The Honda Prelude is back, and it’s ready to steal hearts again! After a 24-year break, this iconic two-door coupe returns in late 2025 as a 2026 model, blending sporty style with modern hybrid tech. First introduced in 1978, the Prelude won fans with its sleek looks and fun-to-drive spirit. Now, Honda is bringing it back with a fresh design, eco-friendly power, and cool features to make driving exciting. This news has car lovers buzzing, as the Prelude promises to mix nostalgia with today’s technology.
A Bold New Look
The 2025 Honda Prelude sports a stunning design that feels both modern and classic. Its low, sleek body has smooth lines, sharp LED headlights, and a connected rear lightbar that screams style. The coupe’s look nods to its past with a long hood and sloping roof, but it adds fresh touches like flush door handles and bold colors like Boost Blue Pearl and Rallye Red. It’s not just about looks—the Prelude’s aerodynamic shape helps it glide efficiently, perfect for both city streets and winding roads. Compared to rivals like the Toyota GR86, the Prelude stands out with its hybrid edge and premium vibe.
Hybrid Power with a Sporty Twist
Under the hood, the Prelude uses Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, pairing a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors. This setup, shared with the Civic and Accord hybrids, delivers around 207 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. While it’s not the most powerful coupe, it offers smooth acceleration and great fuel efficiency, likely close to the Civic Hybrid’s 50 mpg city. The Prelude’s front-wheel-drive layout keeps things lively, and it borrows suspension and Brembo brakes from the Civic Type R for sharp handling. Sadly, there’s no manual transmission, but Honda’s S+ Shift mode mimics gear changes for a fun, engaging drive.
Tech That Feels Like the Future
Inside, the Prelude feels like a high-tech cockpit. It borrows from the Civic and Acura Integra, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a digital gauge cluster, and premium materials like leather and aluminum. The cabin includes heated seats, wireless charging, and a Bose sound system for comfort and fun. Honda’s Sensing 360 safety suite adds features like adaptive cruise control and automatic braking. The S+ Shift mode, controlled by paddle shifters, adds fake gear shifts with engine sounds for extra thrill. While the back seats are tight, they fold down to expand trunk space, making the Prelude practical for a coupe.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder + two electric motors |
| Horsepower | ~207 hp |
| Torque | ~232 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT with S+ Shift mode |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy (est.) | ~50 mpg city |
| Price (est.) | $35,000–$45,000 |
A Fun Ride with a Purpose
Honda’s choice to make the Prelude a hybrid shows its commitment to green driving without losing the joy of the road. The S+ Shift feature, inspired by tech in cars like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, makes every drive feel sporty, even with a CVT transmission. The Prelude’s Type R-inspired suspension ensures it handles corners like a champ, appealing to drivers who loved the old Prelude’s nimble feel. Priced between $35,000 and $45,000, it’s a premium yet affordable option compared to the BMW 220i or Mazda MX-5 Miata. Honda’s Chief Engineer, Tomoyuki Yamagami, says the hybrid setup balances fun, efficiency, and space for four seats, making it versatile.
Ready to Hit the Road
Set to arrive in U.S. showrooms in late 2025, the Prelude is already creating excitement after debuting as a near-production concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show and Goodwood Festival of Speed. Honda’s bringing back a fan favorite to compete in a tough market, with rivals like Toyota’s upcoming Celica on the horizon. Whether you’re a longtime Prelude fan or a new driver looking for style and efficiency, this hybrid coupe promises to deliver. Get ready for a ride that’s as thrilling as it is smart!