After two years of teasers and previews, Honda has officially launched the new 2026 Prelude. The iconic sports coupe makes its return with the automaker’s latest e:HEV technology, paired with the innovative Honda S+ Shift system and is offered in a limited edition trim; Honda On.
Before diving into performance, let’s take a closer look at the design. As previously reported, the Prelude adopts a sleek “Unlimited Glide” aesthetic, inspired by the graceful lines of a glider. At the front, it features sharp L-shaped headlights integrated into a wing-shaped frame, along with a sculpted nose for a bold presence. The rear is defined by full-width taillights, while details such as flush-mounted door handles and a black chrome grille louvre complete its exterior look.
Buyers will have a choice of four exterior colours: Moonlit White Pearl (first introduced on the Acura Performance EV Concept), Meteoroid Grey Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, and Flame Red. The limited edition model gets a Moonlit White Pearl finish with a contrasting black roof.
Inside, the Prelude comes with seats that are individually designed for both the driver and passenger. According to Honda, the driver’s seat is sculpted to hold the driver securely in place, while the passenger seat is designed to balance comfort with a subtle sense of being gently enveloped.
The cabin also comes with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch Honda Connect Display with Google built-in. It offers functions such as Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play. Other features include a low and horizontally expansive line of sight, a flat-bottom steering wheel and alloy paddle shifters. Enhancing the cabin further is the new 8-speaker Bose premium sound system, which comes as standard in the car.
As mentioned above, the Prelude comes with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.0-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine and two electric motors. It has a combined output of 200 horsepower (203 PS and 149 kW). The coupe also features the Honda S+ Shift which emulates a virtual 8-speed transmission that precisely controls the engine RPM during acceleration and deceleration.
The Prelude can be driven in three modes including Sport, GT and Comfort. Additionally, there is a new feature known as Coasting Control – the first in a Honda model. This system allows the car to decelerate as if it were in neutral gear. Furthermore, drivers can also customise the feel of the car through the Individual mode that allows adjustments to the powertrain, steering, suspension, meter display, engine sound, and adaptive cruise control.
As for safety, as usual the car is equipped with Honda Sensing. It has a range of features starting from Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Rear Collision Mitigation Throttle Control, Low Speed Brake Function, Cross Traffic Monitor, Parking Sensor System, Unintended Acceleration Mitigation and many more.
In Japan, the new prelude is priced at JPY6.179 million (~RM176,590) for the standard trim, while the Limited-Edition Honda On model is priced at JPY6.48 million (~RM185,193). As of now, the car is available in its native country and North America. However, with it displayed during KLIMS 2024 and previewed recently at GIIAS, there’s a chance it might head to the ASEAN market soon.
