Honda Resurrects the Prelude: A Hybrid Future Awaits
Honda has officially announced the return of the beloved Prelude as a modern hybrid coupe, marking a significant revival of the iconic nameplate that was first introduced in 1978. While the new Prelude has currently been confirmed only for the European market, tantalizing signs suggest it may also make its way to the U.S.
Honda Prelude Concept
First unveiled as a concept model at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, the new Prelude captivated audiences with its sleek design and futuristic aesthetics. The exterior of the concept appears remarkably production-ready, although Honda has remained tight-lipped about the car’s interior features, opting for dark-tinted windows that obscure the view inside.
The upcoming Prelude is expected to draw heavily from the architecture and powertrain of the latest Civic Hybrid. The hybrid system promises a balanced amalgamation of driving dynamics and fuel economy, aligning with Honda’s commitment to providing "driving fun with a perfect balance of driving dynamics and fuel economy." However, exact details regarding the powertrain remain under wraps. The 2025 Civic Hybrid, which has been lauded for its performance, does not come with a manual transmission, leaving Prelude enthusiasts to wonder if a #GiveAShift feature will be part of the offering.
Honda Prelude Concept
Historically, the Prelude was celebrated as a sporty front-wheel-drive coupe, borrowing mechanical components from mainstream Honda models while featuring distinctive, sleek bodywork. The popular nameplate saw its last production run in 2002, concluding after five generations.
Recently, the Prelude concept was also showcased at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, drawing significant attention. With Honda renewing the Prelude trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on August 15, 2023, the car’s return to American roads seems increasingly plausible.
The Prelude Concept, initially revealed in a pristine white, has since been repainted in striking red and is scheduled to make an appearance at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed.
As Honda remains cautiously optimistic about the Prelude’s impact and potential market, fans and automotive enthusiasts alike eagerly await more details about this electrifying hybrid coupe. Whether it will capture the essence of its predecessors while paving a new pathway for Honda’s hybrid future remains to be seen, but the excitement surrounding its revival is palpable.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Prelude as Honda reveals more in the lead-up to its anticipated release.
