Honda is set to bring back the iconic Prelude nameplate as a hybrid coupe. While I was excited about the prospects of its return seeing the gorgeous near-production concept displayed in Los Angeles last year (is my enthusiasm evident in the exclusive images featured in this story?), Japan’s Best Car Web magazine has learned new information about the project.
Design
Honda has not said anything about the production version of the Prelude, but Best Car Web has it on authority that a sleek and aerodynamic design will pay homage to the Prelude’s classic coupe silhouette. The car is rumored to measure 169.3 inches in length, 70.5 inches in width, and 51.2 inches in height, with a 101.4-inch wheelbase. For reference, the U.S.-spec Civic measures 184.0 inches in length, 70.9 inches in width, 55.7 inches in height, with a 107.7-inch wheelbase.
These dimensions position the Prelude as a sports coupe, ideal for navigating both the metros and winding roads. While Honda didn’t provide the dimensions of the concept vehicle, I can infer from the Japanese report that the proportions closely match those of the Prelude Concept.
Honda has the low-roof market covered with the Civic and Accord, so the Prelude doesn’t have to focus on space or practicality. It can be more about driving fun, hard acceleration, and excitement.
Interior
The concept unveiled in Los Angeles last year didn’t show its interior, but I expect it to be a modern and driver-focused cabin. I expect at least a 9-inch infotainment system that runs Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, and the latest Honda Sensing safety suite. I would also be interesting to see if Honda Racing Corporation develops post-production option packages for Prelude customers who want more from their vehicles.
Interestingly, Honda Large Project Chief Engineer, Tomoyuki Yamagami, told Carsguide at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show that the Prelude will have a second row of seats, which I think will make it more practical that the GR86, Supra, or the BRZ, the popular models in this bodystyle.
Powertrain
Under the hood, the next-gen Prelude is expected to house a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system, which is available in the CR-V and Accord. This powertrain combination is projected to deliver a combined output of 207 hp (210 PS), surpassing the output of both the Accord and Civic hybrids.
That said, Yamagami told Carsguide that it won’t be a track tool, and that to play the role of a global model, it will be built in LHD and RHD guises. And going by Best Car Web’s report of a continuously variable transmission paired to the hybrid system, I’m hoping that engineers design the CVT to be responsive and fun to use.
Release Date & Pricing
Also see: 5 minor features on the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid that you probably missed!
While Honda has said that product development of its future coupe is progressing, it has not officially announced a date for the new Prelude’s entry. However, insiders speculate its release will be around the second half of 2025, which could mean a MY2026 availability in the United States. Pricing details are also under wraps, but I expect the Prelude to be positioned as a premium sports coupe, with a starting price north of USD 35,000, sandwiching the GR86 and GR Supra.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 16 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading CEOs and vehicle developers from around the world.
