It’s been 22 years since you could buy a new Honda Prelude in America, so if you’ve been hankering for a new one, I have some good news: Only one more year to go. That’s right, the hybrid Honda Prelude is officially set to roll into American showrooms by the end of 2025, so if you’re the type to budget for Christmas gifts super early, you’re going to have a whole year to gift yourself a downpayment on one of these coupes.
It’s hard to believe that more than a year has passed since the Honda Prelude Concept debuted at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, but not only does time fly, gorgeous cars have a habit of sticking in our memories. Not only was this the absolute highlight of its inaugural auto show, it also lit up Los Angeles, where a peek around the concept revealed more than a few seemingly production-ready touches. It still appeared to effectively be a rolling concept car without a real powertrain, but from the wiper transmission to the weatherstripping, Honda’s revived coupe seemed to be no flight of fancy.
Indeed, with an on-sale date of late 2025 and a debut date of autumn 2023, it’s likely the Prelude concept was unveiled after an exterior design freeze for the production car was put in place. Considering the development timeline for most new cars is at least three years long, don’t be surprised the Prelude you can buy looks a whole lot like this. But what’ll it be like underneath?
Well, the new Prelude has been confirmed to feature Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, meaning it’ll likely be front-wheel-drive and possibly similar to the 200-horsepower two-liter four-cylinder hybrid system in the Civic. For what it’s worth, Car And Driver clocked zero-to-60 mph in 6.2 seconds from the new Civic hybrid, and that sort of acceleration sounds perfectly swift enough for a sporty compact coupe like the Prelude. If it lands anywhere in that ballpark, I’ll be happy.
Unfortunately, rumours of the new Prelude being equipped with a manual transmission seem false, but there’s an interesting consolation prize here — something Honda calls “S+ Shift”, which, in incoherent marketing-speak, is “an innovative new drive mode that further advances Linear Shift Control to deliver maximum levels of driver engagement.” That doesn’t say anything about what it actually is, but the European press release for the Honda ZR-V might offer a clue. It states that “Linear shift control correlates engine sound to engine acceleration G for a more reassuring acceleration feel,” which suggests that this new drive mode appearing on the Prelude could simulate shifts and engine noise, much like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. We’ll just have to wait and see.
The new Prelude likely won’t be the high-revving stick-shift coupe diehards craved, but those days have been over for a while. For empty-nesters looking for a dashing compact coupe, grown-up tuners looking to leave their B-swapped Civics in their garages on the weekdays to slog through city traffic in something modern and conveniently automatic, and young professionals looking to buy something sensible but sexy, this should hit the nail on the head provided Honda doesn’t go wild on pricing.
Still, with an on-sale date by the end of 2025, expect all to be revealed in the next 12 months or so. Needless to say, we’ll be watching the new Prelude like a hawk. It’s about time sporty compact liftback coupes made a comeback, pretty soon it’ll be on buyers to respond.
(Photo credits: Honda)
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This thing needs 40-50% more power to be cool. Why would I purchase this over an Elantra N, Civic SI/R, or GR Corolla if I’m an enthusiast? I don’t mind the hybrid drivetrain; it just doesn’t have enough power to be competitive by modern standards.
We need a type R prelude. And while Honda’s at it, let’s bring back the Honda Legend.
Here’s the translation of the transcript provided:
Honda Prelude Prototype Test Drive by Manabu Kawaguchi (Love Cars TV)
Speaker 1:
Welcome to Love Cars TV with Manabu Kawaguchi. Today, I’m excited to test drive Honda’s new Prelude prototype. You can tell at a glance that it’s the real deal from the way it’s outfitted here. Before driving it, I’d like to take a closer look at the details.
First, check out the nose. The height is just a bit above my knee, giving it a very low stance. Although it’s camouflaged, the general shape was already revealed at the Japan Mobility Show. You can see that the front is low and wide, with the fenders flared, giving it a bold and wide appearance when viewed head-on. The sharp openings and sculpted front are also notable features.
When viewed from the side, the silhouette of the car really stands out. As seen at the Japan Mobility Show, the car’s highest point is located at the front, flowing smoothly toward the rear in a coupe-like style. The roofline, sloping elegantly from the peak to the rear, creates a sleek and sophisticated design.
Even though it’s a front-wheel-drive car with a short premium length, the flowing roofline gives it a dynamic and stylish profile. Moving to the rear, from a three-quarter angle, the tapered rear pillar and the flared rear fenders create a muscular impression. The rear’s broad shoulder design seamlessly integrates with the tail lights, forming a cohesive and striking design.
The rear window is a glass hatch, which gives it a practical yet sporty feel. The tires equipped are Continental PremiumContact 6, sized 235/40 R19, with matching rear sizes. The wheels feature a gloss black finish with a sporty spoke design. Looking closer at the brakes, you can spot Brembo branding, adding to the performance-oriented aesthetic.
