- The Honda Prelude is set to make a comeback as a hybrid coupe in 2025.
- It is anticipated that the new Prelude will not feature a manual transmission.
- The vehicle is expected to utilize the powertrain from the Civic Hybrid.
Honda announced on Tuesday that the Prelude coupe will return to the U.S. market as a hybrid by late next year. The company revealed a Prelude hybrid concept at the 2023 Tokyo auto show and later confirmed a production version for Europe, while remaining silent about similar intentions for the U.S. However, Honda's renewal of the U.S. trademark for the Prelude name in 2023 suggested that the hybrid coupe would also be available in this market.
Originally launched in Japan in November 1978, the Prelude was one of Honda's longest-lasting nameplates, with production concluding in 2002 after five generations. Throughout its history, the Prelude typically featured more appealing bodywork that concealed the mechanical parts from more conventional Honda models, but it never offered a hybrid powertrain.
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| Honda Prelude Concept |
Honda has not provided detailed information about its new hybrid powertrain, but it has mentioned the introduction of a new Honda S Shift+ drive mode. This mode enhances the Linear Shift Control found in the Civic Hybrid, aiming to create a more engaging driving experience. Linear Shift Control is designed to mimic the sensation of a traditional transmission shifting gears within Honda's two-motor hybrid system, which does not have a conventional transmission.
It appears that simulated shifts will be the extent of the features offered. Despite the sporty legacy of previous Preludes, Honda has confirmed that this hybrid model will not include a manual transmission. This is a departure from the original hybrid coupe, the Insight, which was Honda's first production hybrid and was released in the U.S. 25 years ago, just ahead of the Toyota Prius.
Currently, hybrids constitute a significant share of sales for many of Honda's best-selling models. Honda reports that hybrids account for 50% of Accord and CR-V sales, and it anticipates that 40% of Civic sales will also be hybrids. The company has experimented with hybrid versions of its classic models, as seen with the last Acura NSX, but the Prelude aims to bring this concept to a broader audience.
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