Honda unveiled the interior of the upcoming hybrid Prelude, signaling the return of an iconic sports car. The Prelude was first launched in 1978 and developed a strong following among younger drivers before being discontinued in 2001. Now, 25 years later, it is returning with a hybrid powertrain and a modernized design.
Recently, Honda released images of the Prelude’s prototype interior through its official channels. This vehicle is currently being developed as a 2026 model, with plans to launch it in Japan, Europe, and North America. Meanwhile, consumers are expressing excitement.
Driver-Centered Cabin Blends Classic and Modern Elements
The Prelude’s interior captures Honda’s emphasis on driving immersion. The front features a digital cluster and a floating infotainment display, while a drive mode selector button replaces the traditional gear lever on the center console. Notably, the S+ mode enhances driving immersion through virtual shifting and sound tuning, earning the nickname ‘digital performance gear’ as it can replace an actual manual transmission.
The seat design is also impressive. The headrests feature Prelude lettering, and a mix of houndstooth fabric and leather evokes a classic sports car feel. The driver’s seat offers enhanced lateral support, while the passenger seat emphasizes comfort.
The interior color scheme combines white and navy in a two-tone design, with color accents on the door panels, dashboard, and the top of the console, creating a stylish atmosphere. This design satisfies Honda’s youthful sensibility and nostalgia for 90s coupes.
A True Sports Coupe: Will It Continue the Legacy?
The Prelude is Honda’s iconic two-door sports coupe, produced from 1978 to 2001 across five generations. It gained popularity for its front-wheel drive, sporty feel, and sleek design. The new model will be built on a platform shared with the Honda Civic and Integra and will feature a 2.0-liter hybrid powertrain.
The new Prelude retains the traditional sports car shape while positioning itself as a smart coupe that integrates practicality and technology. It features an electric motor-based virtual gear system, chassis tuning for GT performance, and a hatchback-style trunk design, making it a highly usable sports car for everyday life.
