JAS Motorsport starts evaluation of Honda Prelude for TCR

JAS Motorsport has started an feasibility study on the Honda Prelude model as a potential replacement for the Civic in TCR.

“We are conducting a feasibility study to determine the best platform for the future,” said a JAS Motorsport representative to TouringCarTimes.

Honda has run the Civic model in touring cars since 2012 and a key reason for the Prelude model to be in contention as a replacement is the change in TCR regulations which allows three-door cars and 2.5-litre engines.

“Regulations changed earlier this year to allow to allow the three-door body and an engine of up to 2500cc into global competition with immediate effect,” said the representative.

“We are heavily invested in TCR, have produced 225 cars so far and won ‘Model of the Year’ three times with the Civic Type R TCR. It is only natural that we want to produce the most competitive car possible for our customers.”

The Prelude road car model went on sale earlier this year, while the 12th generation Civic is expected to debut in 2027, a model which could still become the next TCR model of Honda.

“It is a possibility,” said the representative.

JAS Motorsport has not confirmed when a potential replacement for the Honda Civic Type R TCR FL5, which was unveiled late 2022, could see the light of day.

“The decision on this will be made by Honda,” said the representative.