The Honda Prelude is back, unveiled as a sleek hybrid coupe at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show, set to hit the U.S. market in late 2025.
A Nostalgic Return with Modern Flair
The Legacy of the Prelude
The Honda Prelude, a nameplate cherished by enthusiasts since the late 1970s, is making a triumphant return. Known for its sporty design and agile handling, the Prelude was a staple in Honda’s lineup through the 1990s until its discontinuation in the early 2000s. The 2023 Tokyo Auto Show marked the revival of this iconic sporty coupe with a concept that looks remarkably production-ready, signaling Honda’s intent to rekindle its legacy with a modern twist.
Hybrid Powertrain: The Heart of the 2026 Prelude
The new 2026 model introduces a hybrid powertrain, aligning with Honda’s push toward electrification. While specific details remain scarce, the Prelude is expected to share the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain found in models like the Civic, Accord, and CR-V, producing around 207 horsepower. This setup combines a gasoline engine with two electric motors, delivering power through a direct-drive system rather than a traditional transmission. Unlike its predecessors, a manual gearbox is unlikely, but the inclusion of an S+ Shift feature promises quicker simulated gear changes, enhancing driver engagement with active sound control for a more dynamic experience.
Design and Features
Exterior Styling: Sleek and Modern
The 2026 Honda Prelude boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design that echoes the sporty aesthetics of its ancestors while embracing 21st-century sophistication. Its low-slung profile, angular headlights, and LED light strip across the nose create a bold front fascia. The coupe’s curvy shape, upswept beltline, and sloping roofline evoke a sense of muscularity, while carbon fiber accents and large wheels hint at its performance pedigree. The prototype spotted in Germany closely mirrors the concept, suggesting minimal changes for production.
Interior: A Civic-Inspired Cabin
Inside, the Prelude draws heavily from the Civic platform, featuring a familiar dashboard layout with a nine-inch touchscreen and honeycomb-style air vents. The cabin offers a 2+2 seating configuration, with well-bolstered front seats embossed with the Prelude logo and a cramped rear bench better suited for small children. Notable features include larger paddle shifters, a push-button gear selector, and the S+ Shift button, designed to maximize driver engagement. High-quality materials, such as soft-touch surfaces and contrast stitching, elevate the interior’s appeal, positioning it closer to the Acura Integra than the standard Civic.
Performance and Handling
Driving Dynamics
Honda emphasizes that the 2026 Prelude prioritizes “the joy of driving.” While it may not compete with high-performance models like the Civic Type R or Toyota GR86, its front-wheel drive setup, potentially with an all-wheel-drive option, promises agile handling. The Prelude is built on a modified Civic platform, likely incorporating adjustable dampers for improved cornering. However, Honda’s chief engineer, Tomoyuki Yamagami, noted that it won’t be the “sportiest, zippiest car” for circuit racing, focusing instead on accessible performance for everyday enthusiasts.
Comparison with Competitors
| Feature | Honda Prelude (2026) | Toyota GR86 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Hybrid (2.0L + electric motors) | 2.4L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | ~207 hp | 228 hp |
| Drive Type | FWD (AWD possible) | RWD |
| Transmission | Direct-drive (simulated shifts) | 6-speed manual/automatic |
| Est. Price | ~$30,000–$40,000 | ~$30,000 |
| Market Launch | Late 2025 (U.S.) | Available now |
Market Position and Expectations
A New Chapter for Honda
The Prelude fills a gap in Honda’s lineup left by the discontinued Civic and Accord coupes. Targeting younger buyers, it blends nostalgia with modern efficiency, competing with affordable sports coupes like the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ. Its hybrid powertrain offers a balance of performance and fuel economy, appealing to eco-conscious drivers without sacrificing driving fun. With a projected starting price around $30,000–$40,000, it aims to deliver value and excitement.
Global Rollout
Honda has confirmed the Prelude will launch in Europe and the U.K. in 2025, with the U.S. market following in late 2025 as a 2026 model. Its appearance at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed in a vibrant red hue further showcased its near-production design, building anticipation for its global debut.
Conclusion
The 2026 Honda Prelude marks the return of a beloved nameplate, reimagined as a stylish sporty coupe with a hybrid powertrain. By blending nostalgic appeal with modern technology, Honda aims to capture the hearts of enthusiasts and new buyers alike. While it may not rival hardcore performance cars, its focus on driving joy, sleek design, and accessible pricing positions it as a compelling option in the shrinking coupe market. As more details emerge in 2025, the Prelude is poised to redefine Honda’s sporty legacy.
2 thoughts on “New 2025 Honda Prelude Revealed: Sporty Hybrid Coupe Reviving a Legend, Check Details”