Does the S2000 come in automatic?
No—the Honda S2000 was offered exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission throughout its production run from 1999 to 2009.
The S2000 is renowned for its high-revving 2.0-liter engine and a chassis tuned for driver engagement. This article explains why the car stayed manual, what that means for collectors today, and how the generations differ.
Transmission architecture and overall specs
Generational snapshot
AP1 (1999–2000)
AP2 (2004–2009)
What about automatic options?
Today’s market and buying considerations
Summary
Is there a Honda S2000 automatic?
No, the Honda S2000 was never offered with an automatic transmission; it was exclusively equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. This manual-only setup was a core part of the car's pure, driver-focused performance identity, which included its rear-wheel-drive layout and high-revving engine.
- Manual only: All Honda S2000 models were built with a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission.
- Performance focus: The manual transmission was a deliberate choice to maintain the car's performance-oriented design and driving experience.
- Rear-wheel drive: The S2000 was also exclusively rear-wheel drive.
Why are S2000 so rare?
It's probably a combination of factors. Large upfront investment, low potential sales volume, decreasing interest in roadsters, potential production capacity issues, etc.
Is the 2026 Honda S2000 real?
No, a production 2026 Honda S2000 is not yet real, and its return is still based on rumors and speculative renders. While the car has not been officially confirmed by Honda, speculation suggests it is being considered and may be released, with many enthusiast-created designs and videos portraying what a modern version would look like.
You can watch this video to see a fan-made render of the 2026 Honda S2000: 56sREC TrendsYouTube · Sep 11, 2025
- Not officially announced: Honda has not officially announced or confirmed any plans for a new S2000 for 2026 or any other model year.
- Based on speculation: Most of the information circulating comes from unconfirmed reports, renders, and concept videos created by enthusiasts, not official sources.
- Rumors of a possible return: Reports have suggested that Honda is considering reviving the S2000, possibly to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the original car, but these are not official.
- Conceptual designs: The features often discussed, such as a turbocharged 2.0L engine, hybrid assist, or a 2.0L inline-6, are part of these speculative designs and not official specifications.
This video discusses what a new S2000 could be like, based on rumors: 59sAutoDiveYouTube · Jan 7, 2025
Is the Honda S2000 manual?
Yes, the Honda S2000 is only available with a six-speed manual, or "stick shift," transmission. Honda designed the S2000 around a manual gearbox, and no automatic version was ever produced.
You can watch this video to learn how to drive a manual car like the Honda S2000: 59sGJACarsYouTube · Aug 9, 2024
- No automatic option: There is no automatic transmission option for the Honda S2000, making the manual the only choice for all model years.
- Manual transmission details: It came equipped with a close-ratio, short-throw, six-speed manual transmission.
- Driver focus: The decision to exclusively use a manual transmission was intentional, designed to create a more direct and engaging driving experience for the driver.
This video highlights the shifter experience in the Honda S2000: 24sAutolyticYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
