Introducing the Honda Prelude
Here comes a new model from Honda… 25 years on!
The Honda Prelude is now open for ordering, with delivery set to commence in the early parts of 2026. A revived model, the Prelude is a nameplate from Honda’s sporty-coupe past. Originally running from 1978 to 2001, it’s been re-introduced in the UK as a two-door coupe. Honda positions it as a car that blends both sporty driving, with modern electrified efficiency.
Nobody can say Honda have jumped on the bandwagon of hybrid cars, Honda has always done its own thing when it comes to engines and electrics, and now is no different.
Overview
At its core, the new Prelude is Honda’s newly revived coupe/hatchback, depending on market, that blends sporty styling with hybrid power and everyday usability. Set to return as early as March next year, the sixth generation of the Prelude uses the same hybrid set-up and basic underpinnings as the current Honda Civic. As the new Prelude is a regular hybrid, the car becomes a unique proposition due to no direct rival. As the Honda Civic Type R is set to depart, the question would be where can Honda buyers go to get a similar model that is fun to drive? Need look no further.
Key Highlights:
- It follows the long-dormant Prelude name, which ended production in 2001, after five generations.
- Designated as a “specialty sports model” by Honda, rather than a full-blown supercar or full EV.
- Uses a hybrid powertrain (gas + electric) rather than the purely internal combustion engines of earlier Preludes.
- Retains front-engine, front-wheel drive layout and sports design cues while trying to remain usable day-to-day.
Performance
Powered by the same 181bhp hybrid system found in the Honda Civic e:HEV, which combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with two electric motors. Most of the propulsion is conducted on pure power from the battery, so there’s plenty of low-down pep for the majority of buyers, and a keen response from the accelerator when exiting corners. The Prelude’s official 0-62mph time isn’t that far off its nearest rival in the BMW 220i, which sits at 7.5 seconds. Different to the Honda Civic, the new Prelude’s single-speed automatic gearbox has an S+ shift function to add an element of fun that enables the gearbox to excel through the various speeds. The Prelude works well, good enough to shift between smooth and swift. The Prelude will allow the driver an experience like no other, blending the sporty feel with the classy-coupe styling, adding in the agile performance this Honda model possesses.
Interior & Exterior
Interior - The Prelude’s interior is based on the Honda Civic’s, and that’s great for many as it feels well built and it has an easy to use and control layout that is always a plus for anybody. The main differences within the Prelude to the Civic is just where functions are placed, including the presence of the button to activate S+ mode, sportier seats and the fact the Prelude doesn’t have a honeycomb vent strip that spans the width of the Civic’s dashboard.
Exterior - The Exterior embodies its design concept, presenting a low, sharp and expansive stance that together evokes the sensation of a glider effortlessly cutting through the air. The car’s bodywork features smooth, uninterrupted surfaces with subtle, flowing lines rather than aggressive character creases, enhancing both elegance and aerodynamic efficiency. High-tech touches abound, flush-mounted door handles and a glass-printed antenna all contribute to the clean, modern roof silhouette.
Why is Honda bringing it back?
- Heritage & Brand Emotion - The original Prelude built a legacy for Honda of being forward-thinking in its day.
- Electrification Era Transition - Honda wants to signal that “joy of driving” doesn’t vanish just because we’re moving toward hybrids and electric power. The Prelude is to be a ‘prelude’ for future sports models in electrified era.
- Market Diversification - While SUVs dominate, there is still a niche for low-slung, sporty coupes. By reviving a name people recognise, Honda can tap into nostalgia and differentiate.
- Global Brand Alignment - The model lineup is evolving, the Prelude is positioned not simply as a car, but as a signalling product of Honda’s future direction.
Thus, meaning the Prelude’s return is both symbolic (heritage) and strategic electrification + fun).
What’s New & Special in the 2025 Prelude
Let’s break down the major new features and design elements:
Exterior & Styling:
- Design Concept - Called “Unlimited Glide,” Honda says the car is meant to evoke the sensation of a glider soaring through the air: elegant, smooth, low-slung.
- Shape - A low, sharp front nose, smooth side surfaces, flush door handles, roof using laser brazing for a clean finish.
- Lighting - Headlights have a wing-like motif, blue accent touches signal its hybrid nature.
Interior & Usability:
- Cabin - Emphasises dual aspects: sporty for driver, comfortable for occupant. The driver’s seat is shaped for lateral support, passenger seat more for comfort.
- Materials - Two-tone colour option, with bespoke upholstery, “Prelude” embroidered on front of passenger.
- Tech - Includes Honda’s latest driver-assist and infotainment systems, details such as flat-bottom steering wheel, digital meters specific to the model.
Performance, Powertrain & Practicality:
- Hybrid System - The 2025 Prelude uses an advanced e:HEV hybrid setup.
- Drive Modes - Gearbox simulation introduces Honda S+ mode which simulates gear shifts and adds driving engagement, even though the underlying transmission is direct drive/EV-hybrid style.
- Chassis & Suspension - Uses components inspired by sportier models to balance sportiness with usability.
- Safety/Driver-Assist - Comes with Honda SENSING suite as standard.
Where, when & how much?
In Japan, the Prelude went on sale on 5th September 2025, and is set to reach Europe and the UK in the first half of 2026. For the UK and Europe markets, it is unclear on what the exact pricing will be, but reports suggest it will slot between mainstream hybrids and high-performance models.
What to keep in mind
It’s refreshing in a market full of SUVs, a sporty 2-door coupe from Honda is unusual and appealing. With good design cues, the glide concept, flush handles, clean lines give it a strong visual appeal. Due to the Prelude’s modern technology, this model is set to be more efficient and it’ll host less of the traditional drawbacks of older sports cars. When looking at the usability though, the Prelude has liftback and adaptable cargo space, comfortable passenger side with modern interiors.
Why it might matter to you
If you’re a buyer or enthusiast in the UK, here’s why the 2025 Prelude could be interesting:
- For fans of coupes wanting something modern - If you like the styling of a coupe but want hybrid efficiency, this fits.
- For brand-loyal Honda fans or former Prelude owners - The return of a nameplate may carry emotional value.
- For tech-forward drivers - Someone who wants advanced hybrid tech and a sporty feel rather than raw brute power.
- For those wanting an alternative to the SUV/crossover wave - It offers a different shape, a different feel.
However, if you’re purely looking for maximum performance, rear-wheel drive, or manual engagement, you might find this model less satisfying than some rivals.
