Honda revived the Prelude nameplate for 2026 after a 24-year gap, this time as a hybrid rather than a naturally aspirated coupe. It slots between the Civic Hybrid and the Civic Type R in Honda’s lineup, built as a two-door, four-seat hatchback-bodied grand tourer rather than a strict two-plus-two.
The Prelude runs Honda’s two-motor e:HEV system: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors for 200 hp and 315 Nm of combined torque, sent to the front wheels. It has no plug, charging only through the engine and regenerative braking. Honda borrowed chassis and suspension hardware from the Civic Type R to sharpen handling, and added Honda S+ Shift, a simulated-gear feature that mimics stepped shifts and engine braking through the CVT-based hybrid transaxle.
Inside, the Prelude carries over Honda’s current digital instrument cluster and infotainment layout from the wider Civic-based lineup, with sport seats and a driver-focused cabin. EPA ratings run around 44 mpg combined.
Honda began Prelude Hybrid deliveries at US dealers in December 2025 as a 2026 model. It starts at $42,000 for the Hybrid and $42,500 for the Hybrid Two-Tone, both before destination charge.
