Honda Reveals the 2026 Prelude

Honda Reveals the 2026 Prelude

Honda fans, rejoice—an icon has returned. The highly anticipated 2026 Honda Prelude has officially made its North American debut, reviving one of the brand’s most legendary nameplates. And this time, it’s not just about nostalgia—the new Prelude represents the next chapter in Honda vehicles with a cutting-edge hybrid-electric powertrain, bold styling, and a performance-focused chassis borrowed from the Civic Type R. 

  

Set to arrive at dealerships in late fall 2025, the all-new Honda Prelude is a sleek, two-door hybrid sports coupe engineered for drivers who crave excitement without sacrificing efficiency. 

  

A Modern Take on Performance: Honda’s First Hybrid Prelude 

  

The 2026 Honda Prelude is the first electrified version of the classic coupe, pairing Honda’s award-winning two-motor hybrid-electric system with a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine. This setup delivers: 

  

  • 200 horsepower 
  • 232 lb-ft of torque 
  • Quick acceleration and dynamic handling 

  

For those wondering if the new Honda Prelude hybrid sacrifices thrills for efficiency—the answer is a firm no. Honda has redefined what a hybrid sports car can be. 

  

Performance Built on Type R DNA 

  

What sets the Prelude apart from other hybrid Honda vehicles is its use of high-performance components from the Civic Type R, including: 

  

  • Dual-axis strut front suspension 
  • Adaptive Dampers uniquely tuned for the Prelude 
  • Brembo™ 4-piston aluminum front calipers in exclusive Prelude Blue 
  • 13.8″ front rotors and 12.0″ rears for exceptional braking power 

  

Combined with Honda’s new S+ Shift system, which simulates a manual transmission with rev-matched downshifts and gear-holding features, the Prelude offers the most engaging hybrid driving experience in Honda’s lineup. 

  

Introducing Honda S+ Shift: A New Way to Drive 

  

Debuting in the 2026 Prelude, Honda S+ Shift is a new drive mode designed to simulate the feel of a performance transmission. With: 

  

  • Simulated gear shifts 
  • Downshift “blips” 
  • Enhanced engine sounds 

  

…it brings driver engagement to the forefront of the hybrid experience. It’s also the beginning of a broader rollout—Honda plans to feature S+ Shift in more hybrid-electric models in the future. 

  

Tech-Savvy and Driver-Focused Interior 

  

Inside, the 2026 Prelude offers a modern, high-tech cabin that’s all about the driver: 

  

  • 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster 
  • 9-inch HD touchscreen with Google built-in 
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto™ 
  • Bose Centerpoint premium audio system 
  • Wireless phone charger 
  • WiFi hotspot 

  

With its asymmetrical bolstered seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, and premium houndstooth leather trim, the Prelude blends sports car flair with grand touring comfort. 

  

Sophisticated Meets Sporty 

  

The new Honda Prelude combines sleek aerodynamics with muscular styling: 

  

  • Low-slung front fascia 
  • Wide, aggressive stance 
  • “Double-bubble” roof design 
  • Berlina Black 19-inch wheels 
  • Full-width LED taillights and flush door handles 

  

Available in five striking colors—including the all-new Winter Frost Pearl—the Prelude looks just as fast as it drives. 

  

Practicality Meets Performance 

  

Though a coupe, the Prelude doesn’t skimp on everyday usability: 

  

  • 2+2 seating with generous rear legroom (32.0 inches) 
  • 60/40 split fold-down rear seats 
  • Hatch-style liftback for expanded cargo space 

  

From weekend road trips to spirited Sunday drives, the Prelude balances form and function in a way few sports coupes can. 

  

Safety and Driver Assistance 

  

Like all modern Honda vehicles, the new Prelude comes standard with the Honda Sensing® suite, featuring: 

  

  • Collision Mitigation Braking 
  • Lane Keeping Assist 
  • Adaptive Cruise Control 
  • Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert 
  • Post-Collision Braking 

  

One Well-Equipped Trim, No Compromises 

  

The Prelude will launch in a single, fully-loaded trim, making it easier for enthusiasts to get all the features without navigating multiple options or upgrade packages. 

  

When Is the 2026 Honda Prelude Coming Out? 

  

The 2026 Honda Prelude release date is set for late fall 2025, with availability at Honda dealerships across the U.S. The pricing has not been officially announced, but given its positioning as a performance hybrid coupe, expect a starting MSRP in the low-to-mid $30,000s. 

Diehl Honda of Massillon
September 4, 2025
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