Honda Unveils 2026 Power Unit Silhouette, Kicks Off Aston Martin Partnership

Honda has offered a first look and listen to its 2026 Formula 1 power unit, unveiling the engine's silhouette and sound as it prepares for its new works partnership with Aston Martin. The Japanese manufacturer is aiming to replicate its recent championship-winning success with the Silverstone-based squad, with the first joint car set to hit the track for pre-season testing in February.

Why it matters:

Honda's move from Red Bull to Aston Martin is one of the most significant drivers of competitive change for the 2026 season. After providing the power unit that dominated the ground-effect era, the manufacturer's commitment to a full works partnership with Aston Martin signals a serious intent to create a new championship contender. This alliance could be the key to elevating Aston Martin from a solid midfield team to a consistent race-winner and title threat.

The details:

• The power unit's silhouette and sound were revealed by Honda HRC President Koji Watanabe at the 2026 Tokyo Motor Show, confirming the new engine's aggressive tone.
• A dedicated power unit launch event is scheduled for January 20 in Tokyo, where more details are expected to be shared.
• The first Aston Martin-Honda car, the AMR26, will be publicly unveiled on February 9.
• Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will conduct the first joint pre-season test with the new power unit in Barcelona later in February.
• Watanabe stated this marks "a new era for Honda F1" and confirmed the end-of-month Barcelona test, emphasizing the manufacturer's high hopes for the partnership.

What's next:

All eyes will be on the official power unit launch in Tokyo on January 20. The true test, however, will begin on the track in Barcelona, where the performance and reliability of the Honda-Aston Martin package will be revealed for the first time, setting the tone for their 2026 title ambitions.