The showroom floor of a modern Honda dealership is a landscape dominated by practical SUVs, efficient hybrids, and reliable sedans. For enthusiasts scanning the lot for a folding fabric roof or a sleek targa top, the search ends in disappointment. As of 2025, Honda does not manufacture or sell a new convertible car in the United States or most global markets.

The absence of an open-top model marks a significant departure from Honda’s heritage. For decades, the brand was synonymous with high-revving roadsters that prioritized driver engagement over sheer horsepower. While rumors of a "2026 Honda Civic Cabriolet" or a revived S2000 frequently circulate on social media, these remain enthusiast renderings and speculative concepts without official backing from Honda.

Understanding the current state of Honda's open-top offerings requires a look at why the brand shifted its strategy and, more importantly, a deep dive into the legendary models that continue to define Honda’s legacy in the used car market.

The Myth of the New Honda Convertible

In recent months, several viral videos and "leak" articles have suggested that Honda is preparing to launch a convertible version of the eleventh-generation Civic or a new electric roadster. It is important to clarify: Honda has made no official announcement regarding a production-ready convertible for the 2025 or 2026 model years.

The automotive industry is currently navigating a complex transition toward electrification and increased safety standards. For a manufacturer like Honda, developing a low-volume, niche convertible requires immense R&D costs that are difficult to justify when consumer demand has shifted heavily toward crossovers like the CR-V and Pilot. While the Honda Prelude Concept recently revived hopes for a two-door sports car, that vehicle is a coupe, not a convertible, and its production version is expected to focus on a hybrid powertrain.

For those determined to experience the wind-in-the-hair sensation that only a Honda-engineered chassis can provide, the answer lies not in the future, but in a prestigious past.

The Honda S2000: A Modern Classic Benchmark

If one car defines the "Honda convertible" query, it is the S2000. Produced between 1999 and 2009, the S2000 was created to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary. It remains one of the most celebrated sports cars of the 21st century.

Engineering Excellence: The F20C and F22C1

At the heart of the S2000 was its engine. The early models (AP1) featured the F20C, a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produced 240 horsepower. For years, it held the record for the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated production engine in the world—roughly 120 horsepower per liter—until it was eventually surpassed by the Ferrari 458 Italia.

Driving an AP1 S2000 is a visceral experience. The engine’s redline sits at a staggering 9,000 RPM. In our testing of these vintage units, the transition at 6,000 RPM when the VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) kicks in is not just a sound; it is a physical surge that changes the car’s personality. The digital instrument cluster, inspired by Formula 1 cars of the era, flashes yellow and orange as you approach the limit, demanding a precise shift from the six-speed manual transmission.

In 2004, the AP2 update introduced the F22C1 engine in the North American market. By increasing the stroke, Honda bumped the displacement to 2.2 liters. While the redline dropped to 8,000 RPM, the trade-off was increased low-end torque, making the car significantly more driveable in daily traffic.

Chassis and Handling

The S2000 was built on a unique "X-bone" frame. This rigid structure provided the stiffness of a closed-top car while maintaining the lightweight profile of a roadster. With a perfect 50:50 weight distribution and double-wishbone suspension at all four corners, the S2000 offers a level of steering precision that modern electrically assisted systems struggle to replicate.

For a prospective buyer, the S2000 is the ultimate "analog" convertible. It lacks modern distractions—no touchscreen, no driving modes, and in early models, no traction control. It is a pure connection between the driver, the machine, and the road.

The Kei Car Legends: Honda Beat and S660

While the S2000 was a global icon, Honda also mastered the art of the "Kei" car—a Japanese category of small vehicles restricted in size and engine displacement. These tiny roadsters prove that you don't need high speeds to have high levels of fun.

Honda Beat (1991–1996)

The Honda Beat was the last car personally approved by Soichiro Honda before his passing. It is a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive (MR) masterpiece packaged in a body less than 130 inches long. Designed in collaboration with Pininfarina, the Beat looks like a supercar that was shrunk in the wash.

Its 660cc three-cylinder engine uses Honda’s MTREC (Multi Throttle Responsive Engine Control) system, featuring individual throttle bodies for each cylinder. While it only produces 64 horsepower (the legal limit for Kei cars), the engine screams to 8,500 RPM. In tight urban environments or narrow canyon roads, the Beat feels incredibly fast because you are using 100% of its potential 100% of the time. The zebra-print seats and the mechanical "click-clack" of the short-throw shifter add to its eccentric charm.

Honda S660 (2015–2022)

The spiritual successor to the Beat, the S660, brought the mid-engine convertible concept into the modern era. Although it was never officially sold in the US, many have been imported to other markets. The S660 features a turbocharged 660cc engine and a chassis so capable that it often feels like it could handle double the power.

Unlike the S2000’s power-operated top, the S660 uses a "roll-top" that must be manually removed and stowed in the front trunk (frunk). It is a car built for balance. During spirited drives, the mid-engine layout allows the S660 to rotate effortlessly through corners, providing a miniature NSX-like experience for a fraction of the cost.

