Karmactive Team
Honda is bringing back the Prelude after a 25-year absence. The 2026 model, set to arrive in U.S. dealerships in late fall 2025, marks the first time this iconic sports coupe will feature hybrid-electric power.
The new Prelude combines Honda’s two-motor hybrid system with chassis components from the high-performance Civic Type R. This pairing delivers 200 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque, giving drivers quick acceleration while maintaining good fuel efficiency.
“We are thrilled to be bringing back such an iconic nameplate,” said Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda National Auto Sales. “The Prelude’s return demonstrates our commitment to exciting, fun-to-drive vehicles and will help to accelerate our hybrid sales in the years ahead.”
Honda developed the Prelude under the concept “Unlimited Glide,” aiming to create a vehicle that provides an uplifting driving sensation. The company calls it a “grand touring” car rather than a track-focused sports car, balancing performance with everyday comfort.
One of the Prelude’s standout features is the new “Honda S+ Shift” system. This technology simulates an 8-speed transmission in a car that doesn’t actually have traditional gears. When activated, it creates the feeling of gear shifts, complete with rev-matched downshifts and enhanced engine sounds through the speakers. Honda plans to include this feature in future hybrid models.
The Prelude borrows several performance parts from the Civic Type R, including: Dual-axis strut front suspension for better handling Adaptive dampers that adjust to different driving conditions Large 13.8-inch Brembo front brakes with blue calipers
Inside, the Prelude features a driver-focused cockpit with leather-trimmed sport seats. The front seats have asymmetrical designs—the driver’s seat has firmer bolsters for support during spirited driving, while the passenger seat offers more relaxed comfort. Both seats feature integrated headrests and blue stitching details.
Tech features include a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium 8-speaker Bose sound system. Honda includes a complimentary 3-year unlimited data plan for connectivity services.
Similar Posts
Despite its sporty coupe appearance with a steeply raked roofline, the Prelude is actually a hatchback with practical storage. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split to accommodate larger items like golf bags. Honda says the cargo area has 15.1 cubic feet of space.
The exterior design includes flush door handles, a “double-bubble” roof, and blue accents at the front and rear fascias. The Prelude will be available in five colors: Winter Frost Pearl (with either body-color or black roof options), Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Rally Red, and Boost Blue Pearl.
Safety features include the Honda Sensing suite with collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a post-collision braking system to help reduce damage in multi-crash scenarios.
In Japan, where sales begin September 5, 2025, Honda plans to sell 300 units per month.. U.S. pricing hasn’t been announced but is expected to be in the mid-$30,000 range.
The Prelude joins Honda’s expanding hybrid lineup, which already accounts for more than a quarter of the company’s U.S. sales in 2024, with plans to exceed 60% in the coming years. This strategy aligns with what Honda describes as a plateau in EV demand, positioning the hybrid Prelude as a bridge in the electrification transition.
For driving enthusiasts who want to personalize their Prelude, Honda will offer accessories including 19-inch wheels, a black decklid spoiler, front underbody spoilers, and black emblems.
While not a direct replacement for a traditional sports car, the new Prelude fills a unique space as one of the few hybrid coupes on the market, offering a blend of efficiency, style, and driving engagement.
