When Honda first revealed the Prelude concept, the world pondered whether Honda would make a production version of the model. The Prelude was last seen in the U.S. in the 1990s with the model rapidly becoming an icon in the Japanese coupe market before the model was axed due to changing market conditions. However, Honda has confirmed that the Prelude is not only making its return to production after a 25-year wait, but that it’s also making its way into the U.S.
A Prelude to big things
Honda’s celebratory release didn’t reveal any images of the production version with the exception being a lone image of the drive mode selector. The production version of the Prelude should be largely identical to the concept and could be built on the same platform as the Civic Hybrid. The Prelude is also hoping to expand on the Integra’s rapid sales success with the Integra name proving to be a rapid generator of sales for the company.
Honda has stated that the Prelude will not be the sportiest member of the family but that’s fine with us since the appearance of the two-door would help add some more flair to the company’s hybrid lineup. The company also confirmed that the Prelude will debut a new feature called “S+ Shift” which allows one of the two electric motors to drive the wheels most of the time. A separate Linear Shift Control system is also included and the setup is supposed to eliminate the rubber band feel often seen in other CVTs.
When can I buy one?
There’s still not alot that’s known about the reborn Prelude including pricing and when the model will formally make its way to dealerships. However, a separate announcement from the North American International Auto Show confirmed Honda will be attending the 2025 iteration of the show which could indicate that the Prelude might make its debut in the Motor City.
Look for pricing to reflect the Prelude’s role as an affordable hybrid model with the stylish coupe potentially being in the $30,000 range when the model eventually makes its way to show rooms.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.