Prelude revived as a hybrid coupe

Around 46 years after its debut, Honda has officially announced the return of the Prelude as a hybrid electric-powered coupe, set for release in Europe in early 2026.

The Prelude concept was given its debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, and now its production version bucks the recent trend by other brands (*cough* Ford) of reviving a car from its past and turning it into an SUV.

Honda S+ Shift technology debut

The announcement also revealed that the production Prelude will debut Honda’s new S+ Shift technology, which the Japanese brand says will ‘further enhance the joy of driving’ by simulating the noise and feel of a quick changing automatic gearbox. The car is unlikely to have this for real though, instead pairing a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a pair of electric motors similar to the hybrid Civic. Honda says the new Prelude will “offer a compelling blend of style and sophistication alongside an efficient hybrid powertrain.”

25 years of hybrid power

The last of five generations of Prelude was seen in UK showrooms in 2001 and the announcement of its return coincides with Honda’s 25 years of hybrid performance following the Insight coupe as Europe’s first mass-produced hybrid. It now also boasts an electric range consisting of the Jazz, Civic, HR-V, ZR-V and CR-V, using a e:HEV powertrain as standard.

“An iconic nameplate”

Hans de Jaeger, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe, said: “The Honda Prelude is an iconic nameplate, and this latest model promises to build on that heritage with our trademark hybrid performance and the latest dynamic technology. All with a view to not only delivering exceptional efficiency, but also the fun-to-drive performance for which this model is known. We are excited for its arrival in Europe following a very positive reception so far.”

US fans of the Prelude won’t have to wait as long, with Honda confirming it is set to hit the market there in 2025.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Honda