The original S2000 is one of the most iconic roadsters of all time and it definitely deserves to get a successor. The original model ended its production back in 2009 and since then, we are eagerly waiting for the next generation. The initial plan was dropped due to the financial crisis in 2009 but these days, rumors that have been circulating around since 2015, sound more realistic than ever. Moreover, some rumors suggest that the new model could come already in the next year.
If the 2022 Honda S2000 is about to come back, we have no doubt that the new model will stick to the original recipe. Of course, this means a classic roadster layout, based on an RWD platform, for an ultimate driving experience. Naturally, the styling would be based on the company’s latest design language, but we count on a lot of exclusive details as well.
If we can trust rumors, the new model could come already next year, though reports that suggest its arrival by 2024 sound more realistic.
2022 Honda S2000 Design
Of course, the best thing about the original model was its overall layout. The original S2000 came in a perfect form, as a light and powerful British-style roadster, bigger and way more powerful than Miata. It is one of the best Roasters of its era, so there is no doubt that the new model would stick to the same recipe.
In other words, we would see a typical roaster layout, with the front-mid engine and rear-wheel drive. Such a layout would provide a perfect mass distribution, which is crucial for the ultimate driving experience. Of course, we would expect to see a few more mechanical upgrades, typical for modern sports cars, such as limited-slip differential etc.
Exterior
One of the things that come to mind is size and weight. We expect that the new model will be quite similar to the original. Due to modern driver aids and safety requirements, we presume that the new 2022 Honda S2000 would probably be slightly heavier than the original, which weighed around 2.800 pounds. In terms of size, things should remain pretty similar. For reference, the original model features around 95 inches in wheelbase, while the overall length goes around 162 inches.
When it comes to the styling, the original model didn’t have too many things in common with the rest of the lineup. The styling was pretty exclusive, so we may expect exclusive details from the new 2022 Honda S2000 as well. However, we should also see some styling elements from the NSX supercar and similar models. We count on the same long hood as in the original, while headlights should be slimmer and sharper.
Interior
On the inside, we have no doubt that the overall design approach would be the same. In other words, the 2022 Honda S2000 would also come with a Spartan interior, which is simple and all about the driver. Of course, a two-seat configuration is a certain thing, while the dashboard should feature a clean and simple design.
A driver-focused interior means that we expect to see a center console oriented to the driver, The instrument cluster could mimic the original one, which would be a great retro touch. Of course, modern features are a necessary thing. So, a large infotainment screen should come as well. We count on all other kinds of tech features, including a full load of advanced driver aids and safety features. Naturally, these things should be able to turn off, for those who want to experience the ultimate driving experience of the British-style roadster.
2022 Honda S2000 Engine
Every Honda car is mostly about the powertrain and that’s particularly emphasized in the case of sports vehicles. The 2022 Honda S2000 will be no exception. Unfortunately, things will be a little bit different compared to the original.
The era of high-revving naturally-aspirated engines is gone. So, we will see a little bit different design compared to the legendary F20C engine, which is one of the most iconic four-cylinder engines of all time.
With the max power of 247 horses, this legendary unit was able to rev all-away up to 9.000 RPM, making an impressive engine note. The engine will be a little bit different. Of course, we are talking about the same engine found in the Type R, which can’t rev that high and which is more about mid-range power. For this occasion, it will probably feature even more power than the high-performance hatchback, maybe even a full 350 horses. Of course, the engine will come with Honda’s excellent 6-speed manual transmission in pair.
2022 Honda S2000 Release Date
Despite the rumors, the 2022 Honda S2000 won’t arrive that soon. If the Japanese manufacturer is about to bring back this icon, we will probably have to wait for a little bit more. Some sources suggest that the new S2000 could be ready for 2024 and such a scenario looks more likely in our eyes.