The all-new 2026 Honda Prelude has officially been revealed. It marks the return of a famous automotive name after more than two decades.
First revealed at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2023, Honda has spent the past two years displaying the Prelude Concept at events around the world.
However, the wait is finally over, as the production-spec sixth-generation Prelude makes its North American debut.
Going on sale later this year, Honda promises the Prelude will offer a combination of hybrid efficiency and handling inspired by the Civic Type R.
Cuts cleanly through the air
Styled by Honda in Japan, the Prelude is focused on cutting through the air cleanly. Aiding its aerodynamic design is a spoiler integrated into the rear edge of the liftgate, along with a wide front splitter.
There is also a distinctive “double-bubble” roof, as found on classic sports cars. Black 19-inch alloy wheels sit within flared fenders.
Prelude customers will be able to choose from five paint colors, including Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Rally Red, and Boost Blue Pearl. A new Winter Frost Pearl shade can be combined with a black-painted roof.
A range of accessories will also be available, with Honda’s Mugen tuning division offering a sharper look for the reborn Prelude.
Efficiency and performance together
Powering the Prelude will be Honda’s gasoline-electric hybrid engine, as found in the current Civic. This combines two electric motors with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, resulting in a total of 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque.
The new coupe marks the first use of Honda’s S+ Shift transmission. This uses steering wheel-mounted paddles to simulate the sound and feel of shifting through gear ratios.
Honda’s hardcore Civic Type R has donated its dual-axis strut front suspension setup, along with adaptive dampers and a range of selectable driving modes.
Brembo brakes are included for good measure, with two-piece 13.8-inch diameter front rotors gripped by four-piston calipers. The latter come painted in the Prelude’s signature blue.
New Prelude arrives this fall
Honda says the Prelude’s 2+2 seat cabin is “driver-focused”, including bucket-style sports seats complete with integrated head rests. There is also a flat-bottomed steering wheel wrapped in leather, plus sporty aluminum pedals.
Just one trim level will be offered for the Prelude, but standard equipment is comprehensive. It includes a 10.2-inch digital instrument display, and a 9.0-inch central touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Wireless smartphone charging, an eight-speaker Bose sound system, and a wealth of safety technology will also be part of the package.
The 2026 Prelude is expected to appear in Honda dealerships later this fall, with prices to be confirmed soon.
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