The side profile highlights complex door shapes, with the side skirts standing out prominently. The pop-up door handles add a touch of modernity. Opening the door reveals the interior for the first time, though parts are still camouflaged. The sports seats feature a likely embossed Prelude logo on the headrests, with a one-piece design and blue and gray stitching. The perforated center section even gives a subtle checkered pattern. This may suggest ventilated seats.
The red exterior color visible through the door frame emphasizes its sporty coupe design. Inside, the driver faces a 12.3-inch full-color digital display with a tachometer. The steering wheel also features blue cross-stitching, adding to the premium feel. While the central monitor is covered, it resembles the Civic’s layout. The electronic shifter is new, with drive modes and an “S+” button prominently placed, hinting at a sportier performance.
The rear seats and trunk space are also visible, suggesting the car is both sporty and practical.
Now, let’s move on to the test drive. Before driving the Prelude, I’ll use the Civic as a reference point, as it shares the same platform and hybrid system. The Civic’s platform and suspension have been praised for their balance of comfort and performance, so I’m curious to see how the Prelude improves upon this foundation.
Driving the Civic HEV reinforces its excellent electric motor feel, quietness, and balance. The HEV system has improved significantly over the years, delivering a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience. The current Civic HEV already feels refined, so I expect the Prelude to take this even further.
Now, on to the Prelude.
In the Prelude, Honda’s “ES+ Shift” system stands out. This control system differentiates it from the Civic, even though the underlying hybrid system is similar. The suspension has also been tuned for a sportier feel. The prototype features a 4th-generation hybrid system as seen in the Accord, but with unique tuning.
During acceleration, the ES+ system delivers a noticeable shift shock, enhancing the sporty driving experience. The sound is also more engaging, with simulated downshift and acceleration sounds that create a sense of connection with the car. The sporty suspension feels responsive and refined, managing to balance sharpness with comfort.
In sport mode, the ES+ system emphasizes performance further, with sharper shift shocks and enhanced engine sound. The Prelude’s chassis offers a premium and sporty feel, giving the impression of a car in a higher class than the Civic. The balance between the coupe’s elegance and sporty driving dynamics is remarkable, making it an exciting and refined vehicle.
Honda’s attention to detail, from the tactile driving feel to the refined interior and exterior design, shows their commitment to creating a sports coupe that is both functional and thrilling.
Let me know if you’d like a summary or further details!
On one of the onscreen text that youtube doesn’t translate, they say there are 8 fake gear ratios also.
This transcript is a detailed review and test drive of the new Honda Prelude prototype by the Japanese automotive journalist 河口まなぶ (Manabu Kawaguchi). Below is a summary of the key points discussed:
Design Highlights
1. Low and Wide Stance:
• The nose is positioned low, enhancing its aggressive and sporty appearance.
• The front fenders are flared, creating a wide, muscular look.
• The roofline elegantly slopes downward, giving the coupe a sleek and dynamic profile.
2. Rear Design:
• The rear fenders are sculpted to appear wider and more prominent.
• A continuous tail light design emphasizes the width of the car.
• The rear features a glass hatch, adding to its functionality.
3. Wheels and Brakes:
• Equipped with 19-inch Continental PremiumContact 6 tires.
• Features Brembo brakes for enhanced stopping power, visible through the gloss-black spoked wheels.
4. Interior Design:
• Sport seats with a mix of blue and gray stitching and perforated patterns.
• A 12.3-inch full-color digital instrument cluster.
• Pop-up door handles and a sporty, high-quality cabin finish.
Performance and Driving Experience
1. Platform and Engine:
• Based on the Civic platform with enhanced sporty tuning.
• Utilizes Honda’s 4th-generation HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) system, paired with the new “ES Plus Shift” for dynamic control.
2. Driving Impressions:
• The Prelude’s suspension setup is tuned for sportiness while maintaining a premium ride quality.
• The ES Plus system provides noticeable acceleration and downshift shocks for a more engaging driving feel.
• Engine sound and performance mimic traditional sporty gasoline engines despite being hybrid-driven.
3. Handling and Comfort:
• Excellent balance between sporty handling and ride comfort.
• Precise steering and a feeling of being connected to the car’s dynamics.
• Even with three passengers, the car retained its sporty character.
Conclusion
The new Prelude prototype successfully combines sporty styling, engaging driving dynamics, and modern hybrid technology. It preserves the classic coupe’s elegance while incorporating advanced features that cater to modern driving preferences. The ES Plus system, in particular, adds a unique level of excitement to the hybrid powertrain. This prototype is a promising return for the Prelude nameplate.
