Details about the 2026 Honda Prelude continue to trickle out. This time, it’s about what’s under that sexy sheetmetal. Honda confirmed that the Prelude uses the same dual-axis front suspension design as the Civic Type R. This marks the first time a Honda without a Type R badge makes use of this setup. Additionally, the Prelude also shares the same Brembo front brakes and wide front and rear tracks as Honda’s legendary hot hatch. Both the front suspension and brakes receive tuning specific to the Prelude, Honda says. The automaker also noted that this setup aims to deliver a sporty driving experience while keeping the ride comfortable.
Unlike the Civic Type R, Honda calls the Prelude a grand touring sports coupe. That means expect a car that veers more towards all-around balanced rather than a track monster. The 2026 Honda Prelude also debuts the new S+ Shift system, which aims to enhance driving fun without hurting daily drivability. Expect the car to also include adaptive dampers just like the Civic Type R and the Acura Integra Type S.
Powering the Prelude is Honda’s familiar two-motor hybrid system. This powertrain pairs a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. In most driving situations, it relies on the electric motors, using the engine mainly as a generator to create electricity. At highway speeds, a clutch allows the engine to power the wheels when needed.
Honda remains tight-lipped regarding the Prelude’s power output, but expect it to remain in the ballpark of current vehicles. In the Civic Hybrid, the two-motor hybrid system makes 200 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the same application in the CR-V and Accord generates 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. Expect the Prelude’s output to land somewhere in that ballpark.
Source: Honda