Honda’s New Prelude
Signals a Revival After 25 Years
What Cutting-Edge Tech Will It Bring?
Honda is attracting attention worldwide by announcing the new 2-door coupe model, Prelude, which has been revived for the first time in about 25 years. This model is known to inherit the Honda brand’s sports car tradition while incorporating modern electrification technology and is scheduled to be officially launched in 2025.
Honda had already announced a full-fledged revival by unveiling the Prelude concept car for the first time in the world at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. At the time, Honda President Toshihiro Mibe said, “The Prelude is a model that will continue Honda’s sports car spirit in the era of full-scale electrification.” Look at Honda’s new Prelude, which is receiving so much attention.
Honda’s Sports Car Legacy and the Prelude’s Comeback
The Honda Prelude first appeared in November 1978 as a sporty two-door fixed coupe model. It evolved into the second generation in 1982, the third in 1987, the fourth in 1991, and the fifth in 1996. Sales ended five years later in 2001, ending a history of approximately 23 years.
The signal for the revival of the Prelude, which had been on hiatus for a long time, was fired in 2023. The Prelude reappeared as a concept car. Honda attracted global attention by presenting the concept car through continuous exhibitions and events. In December, Honda announced the release of a customized model of the Prelude prototype.
Honda’s New Prelude: Key Tech and Design Highlights
Honda’s latest hybrid technology, Honda S+ Shift, will be introduced in the new Prelude to emphasize driving pleasure. The S+ mode has been added to the button-type gear lever to provide a unique driving experience linked to three modes (Comfort, GT, and Sports).
The exterior design emphasizes a modern appeal, using sophisticated blue colors while maintaining a sporty feel. Although in the early concept stage, the interior features a digital instrument panel and sporty seat design that differentiate it from existing Honda vehicles.
Performance, Space, and Practicality: The All-in-One Specialty Coupe
In the case of the new Prelude, a structure combining the Civic e:HEV unit with the Civic Type R chassis was adopted. Accordingly, it was evaluated as having simultaneously implemented agile response and refined driving performance while driving.
Despite being a two-door coupe, the rear seat space is spacious enough for an adult male, increasing its practicality. The new Prelude, a modern reinterpretation of Honda’s sports spirit, is expected to receive a hot response from the market after its launch in 2025.
