda S2000 could adopt a turbocharged four-cylinder as per the current Civic Type R. With 315 hp on tap, this 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four could easily serve under the hood of a new S2000. It could be tuned for the roadster to provide improved throttle response and torque delivery.
Honda could also take it a step further with a hybrid powertrain, keeping in line with the brand’s electrification strategy. A mild-hybrid setup would enable the S2000 to keep a light, performance-focused platform while increasing efficiency and complying with global emissions standards.
Whether it keys into an ICE (internal combustion engine) or includes electric support, enthusiasts are clamoring for the new S2000 to continue the tradition of the RWD layout and include the manual transmission option.
Design Language: A Sleek Evolution
While no official images are out yet, insiders expect the 2026 Honda S2000 to borrow heavily from design elements seen with the Honda NSX, alongside the splashy public debut of the Honda Prelude Concept at this week’s 2023 Japan Mobility Show. The new S2000 will likely feature a low-slung body, aggressive front fascia, aerodynamic sculpting, and a retractable soft top or targa-style roof.
Meanwhile, the interior will receive a full suite of upgrades, such as digital instrument clusters, touchscreen infotainment, and luxury materials, but it will remain true to the original’s driver-centric cockpit.
We’ll expect Honda to use lightweight materials like aluminum and carbon fiber to keep the roadster quick and nimble on both road and track.
A True Rival to the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Toyota GR86
As demand for lightweight, affordable sports cars declines, the 2026 S2000 could fill a sorely needed hole in the market. Depending on pricing, it should be in direct competition with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Toyota GR86, and maybe even the Nissan Z and Subaru BRZ. We expect the newcomer to command a little more than the Miata, which is likely still the default choice for any lightweight roadster, but the new S2000 could get a more powerful engine plus some modern tech like a more advanced DCT that would shave pace over its rival.
Anticipated Features of the 2026 Honda S2000
Nothing is set in stone, but here is what we think the2026 Honda S2000 might feature, according to insiders in the automotive industry:
- 2.0L I4 with turbocharged technology or hybrid power content
- Rear-wheel drive layout
- 6-speed MT (optional 6-speed AT) Adaptive suspension system
- Aluminum and carbon-fiber chassis
- A retractable soft top or Targa roof
- Digital instrument panel
- Honda Sensing safety suite
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
That would make the new S2000 a real modern high-performance ride and something that would at least capture most of our imagination of what a true S2000 should be like in the 21st century.
Expected Launch Timeline and Price
Although Honda has not confirmed the return, insiders claim it will arrive in late 2025, likely as a 2026 model-year car. The timing would be particularly poetic, as it would coincide with the 70th Anniversary of Honda’s founding.
Pricing remains secret but is expected to have a starting MSR of $40,000–$45,000 headline, depending on the powertrain and trim configuration. For a more performance-oriented “Type S” or “Type R” variant, that price could climb north of $50,000.
Enthusiast Reaction – A Comeback Worth Waiting For?
Anticipation has been building in the online automotive community. There are renderings, speculative specs, and fingers-crossed prognostications all over the forums and social media platforms. So, almost all S2000 veterans consider Honda’s plan to resurrect this sports car a chance to bring emotion back to the brand.
Honda hasn’t had a Halo sports car since the NSX stopped production. A rebirth of the S2000 could reinvigorate Honda’s performance legacy, and potentially, new blood could be added in the form of younger, new-age driving enthusiasts.
Could the S2000 Be a Collector’s Dream Again?
For a Honda S2000, an example in good condition has become a collector’s item, with the last examples in good order seeing great appreciation over time for the earlier AP1 and later AP2 models. If Honda comes through with a new S2000 that embodies the magic of the old one—light, manual, rear-wheel drive—it could be another surefire classic hot off the line.
As the world heads toward plug-in progress and the SUV dominates the landscape, a pure sports car might need a run on the circuit—and one with the potential for collectible distinction down the stretch.
Honda hasn’t confirmed the return of the 2026 Honda S2000, but the rumors keep surfacing, many of them directly from insiders in the company. Honda’s performance legacy could also be at a turning point with the rumonnance that the legendary roadster will return by the end of 2025. So, whether you’re an S2000 diehard or have never experienced the car’s magic the first time, this rumored sports car resurrection could be just what the automotive doctor ordered. Be sure to stick around, as according to the rumors, the Roadster game is about to get a lot louder.
All images courtesy of Lot Channel on YouTube
