Honda engine update meets targets at Zandvoort but Aston Martin requires further work
Honda's revised 2026 power unit delivered performance gains at Zandvoort that aligned with internal dyno targets and enabled a points finish. Aston Martin still needs optimisation in driveability, including braking and power delivery characteristics, ahead of Monza.
Honda power unit meets dyno targets at Zandvoort
Honda introduced its revised 2026 engine at the Dutch Grand Prix. The manufacturer confirmed the update achieved its internal performance targets from dyno testing and translated those gains on track.[1]
Aston Martin scored points with the package. Fernando Alonso finished ninth.[1]
Remaining optimisation required
Orihara stated after the race that driveability requires further work. Alonso noted the car had lost some of the handling and gear-shifting feel achieved with the prior engine specification.[1]
The team identified braking and power delivery characteristics among the areas needing refinement over the coming races.[1]
Path to Monza
Aston Martin and Honda plan additional development ahead of the Italian Grand Prix. The focus remains on aligning engine output with chassis demands.[2]
Related reading
- [1]Honda in new engine admission after Fernando Alonso 'square one' claim (planetf1). Accessed 2026-08-28.
- [2]Aston Martin to have upgraded Honda engine for Zandvoort (reuters). Accessed 2026-08-28.