Honda sets two-step 2027 upgrade plan for Aston Martin

Honda is planning two major power-unit development steps in 2027 as it seeks to improve Aston Martin’s competitiveness after a difficult start to their new partnership. The first is targeted for the season opener, with a further upgrade planned for the middle of the campaign.

Honda has faced performance and reliability problems in 2026, including a lack of power, turbo lag, severe vibrations and drivability concerns. Under the ADUO mechanism, it is due two upgrades for 2027. The plan includes improving internal-combustion performance, which Honda says will matter more next season and help reduce reliance on battery systems.

The development challenge is also reflected in Honda’s reported vibration-related battery problems. The source article identifies combustion as a key weakness the manufacturer is now working to address.

Honda expects another step after the 2027 season opener

Honda chief engineer Shintaro Orihara said the manufacturer wants to make progress by round one but does not expect that first upgrade to put it among the leading competitors. He outlined a second, larger step for the middle of the season, with round eight in Monaco cited as a possible target.

Orihara described the two-stage schedule as Honda’s roadmap. The aim is to use the permitted upgrades to close the performance gap, with combustion development central to the work. Honda’s ADUO support allocation sets the framework for those planned changes.

The timing matters because the power unit’s internal-combustion performance is expected to carry greater importance in 2027 than it does this year. Honda is therefore targeting its engine’s combustion performance as it works to bring both itself and Aston Martin closer to rivals.

Aston Martin reaffirms its commitment to Honda

Aston Martin chief trackside officer Mike Krack dismissed the prospect of the team exploring a Red Bull Powertrains deal for 2028 in the event of a split with Honda. He said the team has a long-term partnership with the Japanese manufacturer and expects them to remain together until they win their first race as partners.

Krack also pointed to Honda reaching its 500th F1 race at Austin. His remarks reaffirmed Aston Martin’s support for the partnership as Honda works through its development plan and seeks to deliver the performance gains it has targeted for 2027.