Test Drive Honda Prelude Prototype: Electrified Coupé Romance

Related Vendors

FAULHABER Drive Systems

dataTec AG

Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

After 25 years of absence, Honda is bringing back the Prelude. This time as a coupé with hybrid drive and new technology that simulates the sporty character.

The Honda Prelude is back. As a symbol of affordable sports cars, the two-door coupe represented innovative details and balanced driving pleasure in the 1980s and 1990s. The sixth generation is set to continue this tradition. A sleek silhouette, compact dimensions, and relatively low weight promise dynamism for everyone.

Given the limited performance of the Honda hybrid, which has been criticized as lackluster, ambitious drivers are unlikely to experience heart-stopping moments. To compensate for the drawback of a synthetic driving feel, the Japanese aim to introduce a new transmission and shifting simulation. The S+ Shift technology simulates gear changes in the style of a dual-clutch transmission and appropriately revs up the turbocharged petrol engine. Launching in early 2026, it is expected to be priced at around 50,000 euros (approx. 59,000 USD).

In stark contrast to the Civic Type R, where elegance has been overshadowed by numerous functional wings and spoilers, the new Prelude maintains its restrained heritage and forgoes a rear spoiler and power overkill. Under the hood is the familiar 184 hp engine from the more civilian Civic e:HEV, which is designed for efficiency but not for sportiness.

Coherent Overall Package

Prelude chief developer Tomoyuki Yamagami defends the concept: "The art lies in finding the right balance for the Prelude. More power for the drivetrain through a stronger e-motor would currently primarily mean more weight, also due to larger batteries—that doesn't fit with our concept. What matters is the harmonious overall package: Balanced weight, firm suspension, paired with sporty brakes instead of pure performance figures." A fully electric or plug-in variant is also not planned in the short term, citing excessive weight.

On the track, it becomes clear: the hybrid drive is not designed for lap records. However, the 2+2-seater makes a commendable effort at sporty sprints and operates harmoniously in the process. Nevertheless, it significantly loses dynamism at higher speeds, and its top speed is just over 180 km/h (approx. 110 mph). The fully automatic transitions between the drive modes—pure electric, pure combustion, and mixed operation—are barely noticeable. With the S+ Shift activated, the Prelude delivers a surprisingly analog driving feel.

Virtual Eight-Speed Transmission

Despite electrification and the absence of a mechanical manual transmission, the system allows the driver to operate a virtual eight-speed gearbox using paddle shifters on the steering wheel. It monitors parameters such as throttle position, brake engagement, speed, road incline, and battery charge to replicate throttle response and the "kick" during gear shifts as authentically as possible. Additionally, it creates a sporty, rpm-dependent engine sound through targeted use of the combustion engine. When downshifting, it even imitates a rev-matching function ("blip"), making the driving experience feel even closer to that of a classic sports coupe.

The S+ Shift offers the driving modes "G," "Sport," and "Normal," in which the engine setup, steering, and adaptive dampers are specifically adjusted. In GT mode, the focus is on long-distance comfort with smooth engine tuning, light steering, and softer dampers. In Sport mode, responsiveness, steering, and suspension are noticeably sharpened. In Normal mode, all components are tuned for everyday use and efficiency.

Gallery

Gallery with 5 images

Modern, Driver-Oriented Ambiance

As the gear simulation significantly influences the driving experience in the Prelude, the S+ Shift controls are prominently placed in the center console. Digital instruments, a large tachometer, and a gear display when the system is activated create a modern but driver-focused atmosphere. The steering of the slightly over 1,400 kg front-wheel-drive car responds precisely to direction changes. The Prelude remains neutral in fast corners, and its low weight ensures confident agility. Thanks to its sharp brakes, the coupe remains well controllable even during sporty driving.

With the new Prelude, Honda ventures solo into an almost extinct niche, positioning the coupe as an affordable sports car for up to four people. The combination of efficient hybrid technology and sporty components delivers acceptable fuel consumption, precise handling, and a premium ambiance without the need for excessive performance figures or a design with flaps and spoilers. The trunk is, as typical for a coupe, not overly spacious but sufficient for a weekend trip.

If Honda remains down-to-earth with its pricing, the Prelude could not only delight nostalgists but also win over new fans. Its few competitors include the Toyota GR86 and the Subaru BRZ, which follow a similar concept. Meanwhile, sporty hybrid models like the Lexus LC 500h or the BMW 2 Series Coupe play in a different league both in terms of price and technology.

Smart-Factory

Access solutions for the Smart Factory - Industry 4.0