After 24 years, the Honda Prelude has returned as a hybrid sports car that emphasizes comfort over performance, aiming to be a coupe worthy of your time.
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| 2026 Honda Prelude |
The all-new Honda Prelude starts at 6,719,800 Japanese Yen, plus additional costs. This model is a three-door version of the Civic e:HEV FL4 and aims to revive the front-wheel-drive coupe genre, which has been largely forgotten in recent years. Currently, it is the only front-wheel-drive coupe available for purchase.
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| 2026 Honda Prelude |
The sixth-generation Prelude first appeared in concept form at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show (formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show). Nearly every detail from its concept version has been retained, including the high-tech Honda lettering that was first seen on the now-defunct Honda e, as well as the nostalgic Prelude badge taken from the fourth-generation model produced between 1991 and 1996. One notable aspect of this new Prelude is its hammerhead front design, which has been influenced by designs from Toyota or Ferrari.
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| 2026 Honda Prelude interior |
The interior of the sixth-generation Prelude closely resembles that of modern Hondas. While it is technically a 2+2 seater, the rear seats are impractical for passengers, as it's nearly impossible to fit comfortably in the back. As a result, the only practical uses for these rear seats are to store your belongings, transport a dog, or secure a baby seat if you have an infant. For a real kicker, the rear seats that are deemed impossible for human comfort can be folded down to accommodate two travel cases or two golf bags.
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| 2026 Honda Prelude |
The Honda Prelude BF1 uses a similar 2.0L SPORTS e:HEV hybrid powertrain from today's Civic. With the dual motor setup joining forces with the 2.0L Atkinson cycle direct injection engine, it produces a combined 203PS of power and 315Nm of torque. That's more than what you get from a Civic Hybrid.
Yes, it's mated only to a CVT gearbox, boo, but Honda provided the Prelude's CVT gearbox with the S+ Shift system that activates its 8-speed Manual Mode operated via paddle shifters. When enjoyed with either GT or Sport Mode, the Prelude acts like a performative male that likes to show off. Not performance, performative like a performative man.
To add some performative character to the Prelude, it features dynamics inspired by the FL5 Civic Type R. The vehicle includes dual-axis strut front suspension, specially designed adaptive dampers, and blue Brembo four-piston aluminum front calipers. Need to say more, performative speedo boys?
The Honda Prelude BF1 comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of ADAS such as Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation incorporating Lane Departure Warning, Driver Attention Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Blind Spot Information System, Auto High-Beam Headlights, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist System.
While the sixth-generation Honda Prelude may not be a worthy successor to its predecessors or the cult classic CR-Z, it aims to be a performative hybrid sports car that emphasizes an engaging driving experience, catering to drivers who appreciate a relaxed yet spirited approach on the road.
Available Colors: Moonlit White Pearl, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, and Flame Red.
Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
