The 2026 Honda Prelude has arrived. As expected, it’s a hybrid. Power comes from Honda’s familiar dual-motor hybrid system. It features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine coupled to two electric motors, making 200 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque combined. That output mirrors the Civic Hybrid’s, but Honda says this gives the car “quick and responsive acceleration.” Expect the Prelude to offer exceptional fuel economy, especially with the Civic’s combined EPA ratings of up to 49 mpg.
Honda also debuts the S+ Shift, which will eventually find its way to more vehicles. This system simulates shifts and rev-matched downshifts through precise coordination between the engine, the high-powered electric motor, and paddle shifters. Additionally, S+ Shift also enhances the engine sounds. This should help give the Prelude a more conventional feel despite not having a transmission at all.
The Prelude also marks the first use of Honda’s high-performance chassis hardware outside of the Civic Type R. Wider front and rear tracks, the dual-axis front suspension, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes all come standard. Additionally, Honda tuned those components specifically for the Prelude. Plus, four drive modes, Comfort, GT, Sport, and Individual, give drivers additional options in how the car drives. Summer performance tires are also available as an option.
2026 Honda Prelude: Sleek and Svelte
In terms of exterior style, the 2026 Prelude carries over nearly everything except for the concept’s styling flourishes. As with most modern Hondas, it’s clean, sophisticated, and will age well. Together with a low nose, wedge-like shape, and wide stance, the Prelude looks like a proper GT, only in a smaller footprint. A double bubble roof, flared fenders further, and blue exterior accents enhance the Prelude’s aggressive looks. Moreover, a large front under spoiler and a flat surface along the edge of the rear liftgate help improve front and rear downforce for added stability.
In terms of exterior colors, Honda offers five: Meteorite Gray, Crystal Black Pearl, Rallye Red, Boost Blue Pearl, and Winter Front Pearl. That last one also allows drivers to choose from a body colored or a black roof. Additionally, drivers can further customize their Prelude with accessories like a black decklid spoiler, emblems, and side mirror caps.
Stepping inside, the Prelude’s cabin screams premium. Standard heated front sport seats with blue contrast stitching and a houndstooth pattern add to its upscale vibe. The embossed Prelude logo and available two-tone blue and white scheme elevate that feel even more. Meanwhile, the flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters brings a sporty style to the cabin. Finally, the Prelude’s standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats add extra practicality under the hatch.
Familiar Honda Tech
The 2026 Honda Prelude comes packing the brand’s latest tech. That means a standard 9-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster. An 8-speaker Bose audio system, wireless charging, and the Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance features also come standard.
Like the Civic Type R, Honda only offers the Prelude in a single well-equipped trim. It arrives at dealers this fall. While its power output mirrors the Civic Hybrid, the Prelude comes with a chassis sourced from a legendary hot hatch. However, its hybrid powertrain isn’t what enthusiasts want. It’ll be interesting to see how this reborn sports coupe does in the market. The big question now is price because that can make or break the return of this iconic Honda nameplate.
Source: Honda
