Header: Courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
The well-known Honda Prelude has been reintroduced as a hybrid-electric grand touring coupe, a piece of news that leaves fans excited to test the model once it becomes available. The brand-new 2026 Honda Prelude combines Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, known from the Civic hybrid models, with chassis hardware derived from the Civic Type R. The result is a car designed to be precise and fun to drive, while also being the perfect choice for everyday usability.
Technical novelties
The hybrid system pairs a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. The system’s acceleration is smooth, allowing for efficient fuel consumption without compromising power. A new feature called Honda S+ Shift simulates manual gear changes, such as virtual rev-matched downshifts, which allows for a more responsive driving experience.
Prelude will be offered in a single, fully equipped trim level. Standard features include the S+ Shift system, leather sport seats, 19-inch Berlina Black wheels, and Brembo four-piston front brake callipers. The suspension, shared with the Civic Type R, uses dual-axis struts and adaptive dampers tuned specifically for the Prelude. Drivers can select from four modes (Comfort, GT, Sport, and Individual) to adjust power, steering response, suspension, and interior display settings.
Design
The design was developed in Japan with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and clean body surfaces. This is evident in the low nose, wide stance, and “double-bubble” roof that define its profile. Other important details include flush door handles, blue brake callipers, and a flat rear edge to improve stability at higher speeds. For personalisation, five exterior colours will be available, as well as a range of outside accessories, and customers will be able to choose between a body colour or a black roof.
Inside, the Prelude features a low, open cockpit with a focus on visibility and driving comfort. The front seats use asymmetrical bolstering, which is more supportive for the driver and relaxed for the passenger, and are finished in leather with blue stitching and a houndstooth insert. The rear seats fold flat to extend the storage space accessible through the liftback. To top it all off, two interior colour options are available: blue and white or black.
Tech and details
A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in are standard, along with wireless phone integration, charging, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. Sound is managed by an 8-speaker Bose system, tuned specifically for the Prelude’s cabin layout.
Safety features include the full Honda Sensing suite, with its driver-assist systems such as collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and post-collision braking. The structure uses Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering framework and includes multiple airbags for occupant protection.
As part of Honda’s wider electrification strategy, the Prelude’s hybrid platform supports the company’s goal of making hybrid-electric vehicles the majority of its car sales. The return of the Prelude places it once again alongside the Civic and Accord, three models that have defined Honda’s passenger car range since the 1970s.
