- Honda brings back the Prelude nameplate
- Honda has confirmed the Prelude for Europe only, but all signs point to a return to the US as well
- The Prelude will be a hybrid coupe, likely adopting the powertrain of the Civic Hybrid
O Honda Prelude lives.
On Tuesday, Honda confirmed that the Prelude will return as a modern hybrid coupe. So far, the Prelude’s return has only been confirmed for Europebut there is reason to believe that the iconic name will return to the USA also.
Honda Prelude Concept
Previewed in concept form in October at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show, details are scarce at this point. The new Prelude appears to be a restyled Civic Coupe, which notably is no longer sold in the U.S.
While the exterior of the concept looks production-ready, Honda didn’t show the interior. The concept features tinted windows that can’t be easily seen through.
Honda’s parent company talks about the production car’s powertrain, but has confirmed will be a hybrid that delivers the “joy of driving through a perfect balance of driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.” Civic Hybrid 2025 just launched and is quicker and more enjoyable to drive than the base turbo-4 car. The Civic hybrid is not available with a manual transmission, and it’s unclear whether the new Prelude will offer the ability #GiveAChange.
Honda Prelude Concept
The Prelude model was launched in Japan in 1978. Historically, it was a front-wheel drive sports coupe with a sleek body, covering the mechanics of traditional models.
Honda previewed the 2023 Tokyo auto show Prelude concept in November at the 2023 Los Angeles auto show. Honda Prelude Trademark was renewed at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on August 15, 2023.
The Prelude brand was discontinued in 2022 when production ended after five generations.
The Prelude concept, which has been repainted red since the concept debuted in white, will be showcased at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed.