Honda Revives Prelude as Hybrid Coupe Ahead of Winter Release

TORRANCE, Calif. — Honda has officially revealed the 2026 Prelude, a hybrid coupe that marks the return of an iconic nameplate after 25 years. Set to hit North American showrooms before winter, the new Prelude aims to deliver a blend of sporty driving and modern technology.

The Prelude adopts a two-motor hybrid powertrain derived from the Civic Hybrid, combining a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This setup generates 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, propelling the front wheels without a traditional transmission. Instead, low-speed thrust is provided exclusively by the electric motors, and only at higher speeds does the gas engine engage.

Cyril Soliman, Honda’s spokesman, explained, “We are thrilled to bring back such an iconic nameplate. The Prelude’s return shows our commitment to exciting, fun-to-drive vehicles that help boost our hybrid-electric sales.”

The Prelude features an S+ Shift System, allowing drivers to experience simulated gear shifts through paddle shifters. This system enhances the driving experience, adding elements like rev-matched downshifts and engine sounds.

The vehicle is built on the Civic Type R’s chassis, featuring Brembo brakes and a dual-axis strut front suspension. Although some components are adjusted for comfort, Honda assures that the Prelude retains a sporty character. All-season tires are standard, with an option for summer tires available.

Despite its sporty roots, the Prelude also focuses on comfort. Honda plans to feature a driver-centric interior, adopting elements from the Civic but with upgrades such as a nine-inch touchscreen, a Bose audio system, and a unique center console design. Two-tone interior options are offered, featuring blue and white or black hues.

The Prelude introduces a hatchback design for the first time in its history, providing ample cargo space. However, the rear seating offers a modest legroom of 32 inches, which is less than the Civic Coupe but more than older Prelude models. Some challenges remain with the seating mechanism, indicating areas for potential improvement.

Pricing details have yet to be revealed, but early estimates suggest it could fall within the upper $30,000 to low $40,000 range. As Honda gears up for the Prelude’s release, enthusiasts are eager to see if this hybrid coupe will succeed in a market dominated by performance-oriented vehicles.