I assume the market for this is boomers who owned a Prelude back in the 90s and think it would make a stylish retirement community cruiser now? Older millenials who wanted one when they were new but couldn’t afford one and settled for a clapped out ’80s Prelude and now they’re getting a second chance? Maybe I’m jaded bc I don’t particularly love coupes but I’m not seeing this being a big success, hope Honda has realistic expectations.
Yeah, seems to me like this is just going to cannibalize Civic coupe sales, rather than poach BRZ/GR86 sales, which are of course already pretty minimal.
Seeing as I paid less for my GR86 than Honda wanted for the most basic manual hatch Civic before factoring their dealers, I’m sure this will be either an overpriced and bland alternative to a GRZ or less practical alternative to a Prius. I prefer 2 doors, like hybrids (if i can’t have a manual), and I don’t mind FWD, but I’d have little interest if I was looking for a car unless it was available around $30k or less. Then again, take the twins out of the picture and I don’t know what the hell other new car I’d have interest in at just about any price, so maybe this would be considered. Oh, Lotus Emira-—there’s something.
I’ve owned several Preludes back in that day and this is NOT a Prelude no matter what they call it.
Dunno, I remember everyone (read: dweebs on honda-tech) back then thinking the prelude was to big/heavy/soft/expensive and wondering why would you get one of them rather than something properly sporty. You know, a *real* sports car, like a civic or an integra…
The reason I loved the earlier preludes (I had 1st, 2nd and 3rd gen Preludes) is that a) they were bulletproof, never broke down, b) they were different, and c) in Australia back in the day they were chick magnets, low, sunroof and pop up headlights reminded the ladies of what was going to pop up later. I shit you not, down under they pulled chicks for this yuppie like nobody’s business.
Should we call it a Civilude instead? Or maybe a Prelivic?
I’ve said it before and will say it again, Honda is going to miss out on a lot of nostalgia dollars by not making a ICE+manual version. It should mimic the current civic lineup minus the base model with a Si (manual+auto option from the Integra), Type SH (Super Hybrid/auto only that makes ~20 more HP than the Accord), and a Type R (20 more HP than the CTR).
This should be the test bed or some might say prelude to the next generation of Honda efficiency and power.
As it’s currently setup it’s going to flop just like the CR-Z did at missing the mark in every category.
Got excited when I saw the headline, but became increasingly less so as I read. FWD, no manual, a sound system to make you think you’re going faster. For me, that all adds up to a big bleah. The car does look very nice, though, and is pretty much guaranteed to be very reliable.
This is a Civic coupe in everything but name. I just don’t see the point. Without a bespoke powertrain or chassis you might as well just buy a Civic hybrid or an Si.
Probably shouldn’t have included the press picture of the new Prelude next to a 1st gen. The 1st gen is more desirable to me in almost every way, over the new one. (Though, I think 4th gen was peak Prelude.)
My two kids might just have to get stuffed into the backseat of one of these occasionally because I absolutely love this. Helps that they’re showing it off in my absolute favorite color.
My wife now drives a minivan, anyway. So, it’s not like I need to drive a dedicated family hauler myself, right? Right?
Dude, I was all set to finally sell my 6-speed ‘06 TSX and get into something properly quick with a stick, but my wife poured a bucket of cold water on that. “I can’t drive stick! You should get something we can both drive.” After suggesting yet again that she should learn to drive manual and that I wasn’t going to water down my driving experience I just said “F* it. I’ll just keep the Acura forever.” Not the worst fate for me, but I did want to just try something different. Oh well! I’ll take that old TSX to the grave!
Would be a lot cooler if RWD. Electric motors should be easier to package RWD.
Okay, so, some auto journalists in Japan were able to take a closer look at a prototype, the video is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W2tVda-rMg&t=186s&ab_channel=LOVECARS%21TV%21
I don’t speak Japanese, but here’s what I’ve seen in the video, because I’m a nerd:
They may have talked about suspension tuning and stuff, too, IDK.
Why is Honda photoshopping their badge onto a 2025 Toyota Solara?
I’m still not seeing a clear answer. Will this be a hatchback/liftback or will it have a mail slot trunk? A proper hatchback would make this a contender for me. I’d prefer proper door handles, maybe those will come. I could live with the eCVT, though I don’t care for the fake effects and would still prefer a third pedal. That aside, I pretty much fit the target buyer description. A right sized, grown up efficient vehicle is already what I’m looking for in a couple years when what I have is finally spent. I hope the price is reasonable too, but I suspect it probably will be.
It will be a liftback, based on a recent prototype drive in Japan. That video also confirmed that the door handles are mechanical flush-mount, not electronic:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W2tVda-rMg&t=186s&ab_channel=LOVECARS%21TV%21
If anything good has come with the proliferation of SUVs it’s that there are fewer mailslots in the back of vehicles – and, perhaps, a better acceptance of liftbacks & hatches amongst Americans.
Maybe we can have the WRX hatch, back.