The Quirky Honda Del Sol (1992–1998)

Often forgotten in the shadow of the S2000, the Honda Civic del Sol (known simply as the CR-X del Sol in some markets) offered a different take on open-air driving. Rather than a full convertible, the Del Sol featured a Targa top—a removable hard panel that could be stored in a dedicated rack inside the trunk.

The Del Sol’s party piece was its optional "TransTop" mechanism (primarily in Europe and Japan), an automated system that would lift the trunk lid and an internal arm to grab the roof and pull it into the rear. For US buyers, the manual top was more common but equally clever, allowing for an open-top experience without the maintenance headaches of a traditional soft top.

The VTEC trim of the Del Sol was the one to get, equipped with the B16A3 engine producing 160 horsepower. It was essentially a Civic Si that you could tan in. While it suffered from more cowl shake than the S2000, it remains a practical, front-wheel-drive entry point into the world of Honda convertibles.

Why Did Honda Stop Making Convertibles?

The disappearance of the Honda convertible is a result of three major industry shifts:

1. The Rise of the SUV

Globally, consumers have traded "fun-to-drive" for "easy-to-load." The profitability of SUVs and crossovers is significantly higher than that of niche roadsters. As Honda focused its resources on dominant sellers like the CR-V, the budget for low-volume projects like a new S2000 evaporated.

2. Safety and Structural Rigidity

Modern crash test standards are incredibly stringent. Making a car safe in a rollover accident without a fixed roof requires heavy reinforcement and expensive materials. To maintain Honda’s reputation for safety, a new convertible would likely be heavier and more expensive than its predecessors, potentially alienating the "affordable performance" fan base.

3. The Path to Electrification

Honda is currently investing billions into its "0 Series" electric vehicles. Batteries are heavy and take up significant space. Designing an electric convertible that is both lightweight and has a decent range is a massive engineering challenge that most manufacturers are not yet ready to tackle for a mass-market price point.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Honda Convertible

Since you cannot buy a new one, the used market is your only venue. Whether you are looking for an S2000, a Del Sol, or a recently legal-to-import Beat, keep these points in mind:

The Soft Top Condition

Honda soft tops are generally durable, but age takes its toll. Check the "elbows" of the folding frame for tears in the fabric. On S2000s, look for wear near the latch points. Replacing a top can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 including labor.

The Rear Window

Early S2000 models (1999–2001) used a plastic rear window that tended to cloud and crack over time. Later models switched to glass with an integrated defroster. If you are buying an early car, check if it has been upgraded to a glass window, as this significantly improves visibility and resale value.

Maintenance Records (The VTEC Factor)

High-revving engines require meticulous oil maintenance. Ask for records proving the use of high-quality synthetic oil and OEM filters. On the S2000, specifically, ask if the valve clearances have been adjusted recently and if the retainers (on AP1 models) have been inspected for cracks.

Rust and Structural Integrity

For the Del Sol and the Beat, rust in the rear quarter panels and rocker panels is a common killer. Because these cars are often driven in coastal or snowy areas, check the underside thoroughly. A Honda engine might last 300,000 miles, but the body won't if it's been eaten by salt.

Summary of the Honda Convertible Legacy

While the current Honda lineup is devoid of convertibles, the brand's history in this segment is unparalleled. From the high-RPM screaming of the S2000 to the mid-engine agility of the S660 and Beat, Honda has always approached open-top motoring with a focus on mechanical purity.

If you are looking for a Honda convertible today, you are looking for a collector's item. The S2000 has seen a massive surge in value, with clean, low-mileage examples often selling for more than their original MSRP. The Beat and S660 offer a more affordable, albeit smaller, alternative for those who appreciate JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) culture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Honda make a convertible in 2025?

No. Honda does not currently produce a factory convertible for the US or global markets. Their current lineup focuses on sedans, SUVs, and the upcoming Prelude coupe.

Will there be a new Honda S2000?

There are constant rumors and "concepts," but Honda has not officially confirmed a successor. Any new S2000 would likely be an electric vehicle (EV) or a high-output hybrid to align with Honda’s future goals.

What is the most reliable Honda convertible?

The Honda S2000 is widely considered the most reliable, provided it has been maintained. Its F-series engine is legendary for its durability, even under track use. The Del Sol is also very reliable as it shares most of its mechanical components with the ubiquitous Honda Civic.

Can I buy a Honda S660 in the United States?

The S660 was never sold in the US. Under the "25-year rule," you cannot legally import and register an S660 for street use in the US until 2040. However, the older Honda Beat (1991-1996) is now legal to import.

How much does a used Honda S2000 cost?

Prices vary significantly based on mileage and condition. Expect to pay between $20,000 for a high-mileage "driver" car and upwards of $50,000 for a pristine, low-mileage collector example.

Conclusion

The Honda convertible car is a rare species in the modern automotive world. While the manufacturer has moved toward a future of electrification and utility, the legacy of their open-top sports cars remains a gold standard for enthusiasts. Whether it is the unmatched 9,000 RPM redline of the S2000 or the pint-sized mid-engine thrill of the Beat, these cars represent a time when driving pleasure was the primary metric of success. Until Honda decides to cut the roof off one of its future EVs, the best way to experience a Honda convertible is to dive into the vibrant and rewarding world of classic JDM ownership.