Honda Prelude Set for a Comeback
Next-Gen Hybrid System
6-Speed Manual Transmission Likely
Due to the decline in demand for sports cars, Honda saw sluggish sales for the Prelude in the Japanese market, leading to its discontinuation after the fifth-generation model. However, at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Honda surprised enthusiasts with the news of the Prelude’s imminent return, sparking excitement in the automotive community.
Despite being out of production for over twenty years, the Prelude—first introduced in 1978—continues attracting attention from sports car enthusiasts. The next-generation Prelude is anticipated to feature a hybrid powertrain alongside a 6-speed manual transmission, offering a blend of modern innovation and classic driving appeal.
Honda applied for a trademark following the reveal of the Prelude concept in 2023, finalizing the registration in April 2024. The concept car made a second appearance at the Goodwood Festival in England in July 2024, heightening anticipation for the Prelude’s revival. While Honda has yet to release specifics about the powertrain or other technical details, hints from the RS trims of the Accord and Civic offer some clues about what to expect.
It is widely speculated that the next-generation Prelude will adopt the same sports e-hybrid system used in the Accord. This setup includes a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder direct-injection engine and two electric motors. The hybrid system is designed to balance performance and fuel efficiency, making it an appealing option for modern sports car enthusiasts.
It shares a platform with the Civic RS and has a sporty design
The Civic RS recently introduced a six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching technology, and this setup is expected to be paired with the Accord’s hybrid powertrain in the new Prelude. While the Civic RS sports a 1.5L turbocharged engine and dynamic suspension, the Prelude is anticipated to feature a 2.0L hybrid engine, offering a more robust performance focusing on efficiency.
The new Prelude is expected to share its platform with the Civic, and much like the previous CR-Z, it will likely feature a hybrid manual transmission. Based on the concept car revealed, the design suggests a sporty and sleek aesthetic. The front end is angular and aggressive, with sharp lines and sleek, connected LED strip headlights, giving it a modern, performance-driven look.
Sleek Strip LED Headlights Set for Launch in the Second Half of 2025
The new Prelude’s headlamps are designed to be thin and horizontal, complementing the sharp, angular front lines. The bonnet’s smooth curve contrasts with the aggressive angles of the front fascia, while the large black air intakes give the front end a bold, sporty presence. A fastback profile emerges from the side, with the sharply rising A-pillar leading seamlessly to the rear trunk lid.
The bonnet is long, and the short front and rear overhangs accentuate the vehicle’s sleek side proportions. The side profile also features modern touches like flush-mounted door handles, black window trim, and a pronounced character line for added visual appeal. At the rear, a clean horizontal design dominates, with straight tail lamps and a reflector, giving the car a streamlined, modern look. The new Prelude is set for a highly anticipated launch in the second half of 2025.
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